Cowboy Butter Chicken Tenders

Ultra-crispy, cornflake battered Cowboy Butter Chicken Tenders are a delightful treat that will impress at any gathering. This dish is perfect for game day, family dinners, or meal prep, thanks to its easy preparation and mouthwatering flavors. The standout feature of these tenders is their crunchy exterior paired with a rich, lemony cowboy butter sauce that takes them to the next level.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy Texture: The cornflake coating gives these chicken tenders an irresistible crunch.
• Quick and Easy: With just 30 minutes from prep to plate, you can whip up this dish in no time.
• Flavor Explosion: The cowboy butter sauce adds a zesty garlic flavor that enhances the chicken perfectly.
• Versatile Dish: Ideal for appetizers, main courses, or snacks; they fit any occasion.
• Healthy Cooking Method: Made in the air fryer, these tenders are lower in fat without sacrificing flavor.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare these Cowboy Butter Chicken Tenders efficiently, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right tools on hand will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Air fryer
• Gallon ziplock bag
• Rolling pin or meat mallet
• Three shallow dishes
• Whisk

Why These Tools Matter

• Air fryer: Allows for healthier frying options while achieving that crispy texture we love.
• Rolling pin or meat mallet: Perfect for crushing cornflakes into the ideal crumb size for breading.
• Three shallow dishes: Essential for organizing your wet and dry ingredients during the breading process.

Ingredients

Ultra-crispy, cornflake battered cowboy butter chicken tenders are made easily in the air fryer then tossed in a lemony, garlicky cowboy butter sauce.

For the Chicken Tenders

• 2 lb chicken tenderloins
• 1/2 cup flour
• 1 tbsp all purpose seasoning (Cajun, kick’n chicken seasoning, etc)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 tsp freshly cracked pepper
• 2 eggs
• 1/4 cup milk or buttermilk
• 3 cups corn flakes (crushed to coarse crumbs)
• olive oil or avocado oil spray (aerosol spray is ideal)

For the Cowboy Butter Sauce

• 1 stick butter, mostly melted
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 lemon zested and 1 tablespoon juice
• 1 tablespoon dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne or red pepper flakes
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 tablespoon chives or green onions, sliced
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley minced
• kosher salt and pepper to taste

How to Make Cowboy Butter Chicken Tenders

Step 1: Prepare Cornflake Coating

Add cornflakes into a gallon ziplock bag, seal it tightly, and use a rolling pin or meat mallet to crush them into coarse crumbs. This will create that perfect crispy coating.

Step 2: Set Up Breading Station

Grab three shallow dishes. In the first dish, add your flour and seasonings. In the second dish, whisk together the eggs with milk until smooth. In the third dish, place your crushed cornflakes.

Step 3: Bread the Chicken Tenders

Using one hand for dry ingredients and another for wet ones:
1. Coat each chicken tender in the flour mixture.
2. Transfer it into the egg wash ensuring it’s fully coated.
3. Finally, press it into the cornflake crumbs until well covered.

Step 4: Cook in Air Fryer

Place a few breaded chicken tenders at a time into the air fryer basket:
– Spray them generously with olive oil spray over the surface.
– Cook at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 5 minutes.
– Flip tenders over and repeat with olive oil spray; cook another 5 minutes or until fully cooked through.

Step 5: Mix Cowboy Butter Sauce

While the chicken cooks, mix all of your cowboy butter ingredients together in a bowl. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.

Step 6: Toss and Serve

Once cooked, transfer chicken tenders into a large bowl. Pour over the cowboy butter sauce and toss until they are well coated. Serve with ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping. Enjoy your delicious Cowboy Butter Chicken Tenders!

How to Serve Cowboy Butter Chicken Tenders

Cowboy Butter Chicken Tenders are not only delicious on their own but also versatile when it comes to serving suggestions. Pairing them with the right sides and dips can elevate your meal experience.

With Dipping Sauces

• Ranch Dressing – A classic choice that adds a creamy, tangy flavor.
• Blue Cheese Dressing – For those who enjoy a bold and rich taste.
• Honey Mustard – Sweet and zesty, perfect for balancing the savory tenders.

On a Salad

• Mixed Green Salad – Toss the tenders over a bed of fresh greens with your favorite dressing for a light meal.
• Caesar Salad – Add crispy romaine, croutons, and Parmesan cheese for a hearty option.

