Name: Crispy Baked Buffalo Chicken Fingers Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1½ lbs chicken breasts; 5 cups corn flakes cereal; ½ tsp salt; ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper; ½ tsp garlic powder; ½ tsp paprika; 1 cup all purpose flour; 2 large eggs; ¼ cup milk; 1 cup sweet baby ray’s buffalo wing sauce; For Optional For Serving:; celery sticks; blue cheese sauce; For Creamy Blue Cheese Dipping Sauce:; ½ cup mayonnaise; ½ cup sour cream; 2 tsp milk; 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce; ⅔ cup Blue Cheese Crumbles

Experience a delightful crunch with these crispy baked buffalo chicken fingers. Perfect for game night or a family dinner, these chicken strips are coated with seasoned corn flakes and baked to perfection, then tossed in tangy buffalo wing sauce for an irresistible treat.

crispy baked buffalo chicken fingers recipe

Photos of Crispy Baked Buffalo Chicken Fingers Recipe

If you're heading to the supermarket, make sure to grab Sweet Baby Ray’s buffalo wing sauce, which is key to achieving that authentic buffalo flavor. Also, blue cheese crumbles might not be a pantry staple, but they are essential for the creamy dipping sauce that complements the spicy chicken fingers perfectly.

Ingredients For Crispy Baked Buffalo Chicken Fingers

Chicken breasts: Lean and tender, they form the base of the chicken fingers.

Corn flakes cereal: Adds a crispy coating to the chicken fingers.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

Black pepper: Provides a hint of heat and depth.

Garlic powder: Adds a savory note to the coating.

Paprika: Infuses a mild smokiness.

All purpose flour: Helps the coating adhere to the chicken.

Eggs: Acts as a binding agent for the coating.

Milk: Adds moisture to the egg mixture.

Sweet Baby Ray’s buffalo wing sauce: Provides the distinct buffalo flavor.

Celery sticks: Optional for serving, pairs well with the chicken fingers.

Blue cheese sauce: Optional for serving, complements the buffalo chicken flavors.

Mayonnaise: Forms the base of the blue cheese dipping sauce.

Sour cream: Adds creaminess to the blue cheese dipping sauce.

Worcestershire sauce: Adds a tangy note to the dipping sauce.

Blue cheese crumbles: Key ingredient for the dipping sauce.

One reader, Kendell Pardo says:

These crispy baked buffalo chicken fingers are fantastic! The coating is perfectly crunchy, and the buffalo sauce adds just the right amount of heat. The blue cheese dipping sauce is a delicious touch. A new favorite in our household!

Kendell Pardo

Techniques Required for Making Crispy Baked Buffalo Chicken Fingers

How to pound chicken breasts: Place the chicken breasts between two pieces of plastic wrap or in a resealable plastic bag. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound the chicken to an even thickness. How to use a food processor: Add the corn flakes and seasonings to the food processor. Pulse in short bursts until the cereal is broken down but not completely crushed. How to coat chicken strips: Dredge the chicken strips in flour, dip them in the egg mixture, and then roll them in the crushed corn flakes. How to bake chicken strips: Preheat the oven, place the coated chicken strips on a baking sheet, and bake, turning halfway through, until crispy and cooked through. How to make blue cheese dipping sauce: Mix mayonnaise, sour cream, milk, Worcestershire sauce, and blue cheese crumbles in a bowl until well combined.

How To Make Crispy Baked Buffalo Chicken Fingers

These baked buffalo chicken fingers are coated with crushed cornflakes for an extra crispy exterior. Serve them with a creamy blue cheese dip!

Preparation: 30 minutes

Cooking: 20 minutes

Cool Time: 5 minutes

Total: 55 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1½lbschicken breasts,or tenders, skinless, boneless
5cupscorn flakes cereal
½tspsalt
½tspfreshly ground black pepper
½tspgarlic powder
½tsppaprika,smoked
1cupall purpose flour,spoon & leveled
2largeeggs
¼cupmilk
1cupSweet Baby Ray’s buffalo wing sauce,or more, depending on preference

For Optional For Serving:

celery sticks
blue cheese sauce

For Creamy Blue Cheese Dipping Sauce:

½cupmayonnaise
½cupsour cream
2tspmilk
1tspWorcestershire sauce
⅔cupblue cheese crumbles

