Name: Crispy Buffalo Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or tenders; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 2 large eggs, beaten; 2 cups panko breadcrumbs; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; 1 tsp paprika; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1/2 cup buffalo sauce; 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted; Cooking oil for frying or baking

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe takes classic buffalo chicken to the next level with a golden, crispy crust that holds up beautifully under a generous coating of sauce. It’s easy to make, works with both chicken breasts and tenders, and can be enjoyed on its own, in sandwiches, wraps, or over salads.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or tenders
All-purpose flour
Eggs
Panko breadcrumbs
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Paprika
Salt and pepper
Buffalo sauce
Unsalted butter, melted
Cooking oil for frying or baking

Directions

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) or heat oil in a deep skillet to 350°F (175°C) for frying.
Cut chicken into desired sizes if using large breasts.
Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls: one with flour seasoned with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper; one with beaten eggs; and one with panko breadcrumbs.
Dredge chicken in flour, dip in egg, then coat thoroughly in panko.
For baking: place chicken on a greased baking sheet, spray lightly with oil, and bake for 18–22 minutes until golden and cooked through. For frying: cook in hot oil for 4–6 minutes per side, until crispy and fully cooked.
In a small saucepan, melt butter and stir in buffalo sauce until smooth.
Toss crispy chicken in buffalo sauce just before serving.

Servings and timing

Serves 4 people.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

Baked Healthier Version: Bake instead of fry for less oil.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs.
Extra Spicy: Add cayenne pepper to the flour mixture or use a hotter buffalo sauce.
Honey Buffalo: Stir in honey to the buffalo sauce for a sweet-heat flavor.
Parmesan Buffalo: Sprinkle with grated Parmesan right after saucing.

Storage/Reheating

Store cooled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat in a 375°F oven or air fryer for 5–8 minutes to restore crispiness.
Avoid microwaving as it will soften the coating.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless thighs work great and stay juicy.

How do I make the chicken extra crispy?

Use panko breadcrumbs and avoid crowding the pan when cooking.

Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time?

Yes, bread the chicken and refrigerate for up to 4 hours before cooking.

What’s the best buffalo sauce to use?

A classic cayenne pepper-based sauce like Frank’s RedHot works perfectly.

Can I air fry this recipe?

Yes, cook at 375°F for about 15 minutes, flipping halfway.

Will the coating stay crispy after saucing?

It’s crispiest when sauced right before eating.

Can I make it mild?

Yes, mix buffalo sauce with melted butter or add a splash of honey.

What sides go well with crispy buffalo chicken?

Celery sticks, carrot sticks, ranch or blue cheese dressing, and fries.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

Can I freeze cooked buffalo chicken?

Yes, freeze before adding sauce for up to 2 months, then bake from frozen until hot.

Conclusion

Crispy Buffalo Chicken delivers everything you love about buffalo wings in an easy-to-eat, breaded form. With its crunchy exterior, juicy inside, and fiery flavor, it’s a crowd-pleaser that works for casual meals, parties, and everything in between.