Cowboy Butter Chicken Tenders

Ultra-crispy, cornflake battered Cowboy Butter Chicken Tenders are the perfect dish for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a game day gathering, prepping a family meal, or simply craving something delicious, these tenders deliver on flavor and texture. Tossed in a zesty cowboy butter sauce, they combine rich garlic and lemon notes that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Plus, they’re quick and easy to make in the air fryer, making them an ideal choice for busy weeknights!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With only 20 minutes of prep time, you can have a fantastic meal on the table in no time.
• Crispy Texture: The cornflake batter creates an ultra-crispy coating that is irresistible.
• Flavor Explosion: The cowboy butter sauce adds a tangy and garlicky kick that’s sure to impress.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as an appetizer, main course, or even for meal prep throughout the week.
• Healthier Option: Made in the air fryer with minimal oil, these tenders are a lighter take on your favorite comfort food.

Tools and Preparation

To create these delicious Cowboy Butter Chicken Tenders, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools that simplify the cooking process.

Essential Kitchen Tools

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

Why These Tools Matter

• Air fryer: Provides a healthier way to achieve that crispy texture without deep frying.
• Gallon ziplock bag: Makes crushing cornflakes mess-free and easy to store leftovers.
• Rolling pin or meat mallet: Helps crush the cornflakes evenly for the perfect coating.
• Three shallow dishes: Essential for organizing your breading station to ensure even coating.

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: Crush the Cornflakes

Begin by adding 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 provide the crispy coating for your chicken tenders.

Step 2: Set Up Breading Station

Grab three shallow dishes:
1. In one dish, combine flour and all-purpose seasoning along with salt and cracked pepper.
2. In another dish, whisk together eggs and milk until smooth for your egg wash.
3. Place crushed cornflakes in the third dish.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken Tenders

Using one hand for dry ingredients and one hand for wet:
1. Coat each chicken tenderloin in the flour mixture first.
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: Air Fry the Chicken Tenders

Place coated chicken tenders into the air fryer basket in batches:
1. Spray them lightly with olive oil spray over their surface.
2. Cook at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 5 minutes.
3. Flip tenders, spray again with oil, and cook another 5 minutes or until cooked through.

Step 5: Prepare Cowboy Butter Sauce & Toss

While chicken cooks:
1. Mix together all cowboy butter sauce ingredients in a bowl; taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
2. Once tenders are cooked, transfer them into a large bowl and pour cowboy butter sauce over them.
3. Toss until well coated before serving.

Enjoy these tasty Cowboy Butter Chicken Tenders with your favorite dipping sauces!

How to Serve Cowboy Butter Chicken Tenders

Cowboy Butter Chicken Tenders are incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways to enhance their flavor and appeal. Here are some creative serving suggestions that will make your meal even more enjoyable.

With Dipping Sauces

• Ranch Dressing: This classic pairing complements the crispy texture of the tenders beautifully.
• Blue Cheese Dressing: For a tangy kick, try serving with blue cheese dressing, which adds depth to the flavors.
• Honey Mustard Sauce: A sweet and tangy honey mustard sauce balances well with the savory butter chicken tenders.

On a Salad

• Mixed Greens Salad: Toss the tenders over a bed of mixed greens with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and your favorite dressing for a refreshing option.
• Caesar Salad: Add tenders to a Caesar salad for a hearty twist on this classic dish.

As a Main Dish

• Serve with Rice or Quinoa: A side of fluffy rice or quinoa can soak up the cowboy butter sauce, making each bite delightful.
• Wrap in Tortillas: Create wraps by placing the chicken tenders in tortillas with lettuce, tomatoes, and ranch for a fun handheld meal.

In a Sandwich

• Chicken Tender Sandwich: Place cooked tenders in a bun with lettuce, tomato, and your choice of sauce for an easy-to-eat sandwich option.

How to Perfect Cowboy Butter Chicken Tenders

Creating perfect Cowboy Butter Chicken Tenders is all about technique and attention to detail. Follow these tips to ensure your tenders come out crispy and flavorful every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh chicken tenderloins will yield the best flavor and texture. Always opt for fresh products when possible.
• Crush Cornflakes Properly: Ensure you crush the cornflakes into coarse crumbs. Too fine will result in less crunchiness.
• Adjust Seasonings to Taste: Feel free to tweak the seasoning blend according to your preference; adding more cayenne can spice things up!
• Don’t Overcrowd the Air Fryer: Cook in batches if necessary. Overcrowding prevents even cooking and crispiness.
• Preheat Your Air Fryer: For optimal cooking results, preheat your air fryer before adding the chicken tenders. This helps achieve that perfect crispy exterior.
• Allow Rest Time After Cooking: Letting the tenders rest for a few minutes after cooking helps retain their juiciness.

Best Side Dishes for Cowboy Butter Chicken Tenders

Pairing side dishes with Cowboy Butter Chicken Tenders can elevate your meal experience. Here are some delicious options that complement the flavors of this dish.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting side that pairs well with any chicken dish.
2. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and acidity, balancing out the richness of the cowboy butter sauce.
3. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob is an excellent summer side that adds sweetness alongside the savory tenders.
4. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries add sweetness and color to your plate while enhancing the overall flavor profile.
5. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal grilled veggies such as bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus offer freshness and bright flavors.
6. Baked Beans: For a hearty addition, serve baked beans seasoned with spices that will complement your chicken perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

It’s easy to make mistakes while preparing Cowboy Butter Chicken Tenders. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season the flour properly can lead to bland tenders. Make sure to mix in enough spices to elevate the flavor.
• Not crushing cornflakes enough: If the cornflakes aren’t crushed into coarse crumbs, they won’t adhere well to the chicken. Take your time to crush them thoroughly for a better coating.
• Overcrowding the air fryer: Placing too many tenders in the air fryer at once can prevent them from getting crispy. Cook them in batches for optimal crispiness.
• Ignoring cooking times: Cooking for too long can dry out the chicken, while undercooking it can lead to safety issues. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
• Neglecting the butter sauce: Skipping or rushing the preparation of the cowboy butter sauce will result in missing out on delicious flavors. Take your time mixing and adjusting ingredients for balance.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will keep well for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Cowboy Butter Chicken Tenders

• Place cooled tenders in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Cowboy Butter Chicken Tenders

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F. Place tenders on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and crispy.
• Microwave: For quick reheating, place tenders on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat with a little oil. Add tenders and cook until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Cowboy Butter Chicken Tenders unique?

The combination of crispy cornflake batter and flavorful cowboy butter sauce sets these chicken tenders apart, creating a deliciously unique dish.

Can I customize the seasoning?

Absolutely! You can use any blend of spices you prefer, such as garlic powder, onion powder, or even barbecue seasoning.

How do I make Cowboy Butter Chicken Tenders gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour and ensure your cornflakes are certified gluten-free.

What should I serve with Cowboy Butter Chicken Tenders?

These tenders pair well with ranch or blue cheese dipping sauces, along with sides like coleslaw or fries for a complete meal.

Can I use different meats?

Yes! While this recipe focuses on chicken tenderloins, you can easily substitute it with turkey or lamb if desired.

Conclusion

Cowboy Butter Chicken Tenders are an irresistible dish that combines crispy textures with rich flavors. They’re perfect as an appetizer or main course and offer great versatility. Feel free to customize them by experimenting with different seasonings or dipping sauces!