Instructions

If using chicken breasts, pound down and cut into strips.
Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Set aside.
Place the corn flakes, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika into a food processor. Do it in stages if the processor isn’t large enough).
Pulse 4 to 5 times until the cereal is broken down. Not completely crushed; some larger pieces can remain. Pour into a large bowl.
Place the flour into a separate bowl. Then in a third bowl, whisk the eggs and milk together.
Coat each chicken strip in flour, shaking off any excess. Then, dip in the egg mixture and let any excess drip off.
Then generously roll in the corn flakes, shaking off any excess. Place the chicken strips on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake for 10 minutes. Turn each piece over and continue baking for about 10 more minutes until the outside is crisp and the centers are cooked through.
Baking times may vary, just make sure the chicken is cooked through by cutting into a thick piece. For browner chicken, bake 2 minutes longer. Be careful not to dry out the chicken inside.
Allow to cool for 5 minutes on the baking sheet, then carefully place the chicken fingers into a large bowl.
Pour the buffalo sauce on top and gently stir to coat. Taste and add more sauce if desired. Serve warm with blue cheese dipping sauce.
Stir sauce ingredients together in a small bowl and serve.
Leftover chicken fingers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Reheat in the microwave or for 10 to 12 minutes in a 350-degree F oven.

Nutrition

Calories: 922.93kcal
Fat: 53.63g
Saturated Fat: 16.58g
Trans Fat: 0.19g
Monounsaturated Fat: 16.41g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 17.86g
Carbohydrates: 57.76g
Fiber: 2.85g
Sugar: 6.06g
Protein: 50.84g
Cholesterol: 246.73mg
Sodium: 934.05mg
Calcium: 229.48mg
Potassium: 753.04mg
Iron: 13.65mg
Vitamin A: 371.69µg
Vitamin C: 9.04mg

Essential Technique Tip for Crispy Baked Buffalo Chicken Fingers

When coating the chicken strips in corn flakes, make sure to press the flakes firmly onto the chicken to ensure they adhere well. This will help achieve a crispier texture when baked.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Crispy Baked Buffalo Chicken Fingers

Use pre-cut chicken: Save time by buying pre-cut chicken strips instead of cutting them yourself.

Crush corn flakes in advance: Prepare the corn flakes mixture ahead of time and store it in an airtight container.

Double the batch: Make a double batch and freeze half for a quick meal later.

Use a food processor: Quickly pulse the corn flakes in a food processor instead of crushing them by hand.

Line baking sheet: Use parchment paper or a silicone mat to reduce cleanup time.

Pre-make dipping sauce: Prepare the blue cheese dipping sauce in advance and refrigerate.

Substitute Ingredients For Crispy Baked Buffalo Chicken Fingers Recipe

Chicken breasts - Substitute with turkey breasts: Turkey breasts are a lean protein similar to chicken and will provide a similar texture and flavor.
Corn flakes cereal - Substitute with panko breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs will give a similar crispy texture to the chicken fingers.
Salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a salty flavor along with a bit of umami.
Freshly ground black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a similar heat and flavor profile but is slightly milder.
Garlic powder - Substitute with onion powder: Onion powder provides a similar depth of flavor and can be used in the same quantity.
Paprika - Substitute with chili powder: Chili powder will add a bit of heat and a similar color to the dish.
All purpose flour - Substitute with almond flour: Almond flour is a gluten-free alternative that will still help to coat the chicken.
Eggs - Substitute with flax eggs: Flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg) can be used as a binding agent in place of regular eggs.
Milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk is a dairy-free alternative that can be used in the same quantity.
Sweet Baby Ray’s buffalo wing sauce - Substitute with homemade buffalo sauce: A mixture of hot sauce and melted butter can replicate the flavor of buffalo wing sauce.
Celery sticks - Substitute with carrot sticks: Carrot sticks provide a similar crunch and are often served with buffalo wings.
Blue cheese sauce - Substitute with ranch dressing: Ranch dressing is a popular alternative to blue cheese sauce and pairs well with buffalo flavors.
Mayonnaise - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt is a healthier alternative that provides a similar creamy texture.
Sour cream - Substitute with plain yogurt: Plain yogurt can be used in place of sour cream for a similar tangy flavor.
Milk - Substitute with buttermilk: Buttermilk adds a tangy flavor and can be used in the same quantity.
Worcestershire sauce - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce provides a similar umami flavor and can be used in the same quantity.
Blue cheese crumbles - Substitute with feta cheese: Feta cheese has a similar crumbly texture and tangy flavor.