In a Wrap

• Tortilla Wraps – Roll the chicken tenders in a tortilla with lettuce, tomatoes, and sauce for an easy-to-eat lunch.
• Pita Pockets – Stuff tender pieces into pita bread with veggies and sauce for a Mediterranean twist.

As Part of a Platter

• Appetizer Platter – Serve the tenders alongside assorted cheeses, crackers, and olives for a crowd-pleasing snack.
• Game Day Spread – Combine them with nachos, sliders, and other finger foods for the perfect party setup.

How to Perfect Cowboy Butter Chicken Tenders

To make your Cowboy Butter Chicken Tenders truly outstanding, consider these helpful tips.

• Bold seasoning choice – Enhance flavor by using various seasonings in the flour mix. Cajun or Italian blends work beautifully.
• Crispy texture – Ensure you use crushed corn flakes for that perfect crunch; larger crumbs add more texture.
• Don’t overcrowd the air fryer – Cook in batches to allow hot air circulation for even cooking and crispiness.
• Adjust cooking time based on thickness – Thicker tenders may require slightly longer cooking times; always ensure they reach 165°F internally.
• Experiment with spices – Try different spices in your cowboy butter sauce like smoked paprika or garlic powder for added depth of flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Cowboy Butter Chicken Tenders

Serving Cowboy Butter Chicken Tenders with complementary side dishes can enhance your meal’s overall appeal. Here are some great options to consider:

1. French Fries – Crispy golden fries are always a hit alongside chicken tenders; serve with ketchup or aioli.
2. Coleslaw – A refreshing cabbage slaw adds crunch and balances out the richness of the butter sauce.
3. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized provide a healthy side that’s packed with flavor.
4. Macaroni and Cheese – Creamy mac ‘n’ cheese is comfort food that pairs wonderfully with crispy chicken tenders.
5. Corn on the Cob – Grilled or boiled corn brings sweetness to the plate; add butter and herbs for extra flair.
6. Potato Wedges – Seasoned wedges offer an alternative to fries, delivering hearty satisfaction alongside your tenders.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Cowboy Butter Chicken Tenders, it’s important to steer clear of common pitfalls that can affect the final result. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the seasoning: Always season your flour mixture properly. This is crucial for adding flavor to your chicken tenders. Without it, the dish will taste bland.
• Not coating properly: Make sure each chicken tender is well-coated in flour, egg wash, and cornflake crumbs. A thorough coating ensures extra crunchiness and flavor.
• Overcrowding the air fryer: Cook the chicken tenders in batches if necessary. Overcrowding prevents even cooking and may result in soggy tenders.
• Ignoring cooking times: Keep an eye on the cooking time and temperature. Cooking them too long can dry out the chicken, while undercooking poses food safety risks.
• Neglecting the sauce: Don’t forget to mix your cowboy butter sauce well before tossing it with the tenders. A properly mixed sauce ensures every bite is flavorful.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Ensure they are completely cooled before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezing Cowboy Butter Chicken Tenders

• Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Label the container with the date for easy identification later.

Reheating Cowboy Butter Chicken Tenders

• Oven: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Place tenders on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place tenders on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in short bursts of 30 seconds until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a little oil, and warm the tenders for about 5-7 minutes or until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other types of meat for Cowboy Butter Chicken Tenders?

Yes! You can use turkey or lamb tenderloins as alternatives to chicken, ensuring similar preparation methods for delicious results.

What dipping sauces go well with Cowboy Butter Chicken Tenders?

Ranch dressing or blue cheese complement these tenders perfectly. You can also try honey mustard or barbecue sauce for variety.

How do I make Cowboy Butter Chicken Tenders spicier?

To increase spice levels, add more cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes in your cowboy butter sauce or seasoning mix.

Are Cowboy Butter Chicken Tenders suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! They store well and can be enjoyed throughout the week as part of your meal prep routine.

Can I bake these instead of using an air fryer?

Yes! Bake at 400°F (200°C) on a parchment-lined baking sheet for approximately 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through cooking time.

Conclusion

Cowboy Butter Chicken Tenders are not only ultra-crispy but also bursting with flavor from the zesty cowboy butter sauce. Their versatility makes them perfect for appetizers, game day snacks, or even meal prep. Feel free to customize with different seasonings or dipping sauces based on your taste preferences!

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