Are you ready to spice up your kitchen with a recipe that packs a punch? Look no further than these mouthwatering Buffalo Chicken Tenders with a homemade low calorie Blue Cheese Dressing. With their crispy exterior, tender meat, and bold flavors, these chicken tenders are sure to become a favorite among family and friends. Get your taste buds ready for a culinary adventure!
Buffalo Chicken Tenders with Homemade Low Calorie Blue Cheese Dressing
Equipment
- 1 broiler or oven
- 1 large bowl
- 1 baking sheet
- 1 full sheet of a paper towel
- 1 small bowl
- 1 medium sized bowl
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken tenders (or about 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, pounded to 1/4 inch thickness and cut into strips)
- 2 tablespoons cayenne pepper hot sauce, or other hot sauce (you can add more or less depending on how spicy you would like the tenders)
- 2 teaspoons olive oil
- 4 large stalks or celery, sliced (to serve with the tenders and dressing)
- low fat blue cheese dressing
To make the Blue Cheese Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons fat free mayonnaise
- ¼ cup fat free (or lowfat) buttermilk
- ¼ cup plain fat-free yogurt
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar
- ½ teaspoon sugar
- ⅓ cup crumbled blue cheese
- Salt and fresh ground pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the broiler (or preheat the oven to 375 degrees if that is your preferred cooking method).
- In a large bowl combine the hot sauce and the oil; add the chicken and toss until it is well coated. Arrange the chicken on a baking sheet and broil until it is cooked through, about 4 to 6 minutes, turning once (you could also bake it in a 375 degree oven for about 15 minutes).
To make the Blue Cheese Dressing:
- Fold a full sheet of a paper towel into quarters and put it into a small bowl. Spoon the yogurt onto the paper towel and place it in the refrigerator for 20 minutes to drain and thicken.
- After the 20 minutes, whisk the buttermilk and thickened yogurt into the mayonnaise in a medium sized bowl until smooth.
- Add the vinegar and sugar and continue to whisk until all the ingredients are well combined. Stir in the crumbled blue cheese and season, to taste, with the salt and pepper.
Video
Notes
Cooking Tips
Mastering the art of cooking Buffalo Chicken Tenders with Homemade Low Calorie Blue Cheese Dressing requires a few key tips and tricks. In this section, we’ll share valuable insights to ensure you achieve the best results and avoid common pitfalls. Let’s dive in!
- Achieving Crispy Perfection:
To achieve perfectly crispy chicken tenders, make sure you pat the chicken dry with paper towels before breading. Excess moisture can hinder the browning process. Additionally, preheating the baking sheet in the oven before placing the tenders on it helps to create an even, crispy crust. - The Power of Marination:
For maximum flavor infusion, marinate the chicken tenders in a mixture of buttermilk, hot sauce, and spices for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight). This step not only adds tang and tenderness but also allows the flavors to penetrate the meat. - Breading Techniques:
When breading the chicken tenders, use one hand for dipping the chicken into the wet mixture and the other hand for coating it with the breadcrumb mixture. This helps to prevent clumpy and sticky fingers. For an extra crispy coating, go for a double breading by repeating the dipping and coating process. - Oven Temperature and Timing:
For perfectly cooked and juicy chicken tenders, preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Bake the tenders on a greased baking sheet for about 15-20 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time. Keep a close eye on them to avoid overcooking and drying out the meat. - Resting and Cooling:
After removing the chicken tenders from the oven, allow them to rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps to retain their juiciness and allows the flavors to settle. If you prefer a cooler temperature, let them cool on a wire rack for a few minutes to maintain their crispy texture.
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve mastered the art of cooking Buffalo Chicken Tenders with Homemade Low Calorie Blue Cheese Dressing, it’s time to explore the world of serving possibilities. Here, we’ll provide detailed suggestions on how to elevate your dish and create a memorable dining experience.
- Flavorful Complements:
To enhance the flavors of the chicken tenders, serve them with a side of celery sticks and carrot sticks. The refreshing crunch of the vegetables provides a pleasant contrast to the spicy tenders. Additionally, a tangy coleslaw or a mixed green salad can balance the heat and add a refreshing element to the meal. - Dipping Delights:
While the chicken tenders are already coated in the delicious Blue Cheese Dressing, you can offer additional dipping options. Consider serving them with a side of ranch dressing or a zesty barbecue sauce. These complementary dips will add extra layers of flavor and satisfy various palates. - Sandwich Sensation:
Transform your Buffalo Chicken Tenders into a mouthwatering sandwich. Fill a soft bun or a crusty baguette with the tenders, crisp lettuce, sliced tomatoes, and a dollop of Blue Cheese Dressing. This combination creates a perfect harmony of textures and flavors, making it an excellent handheld option. - Game Day Glory:
If you’re hosting a game day gathering, create a finger-food feast by setting up a build-your-own Buffalo Chicken Tender station. Provide a variety of toppings such as sliced jalapeños, diced red onions, and shredded cheese. Let your guests customize their tenders and enjoy the interactive experience. - Beverage Pairings:
Pair your Buffalo Chicken Tenders with refreshing beverages that complement the flavors. A chilled glass of crisp beer, such as a light lager or a hoppy IPA, can balance the spiciness. For non-alcoholic options, consider serving iced tea, lemonade, or even a fruity mocktail for a vibrant and refreshing contrast.
FAQs about Buffalo Chicken Tenders with Homemade Low Calorie Blue Cheese Dressing
As you embark on your culinary journey with Buffalo Chicken Tenders with Homemade Low Calorie Blue Cheese Dressing, it’s natural to have a few questions. In this section, we’ll address some common queries to ensure a seamless cooking and dining experience. Let’s dive into these FAQs!
Can I prepare Buffalo Chicken Tenders with homemade Low Calorie Blue Cheese Dressing in advance?
Yes, you can prepare Buffalo Chicken Tenders with homemade Low Calorie Blue Cheese Dressing up to the breading stage and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to cook, simply take them out, coat them in breadcrumbs, and proceed with the baking instructions.
How can I store any leftovers of Buffalo Chicken Tenders with homemade Low Calorie Blue Cheese Dressing?
If you have any leftover Buffalo Chicken Tenders with homemade Low Calorie Blue Cheese Dressing, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain their crispiness, reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. The Blue Cheese Dressing can be stored separately in a sealed container for up to 5 days.
Can I use boneless chicken breasts instead of chicken tenders?
Absolutely! While chicken tenders are commonly used for this recipe due to their size and tenderness, you can substitute boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Simply slice the chicken breasts into strips or chunks to resemble chicken tenders. Keep in mind that the cooking time may vary, so adjust accordingly to ensure the chicken is cooked through.
Can I make the Blue Cheese Dressing ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the Blue Cheese Dressing ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Before serving, give it a good stir to recombine any separated ingredients. If the dressing thickens in the refrigerator, you can thin it out with a little milk or buttermilk until you reach your desired consistency.
Can I make the Buffalo Chicken Tenders gluten-free?
Absolutely! To make gluten-free Buffalo Chicken Tenders, substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Additionally, ensure that the hot sauce and other ingredients used, such as Worcestershire sauce, are gluten-free. Always check the labels to confirm.
Crispy, flavorful Buffalo Chicken Tenders with homemade Low Calorie Blue Cheese Dressing await you in this ultimate recipe guide. Avoid common cooking mistakes, explore creative serving ideas, and find answers to FAQs. Join our culinary community by sharing the recipe and subscribing to our blog for exclusive content.