Presenting Crispy Baked Buffalo Chicken Fingers

Serve smaller portion sizes: Cut the chicken fingers into elegant, bite-sized pieces to create a refined presentation. This allows for a more sophisticated dining experience and ensures each bite is perfectly coated with buffalo sauce.
Use decoration: Arrange the chicken fingers on a sleek, white plate to highlight their golden, crispy exterior. Garnish with finely chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness.
Create a dipping station: Serve the creamy blue cheese dipping sauce in a small, stylish ramekin placed on the side of the plate. This keeps the sauce separate and allows diners to control the amount they use.
Add texture contrast: Include a few celery sticks on the plate for a crunchy contrast to the crispy chicken fingers. Cut the celery into thin, elegant strips and arrange them neatly.
Drizzle with sauce: Lightly drizzle some extra buffalo wing sauce over the chicken fingers just before serving. This adds a vibrant color and an extra layer of flavor, making the dish visually appealing.
Use a garnish: Top the creamy blue cheese dipping sauce with a small sprinkle of blue cheese crumbles and a dash of paprika. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds a touch of sophistication to the presentation.
Serve warm: Ensure the chicken fingers are served warm by reheating them in a 350-degree F oven for 10 to 12 minutes if necessary. This keeps the exterior crispy and the interior juicy, providing the best possible texture and flavor.

Essential Tools for Making Crispy Baked Buffalo Chicken Fingers

Food processor: To pulse the corn flakes with spices until they are broken down but not completely crushed.
Large baking sheet: To place the chicken strips on for baking.
Parchment paper: To line the baking sheet, preventing the chicken from sticking and making cleanup easier.
Silicone baking mat: An alternative to parchment paper for lining the baking sheet.
Mixing bowl: To hold the pulsed corn flakes mixture.
Separate bowl: For the flour coating.
Third bowl: To whisk the eggs and milk together.
Whisk: To mix the eggs and milk until well combined.
Oven: To bake the chicken strips at 400 degrees F.
Knife: To cut the chicken breasts into strips.
Cutting board: To safely cut the chicken breasts.
Meat pounder: To pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness.
Large bowl: To toss the baked chicken fingers with buffalo sauce.
Small bowl: To mix the ingredients for the blue cheese dipping sauce.
Measuring cups: To measure out the ingredients accurately.
Measuring spoons: To measure out the spices and other small quantities.
Tongs: To turn the chicken strips halfway through baking and to toss them in buffalo sauce.
Microwave: To reheat leftover chicken fingers if desired.
Refrigerator: To store leftover chicken fingers for up to one week.

Storing and Freezing Crispy Baked Buffalo Chicken Fingers

Allow the chicken fingers to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To freeze the chicken fingers, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid, about 2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Label the container with the date and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
When ready to reheat, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the frozen chicken fingers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. Alternatively, you can reheat them in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until crispy and heated through.
Note: For best results, do not thaw the chicken fingers before reheating, as this may cause them to lose their crispiness. Reheating them from frozen will help maintain their crunchy texture.
If you have leftover buffalo sauce, store it separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. When reheating the chicken fingers, you can brush them with the reserved sauce before placing them in the oven or air fryer for added flavor.

How To Reheat Leftover Crispy Baked Buffalo Chicken Fingers

To reheat leftover crispy baked buffalo chicken fingers in the oven, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken fingers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. This method helps maintain the crispiness of the corn flake coating.
For a quicker option, you can reheat the chicken fingers in the microwave. Place them on a microwave-safe plate and heat on high power for 30-60 seconds, depending on the number of pieces and your microwave's wattage. Be aware that microwaving may result in a slightly softer coating compared to oven reheating.
If you have an air fryer, you can use it to reheat the buffalo chicken fingers. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the chicken fingers in the basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Air fry for 3-5 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.
For a crispy exterior and evenly heated interior, consider using a combination of microwave and oven reheating. First, microwave the chicken fingers for 30-45 seconds to warm them up. Then, transfer them to a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for 5-7 minutes, or until crispy and heated through.
Regardless of the reheating method you choose, be sure to check the internal temperature of the chicken fingers using a meat thermometer. The temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) to ensure they are safe to consume. Enjoy your reheated crispy baked buffalo chicken fingers with extra buffalo sauce and blue cheese dipping sauce on the side.

Interesting Fact About Crispy Baked Buffalo Chicken Fingers

A fun fact about this recipe is that using corn flakes as a coating for the chicken fingers not only adds a delightful crunch but also makes the dish gluten-free if you substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free alternative.

Is Making Crispy Baked Buffalo Chicken Fingers at Home Cost-Effective?

This crispy baked buffalo chicken fingers recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients like chicken breasts, corn flakes, and buffalo wing sauce are affordable and easily accessible. The use of pantry staples such as flour, eggs, and spices further keeps costs down. The optional celery sticks and blue cheese sauce add a gourmet touch without breaking the bank. Overall Verdict: 8/10. Approximate cost for a household of 4 people: $15-$20 USD.

Are Crispy Baked Buffalo Chicken Fingers Healthy or Unhealthy?

The crispy baked buffalo chicken fingers recipe is a healthier alternative to traditional deep-fried chicken fingers. By baking the chicken instead of frying, the recipe reduces the amount of oil and fat consumed. The use of corn flakes as a coating provides a crispy texture without the need for excessive oil. The recipe also incorporates lean chicken breast, which is a good source of protein.

