Introduction
Buffalo Chicken Tenderloins
If you’re a fan of spicy flavors and easy-to-make dishes, this buffalo chicken tenderloins recipe is perfect for you. Juicy tenderloins are coated in a zesty ranch seasoning, sautéed to perfection, and tossed in a homemade buffalo sauce. This dish is great for a quick weeknight dinner or served as appetizers at parties. Pair it with celery sticks and your favorite dipping sauce for a delightful meal.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Chicken Tenderloins
2 pounds chicken tenderloins
Ranch Seasoning Mix
1 packet ranch seasoning mix
Olive Oil
1 tablespoon olive oil
Hot Sauce
½ cup hot sauce
Unsalted Butter
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 8-10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: Serves 4-6
Directions
Season the Chicken
In a large bowl, combine the chicken tenderloins with the ranch seasoning mix and olive oil. Toss until the chicken is evenly coated.
Cook the Chicken
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken tenders in a single layer. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is browned and cooked through.
Prepare the Buffalo Sauce
While the chicken is cooking, melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Once melted, stir in the hot sauce until well combined.
Combine and Serve
Once the chicken is cooked, pour the buffalo sauce over the chicken in the skillet. Toss the chicken to ensure each piece is thoroughly coated with the sauce. Serve immediately, optionally with celery sticks and ranch or blue cheese dressing on the side.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Season the Chicken:
In a large bowl, combine the chicken tenderloins with the ranch seasoning mix and olive oil. Toss until the chicken is evenly coated.
Cook the Chicken:
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken tenders in a single layer. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is browned and cooked through.
Prepare the Buffalo Sauce:
While the chicken is cooking, melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Once melted, stir in the hot sauce until well combined.
Combine and Serve:
Once the chicken is cooked, pour the buffalo sauce over the chicken in the skillet. Toss the chicken to ensure each piece is thoroughly coated with the sauce. Serve immediately, optionally with celery sticks and ranch or blue cheese dressing on the side.
Notes
Ensure the skillet is hot before adding the chicken to achieve a nice sear. Adjust the amount of hot sauce to your taste preference for spiciness. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking for better texture. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Cook techniques
Seasoning the Chicken
Combine chicken tenderloins with ranch seasoning and olive oil in a bowl. This ensures a flavorful coating that enhances the chicken’s natural taste. Toss well for even coverage.
Cooking the Chicken
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat before adding the chicken. Cooking in a single layer allows for even browning. Aim for 3-4 minutes on each side to achieve a crispy exterior while ensuring it’s cooked through.
Preparing the Buffalo Sauce
Melt unsalted butter over low heat and mix in hot sauce. This method creates a smooth, cohesive sauce that evenly coats the chicken. Stirring well ensures that the flavors blend perfectly.
Combining and Serving
After cooking, pour the buffalo sauce over the chicken and toss to coat every piece evenly. Serving immediately preserves the chicken’s crispness and flavor, making for a delicious meal.
FAQ
Can I use another type of sauce instead of hot sauce?
Yes, you can substitute with other sauces like BBQ or teriyaki, but it will change the flavor profile of the dish.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to be considered fully cooked. Cut into one tender to check that it is no longer pink inside.
Can I prepare the buffalo sauce ahead of time?
Yes, buffalo sauce can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before using it on the chicken.
What can I serve with this dish?
This chicken pairs well with celery sticks and ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping. Additionally, you can serve it with a side of rice or salad.
Can I freeze the cooked chicken?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken. Make sure it’s stored in an airtight container and consumed within 2-3 months for best quality.
Conclusion
The combination of ranch seasoning, hot sauce, and buttery goodness creates a deliciously spicy and flavorful dish. This recipe for buffalo chicken tenderloins is not only easy to prepare but also perfect for gatherings or a quick weeknight dinner. The tender chicken paired with the tangy sauce is sure to satisfy any cravings.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Buffalo Chicken Tacos
Use the cooked buffalo chicken to fill soft or hard taco shells and top with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and a drizzle of ranch dressing.
Buffalo Chicken Salad
Chop the buffalo chicken and toss it over a bed of greens with chopped veggies, avocado, and your favorite dressing for a hearty salad.
Buffalo Chicken Pizza
Spread ranch dressing on a pizza crust and top with shredded buffalo chicken, mozzarella cheese, and bake until golden. Add a sprinkle of green onions before serving.
Buffalo Chicken Quesadillas
Fill tortillas with buffalo chicken and cheese, cook on a skillet until the tortillas are crispy and the cheese is melted. Serve with sour cream or guacamole.
Buffalo Chicken Sliders
Serve the buffalo chicken on small slider buns with a slice of cheese and top with pickles for a tasty appetizer or party snack.
