There’s something undeniably satisfying about biting into a crispy chicken tender—especially when it’s been coated in tangy, spicy buffalo sauce. In a state known for its bold food culture, New Jersey native and food blogger Lisa Grant of “Jersey Girl Cooks” has delivered the ultimate crowd-pleaser: Baked Buffalo Chicken Tenders that pack all the flavor and crunch of your favorite game day snack—but without the hassle (or calories) of deep frying.
Whether you’re hosting friends for the big game, planning a family dinner with a kick, or just looking to spice up your weekly meal rotation, this recipe brings heat and heart straight from a Jersey kitchen.
Why Baked Buffalo Chicken Tenders?
While traditional chicken tenders are often deep-fried, Lisa’s baked version proves you don’t need a vat of oil to achieve that golden, crave-worthy crunch. These tenders are oven-crisped to perfection, making them a healthier yet equally delicious alternative. The secret lies in her method—combining panko breadcrumbs with a few smart cooking tricks to ensure every bite has that signature crunch and just the right amount of spice.
Perfect for both kids and spice lovers, these tenders walk the line between comfort food and flavorful indulgence. And the best part? They’re incredibly easy to make at home.
Ingredients – What You’ll Need
Here’s what goes into making Jersey Girl Cooks’ famous Baked Buffalo Chicken Tenders:
For the Chicken Tenders:
- 1 ½ lbs chicken tenders (or chicken breasts sliced into strips)
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon milk
- 1 ½ cups panko breadcrumbs
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil spray
For the Buffalo Sauce:
- ½ cup hot sauce (Frank’s RedHot is a favorite)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar
- ½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Dash of garlic powder (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep Your Station:
Set up three bowls for your breading station. One for the flour, one for the beaten eggs (mixed with milk), and one for the seasoned panko mixture (breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper).
2. Coat the Chicken:
Dip each tender first in flour, then the egg mixture, and finally in the seasoned panko breadcrumbs. Press gently so the crumbs adhere well.
3. Bake to Golden Perfection:
Place the breaded chicken tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a lightly greased wire rack. Spray the tops with olive oil spray to encourage crisping.
Bake at 425°F (220°C) for about 20–25 minutes, flipping once halfway through. They should be golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
4. Make the Buffalo Sauce:
While the tenders are baking, whisk together your hot sauce, melted butter, white vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder. Heat gently on the stovetop or microwave until warm.
5. Toss and Serve:
Once the tenders are out of the oven, place them in a large bowl and pour the warm buffalo sauce over them. Toss gently to coat.
Serving Suggestions
These Baked Buffalo Chicken Tenders are incredibly versatile. Here’s how to make the most of them:
- Game Day Favorite: Serve with celery sticks, carrot slices, and a side of blue cheese or ranch dressing.
- Buffalo Chicken Wraps: Tuck into a flour tortilla with lettuce, tomato, and a drizzle of ranch.
- Salad Topper: Add to a crisp romaine salad with crumbled blue cheese and avocado for a spicy protein boost.
- Buffalo Chicken Sliders: Place inside small buns with pickles and coleslaw for a mini sandwich sensation.
Why Jersey Loves It
In New Jersey, where bold flavors are the norm and food is all about passion, this recipe captures the essence of Garden State cooking: flavorful, unfussy, and meant to be shared. Lisa Grant’s “Jersey Girl Cooks” blog has become a local favorite for exactly this kind of recipe—one that feels both comforting and exciting.
These Baked Buffalo Chicken Tenders are the perfect representation of how a classic dish can be made better with just a few tweaks—and a whole lot of Jersey flair.
Final Bite
Whether you’re a longtime Jersey local or just someone with a love of spicy comfort food, these Baked Buffalo Chicken Tenders are a must-try. Easy to prepare, full of bold flavor, and endlessly customizable, they’re sure to become a staple in your kitchen—just like they are in Lisa’s.
Want more delicious Jersey-inspired recipes? Be sure to check out Lisa Grant’s blog at jerseygirlcooks.com for easy meals, family favorites, and plenty of local flavor straight from the Garden State.
🧂 Pro Tip: Like it extra spicy? Add a pinch of cayenne to your buffalo sauce or serve with sliced jalapeños on the side!
