Buffalo Chicken Strips (Easy Sheet Pan Dinner)

Introduction

There’s something truly satisfying about a meal that comes together quickly, yet feels indulgent. This Buffalo Chicken Strips recipe has become a family favorite for us, especially on those busy weeknights when everyone’s craving something flavorful and fun. The crispy chicken strips, coated in a tangy homemade Buffalo sauce, bake alongside fresh veggies, creating a vibrant, colorful dish that’s not only delicious but also easy to prepare. My kids love dipping the strips in ranch yogurt, and it’s a meal that makes everyone happy—what more could you want?

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1 1/4 cups gluten-free panko breadcrumbs (toasted)
• 1/3 cup gluten-free all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp sea salt
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 1/4 cup Frank’s RedHot Sauce
• 1 clove garlic, finely minced
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1 lb chicken tenders

For the Vegetables:

• 6 stalks celery, halved lengthwise and crosswise
• 3 skinny carrots, trimmed and halved lengthwise
• 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• Fleur de sel (or sea salt) to taste

For the Dip:

• 1/2 packet Ranch dip mix
• 1 cup plain 2% Greek yogurt

Instructions

Preheat Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

Prepare Coatings

2. In a bowl, place the toasted panko breadcrumbs.
3. In another bowl, mix the gluten-free flour and sea salt.
4. In a third bowl, combine the melted butter, hot sauce, minced garlic, and beaten egg.

Coat Chicken

5. Dip each chicken tender into the flour mixture, ensuring it’s coated evenly.
6. Next, dip it into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off.
7. Finally, coat the chicken tender with the panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure the coating adheres well.
8. Arrange the coated chicken tenders on two greased baking sheets.

Prepare Vegetables

9. Toss the celery and carrots in olive oil and scatter them around the chicken on the baking sheets. Season with fleur de sel.

Bake

10. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is golden brown.

Make Dip

11. While the chicken bakes, mix the Ranch dip mix with Greek yogurt in a small bowl until well combined.

Serve

12. Drizzle the baked chicken with the dip or serve it on the side. Enjoy your Buffalo Chicken Strips with your favorite grain, like rice or quinoa!

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 4
• Calories per Serving: 350 (approx.)
• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fat: 15g
• Sodium: 600mg (approx.)
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 3g

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve hot directly from the oven.
• Offer the ranch dip on the side for dipping.
• Pair with cooked grains like quinoa, brown rice, or couscous.
• Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for added flavor and color.
• Serve alongside a crisp green salad for a complete meal.

Additional Tips

1. Panko Breadcrumbs: Toasting the panko breadcrumbs gives them a delightful crunch. You can toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until golden before using.
2. Make it Spicier: If you love heat, feel free to add more Frank’s RedHot Sauce to the chicken mixture.
3. Veggie Swap: Substitute the celery and carrots with your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or broccoli.
4. Meal Prep: Prepare the chicken tenders in advance and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake them for a quick dinner solution.
5. Leftover Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Recipe Variations

• Baked Buffalo Cauliflower: For a vegetarian twist, replace the chicken with cauliflower florets. Coat them in the same mixture and bake until crispy.
• Buffalo Chicken Wraps: Shred leftover chicken and toss it in Buffalo sauce. Serve it in a tortilla with lettuce, tomatoes, and ranch dressing for a delicious wrap.
• Add Cheese: Sprinkle some shredded cheese over the chicken in the last few minutes of baking for a cheesy Buffalo chicken delight.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair this dish with a light and refreshing cucumber salad.
• Serve alongside homemade sweet potato fries for a delicious side.
• For a complete meal, consider adding a quinoa salad topped with feta and olives.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: You can freeze uncooked, breaded chicken tenders in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag. When ready to cook, bake directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
• Storage: Store cooked Buffalo Chicken Strips in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of gluten-free?

• Yes, regular breadcrumbs will work well if you don’t need the recipe to be gluten-free.

1. What can I substitute for Frank’s RedHot Sauce?

• Any hot sauce will work, but adjust the quantity to your taste as some sauces may vary in heat.

1. How can I make this dish lower in calories?

• Consider using skinless chicken breasts instead of tenders and reducing the amount of butter used in the coating.

1. Is there a vegan option for this recipe?

• Yes! Use tofu or tempeh instead of chicken and substitute the egg with a flaxseed egg.

1. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

• The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check.

1. Can I make the dip in advance?

• Absolutely! The dip can be prepared a day ahead and stored in the fridge.

1. What sides pair well with Buffalo Chicken Strips?

• Consider serving with coleslaw, roasted vegetables, or a side of baked potatoes.

1. Can I use frozen chicken tenders?

• Yes, just ensure they are fully cooked to the recommended temperature.

1. How long do leftovers last?

• Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.

1. Can I bake this dish instead of frying?
   • Yes, this recipe is designed for baking, making it a healthier option.

Conclusion

This Buffalo Chicken Strips recipe is a fantastic weeknight dinner that brings joy to the table without the hassle. With its crispy chicken and vibrant veggies, it’s a meal that the whole family can enjoy together. The combination of tangy Buffalo sauce and creamy ranch dip makes for a deliciously satisfying experience. So next time you’re looking for a quick and flavorful dish, give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!

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