Cowboy Butter Chicken Tenders

Ultra-crispy, cornflake battered Cowboy Butter Chicken Tenders are a delightful treat that can elevate any meal. Perfect for game day, family dinners, or casual gatherings, these tenders are not only easy to make in an air fryer but also drenched in a zesty cowboy butter sauce that will have everyone asking for seconds. With their crunchy exterior and tender interior, these chicken tenders stand out as a flavorful and versatile dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy Texture: The cornflake coating delivers an irresistibly crunchy bite that pairs beautifully with the tender chicken.
• Flavorful Sauce: Tossed in a lemony, garlicky cowboy butter sauce, these tenders are bursting with flavor in every bite.
• Quick Preparation: Made in just 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings.
• Versatile Dish: Serve them as an appetizer, main course, or meal prep option—these tenders fit seamlessly into any occasion.
• Kid-Friendly: With their appealing crunch and mild flavors, children will love these chicken tenders!

Tools and Preparation

To create the best Cowboy Butter Chicken Tenders, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools to help streamline the process.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Air fryer
• Gallon ziplock bag
• Rolling pin or meat mallet
• Three shallow dishes (like pie plates)
• Whisk

Why These Tools Matter

• Air fryer: Cooks the chicken tenders quickly while ensuring they remain crispy without excess oil.
• Gallon ziplock bag: Perfect for crushing cornflakes easily without mess while keeping your kitchen clean.
• Shallow dishes: Ideal for organizing your breading station; they make coating the chicken more efficient.

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.

Ingredients:
– 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)
– 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.

Step 2: Set Up Breading Station

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

Step 3: Coat Chicken Tendies

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

Step 4: Air Fryer Cooking

Place chicken tenders into the air fryer basket in batches:
* Spray them lightly with olive oil spray to enhance crispiness.
* Cook at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 5 minutes.
* Flip each tender, repeat oil spraying and cook an additional 5 minutes until cooked through.

Step 5: Prepare Cowboy Butter Sauce

While the tenders cook:
* Mix together all cowboy butter ingredients in a bowl.
* Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 6: Toss Chicken Tenders

Transfer cooked chicken tenders into a large bowl:
Pour in the cowboy butter sauce over them and toss gently until well coated. Serve alongside ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping!

How to Serve Cowboy Butter Chicken Tenders

These crispy cowboy butter chicken tenders are not only delicious but also versatile in how you can serve them. Here are some creative serving suggestions that will elevate your dining experience.

With Dipping Sauces

• Ranch Dressing: A classic pairing that adds a creamy texture and cool flavor.
• Blue Cheese Dressing: For those who enjoy a bold taste, blue cheese complements the spicy notes perfectly.
• Honey Mustard: The sweetness of honey mustard balances the savory flavors of the tenders.

As a Salad Topping

• Mixed Greens Salad: Slice the tenders and add them to a bed of mixed greens for a hearty salad.
• Caesar Salad: Crumble the chicken over romaine and top with Caesar dressing for a filling twist.

In Tacos

• Soft Tortilla Tacos: Place tenders in soft tortillas with slaw, avocado, and your favorite salsa for a fun meal.
• Crunchy Taco Shells: Use crunchy shells filled with chopped tenders, lettuce, and diced tomatoes for added texture.

With Sides

• French Fries: Serve alongside crispy fries for a classic comfort food combo.
• Coleslaw: The freshness of coleslaw pairs well with the richness of the chicken.

How to Perfect Cowboy Butter Chicken Tenders

To ensure your cowboy butter chicken tenders turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Bold Cornflake Coating: Make sure to crush the cornflakes into coarse crumbs for more texture that adheres better to the chicken.
• Bold Egg Wash Technique: Use one hand for dry ingredients and another for wet to keep your fingers less messy during breading.
• Bold Air Fryer Preheat: Preheat your air fryer before cooking. This helps achieve that ultra-crispy exterior.
• Bold Even Coating: When spraying olive oil, ensure an even coat on all sides of the chicken for even browning.
• Bold Cooking Temperature: Cook at 400 degrees Fahrenheit; this high temperature ensures crispy tenders without drying them out.

Best Side Dishes for Cowboy Butter Chicken Tenders

Complement your cowboy butter chicken tenders with these delightful side dishes. They will enhance your meal and make it even more enjoyable.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic create a comforting side that pairs well with chicken.
2. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until tender adds color and nutrition to your plate.
3. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn offers a burst of flavor that contrasts beautifully with the spicy tenders.
4. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries lend a hint of sweetness that balances out the savory elements of the dish.
5. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad packed with veggies provides a healthy complement to the rich flavors of chicken tenders.
6. Baked Beans: Savory baked beans bring warmth and heartiness, making them an excellent choice alongside the tenders.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Cowboy Butter Chicken Tenders, it’s easy to make a few common missteps. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Not Crushing Cornflakes Properly: Ensure the cornflakes are crushed into coarse crumbs. If they’re too fine, they won’t give that satisfying crunch.
• Overcrowding the Air Fryer: Avoid placing too many tenders in the air fryer at once. This can lead to uneven cooking and soggy textures.
• Skipping the Seasoning: Don’t forget to season your flour mixture adequately. Insufficient seasoning will result in bland chicken tenders.
• Underestimating Cooking Time: Always check if the chicken is cooked through before serving. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (75°C).
• Neglecting the Sauce: Make sure to mix the cowboy butter sauce thoroughly and adjust flavors before tossing the chicken. A well-balanced sauce makes all the difference.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Use within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
• Let them cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Cowboy Butter Chicken Tenders

• Place cooked tenders in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can last up to 2 months in the freezer.
• Label with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Cowboy Butter Chicken Tenders

• Oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through to avoid overcooking.
• Stovetop: Sauté in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes, ensuring they are heated evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Cowboy Butter Chicken Tenders?

Cowboy Butter Chicken Tenders are crispy chicken strips coated in cornflake crumbs and tossed in a flavorful butter sauce made with garlic and lemon.

Can I use other cuts of chicken?

Yes! While tenderloins work great, you can also use chicken breasts or thighs cut into strips.

How can I customize the spices?

Feel free to add your favorite spices or herbs to the flour mixture, such as cumin or oregano, to tailor the flavor profile to your liking.

Are these tenders healthy?

Using an air fryer significantly reduces oil compared to traditional frying methods, making them a healthier option without sacrificing taste.

What should I serve with Cowboy Butter Chicken Tenders?

These tenders pair well with ranch dressing, blue cheese dip, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.

Conclusion

Cowboy Butter Chicken Tenders offer a delightful combination of crunch and flavor that makes them perfect for any occasion. Their versatility allows you to customize seasonings and dips according to your preference. Whether you’re hosting game day or just need a quick weeknight meal, these tenders are sure to impress!