Introduction
Buffalo chicken has become a beloved favorite in many households, offering a delightful mix of spiciness and crunch. This recipe features crispy, tender chicken breasts coated in zesty buffalo sauce, making for a perfect appetizer or main dish. Using the air fryer not only makes this recipe healthier by reducing the amount of oil needed, but it also delivers a satisfying crunch that pairs beautifully with the spicy kick of buffalo sauce.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut in half horizontally
½ cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs
½ cup whole milk
1¼ cup panko bread crumbs
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic salt
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 cup buffalo sauce
2 tablespoons light brown sugar
Prep Time
Preparation for this dish takes about 15 minutes. The key is to properly coat and season each piece of chicken to maximize flavor and crunch.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook time is approximately 13 minutes, with a total time of about 28 minutes including prep. This recipe yields four delicious servings, perfect for sharing at your next gathering or for a delightful weeknight meal.
Enjoy this easy and tasty buffalo chicken recipe that will surely impress family and friends!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare Chicken
Cut each chicken breast in half horizontally to create four thin pieces. Coat each piece evenly in flour, ensuring all sides are covered.
Prepare Panko Mixture
In a bowl, combine the panko bread crumbs, black pepper, garlic salt, and smoked paprika. Mix well to ensure even seasoning throughout the breadcrumbs.
Prepare Egg Mixture
In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and whole milk until fully blended. This mixture will help the breadcrumbs adhere to the chicken.
Dip Chicken
Take each floured chicken piece and dip it into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off. Next, coat the chicken in the seasoned panko mixture, pressing gently to ensure the breadcrumbs stick.
Prepare Sauce Mixture
In another bowl, mix the buffalo sauce and light brown sugar. Stir until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is well combined.
Coat Chicken with Sauce
Dip each breaded chicken piece into the buffalo sauce mixture, ensuring an even coating on all sides. Allow excess sauce to drip off.
Cook Chicken
Place the coated chicken pieces in the air fryer basket, making sure not to overcrowd (cook two at a time if necessary). Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 13 minutes, flipping the pieces halfway through cooking for even crisping.
Rest and Serve
Once the chicken is cooked through and has a golden-brown color, remove it from the air fryer. Let the chicken pieces rest briefly before serving.
Notes
Chicken Thickness
Ensure the chicken breasts are cut thinly to achieve maximum crispiness; this will also reduce cooking time.
Cooking Time Adjustment
Cooking times may vary depending on the air fryer model and chicken thickness; always check for an internal cooking temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Buffalo Sauce Alternatives
Feel free to adjust the type of sauce based on preference; you can use a milder sauce if preferred.
Storage Recommendations
Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer for the best texture.
Cook techniques
Coating Chicken
To ensure the chicken is well coated, first dredge it in flour, then dip it in a whisked egg and milk mixture, and finally coat it with seasoned panko bread crumbs. This process creates a crispy exterior once cooked.
Using an Air Fryer
When using an air fryer, place the breaded chicken pieces in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Cooking at 375°F allows for even cooking and a crispy finish. Flip halfway through for consistent results.
Flavoring with Buffalo Sauce
Combining buffalo sauce with light brown sugar adds a sweet and spicy flavor to the chicken. Ensure the chicken is thoroughly coated in the sauce for maximum taste.
Resting the Chicken
After cooking, allow the chicken to rest briefly. This helps retain moisture and allows the flavors to settle, resulting in a juicier piece of chicken when served.
FAQ
Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
It is recommended to use thawed chicken breasts for even cooking and proper coating.
What can I substitute for panko bread crumbs?
You can use regular bread crumbs or crushed cornflakes as an alternative, but panko provides a unique crispiness.
How do I make the chicken less spicy?
You can reduce the amount of buffalo sauce or mix in a little ranch or blue cheese dressing for a milder flavor.
Can I bake the chicken instead of using an air fryer?
Yes, you can bake the chicken in a preheated oven at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer or oven to retain crispiness.
Conclusion
The buffalo chicken recipe provides a delightful combination of spicy and savory flavors, making it an appealing dish for any occasion. Its crispy texture, achieved through the air frying method, complements the tender chicken beautifully. This meal is not only quick to prepare but also easy to customize, allowing for various adaptations to suit personal tastes.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Buffalo Chicken Wraps
Use the cooked buffalo chicken pieces in a wrap with lettuce, tomatoes, and ranch dressing for a quick and satisfying meal.
Buffalo Chicken Salad
Shred the cooked chicken and toss it with mixed greens, celery, carrots, and a creamy buffalo ranch dressing for a refreshing salad.
Buffalo Chicken Tacos
Serve the buffalo chicken in soft or hard taco shells with toppings like avocado, cheese, and salsa for a tasty taco night.
Buffalo Chicken Pizza
Top a pizza crust with buffalo chicken, mozzarella cheese, and red onion, then bake until the cheese is bubbly for a spicy twist on pizza night.
Buffalo Chicken Meatballs
Combine ground chicken with buffalo sauce, breadcrumbs, and seasonings to make meatballs. Serve with a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing.