However, there are some aspects of the recipe that could be improved to make it even healthier:

The buffalo sauce used in the recipe is likely high in sodium and may contain added sugars. Consider making a homemade buffalo sauce using hot sauce, butter, and spices to control the ingredients and reduce the sodium content.
The blue cheese dipping sauce is high in fat due to the mayonnaise, sour cream, and blue cheese crumbles. To make it healthier, you could use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise and sour cream, and reduce the amount of blue cheese crumbles.
The recipe could benefit from the addition of vegetables to increase the nutrient content. Serving the chicken fingers with a side salad or roasted vegetables would provide additional vitamins and minerals.

To further enhance the healthiness of the recipe, consider the following suggestions:

Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour to increase the fiber content
Opt for a low-fat milk option, such as skim milk or almond milk, in the egg mixture
Experiment with different spices and herbs to add flavor without relying on high-sodium sauces
Serve the chicken fingers with a variety of fresh vegetable sticks, such as carrots, bell peppers, and cucumber, to encourage balanced eating

Editor's Opinion on Crispy Baked Buffalo Chicken Fingers Recipe

This recipe for crispy baked buffalo chicken fingers is a delightful twist on a classic favorite. The use of corn flakes adds an unexpected crunch, while the buffalo sauce provides a tangy kick. The balance of spices enhances the overall flavor without overpowering the dish. The creamy blue cheese dipping sauce complements the heat perfectly, making it a well-rounded appetizer or main course. Baking instead of frying keeps it healthier without sacrificing texture. Overall, it's a crowd-pleaser that's easy to prepare and sure to impress.

Enhance Your Crispy Baked Buffalo Chicken Fingers Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Imagine pairing your crispy baked buffalo chicken fingers with a creamy, buttery potato delight. The garlic infusion adds a rich depth of flavor, making each bite a comforting experience. The smooth texture of the mashed potatoes contrasts beautifully with the crunch of the chicken, creating a harmonious balance on your plate.

Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Zest: Add a touch of elegance to your meal with asparagus spears kissed by the grill and brightened with a hint of lemon zest. The slight char from the grill enhances the natural sweetness of the vegetable, while the citrusy zing cuts through the richness of the buffalo sauce, offering a refreshing palate cleanser.

Honey-Glazed Carrots: Sweet and savory, these carrots are roasted to perfection and glazed with a luscious honey coating. The natural sweetness of the carrots complements the spicy kick of the buffalo chicken, creating a delightful contrast that will have your taste buds dancing with joy.

Quinoa Salad with Cranberries and Pecans: For a lighter, yet satisfying side, consider a quinoa salad bursting with the tartness of cranberries and the crunch of pecans. This grain salad not only adds a pop of color to your plate but also provides a nutty, fruity counterpoint to the bold flavors of the chicken fingers.

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: Warm up your meal with a bowl of velvety tomato basil soup. The creamy texture and aromatic basil notes create a comforting backdrop that complements the spicy, crispy chicken. This classic soup offers a soothing, flavorful experience that rounds out your main course perfectly.

Similar Recipes to Crispy Baked Buffalo Chicken Fingers

Spicy Honey Garlic Chicken Wings: These wings are a perfect blend of sweet and spicy, featuring a sticky honey glaze with a kick of garlic and chili. Serve with a side of carrot sticks and ranch dressing for a game day treat.

Parmesan Crusted Chicken Tenders: Crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, these chicken tenders are coated in a parmesan and herb crust. Pair them with a marinara sauce for dipping and a fresh garden salad.

BBQ Chicken Drumsticks: These drumsticks are marinated in a smoky BBQ sauce and baked to perfection. Serve with coleslaw and cornbread for a classic Southern meal.

Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken: Marinated in a zesty lemon and herb mixture, this grilled chicken is light and flavorful. Pair it with roasted vegetables and a side of quinoa for a healthy dinner option.

Buffalo Cauliflower Bites: A vegetarian twist on the classic, these cauliflower bites are baked until crispy and tossed in buffalo sauce. Serve with celery sticks and blue cheese dressing for a guilt-free snack.

Appetizers and Desserts to Serve with Crispy Baked Buffalo Chicken Fingers

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Elevate your appetizer game with these stuffed mushrooms. Start by hollowing out button mushrooms and fill them with a savory mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. Top with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese and bake until golden brown. These bite-sized delights are perfect for any gathering and pair wonderfully with a crisp white wine.

Shrimp Cocktail: Impress your guests with a classic shrimp cocktail. Poach jumbo shrimp until tender and serve them chilled with a zesty cocktail sauce. The sauce, made from ketchup, horseradish, and a splash of lemon juice, adds a tangy kick that complements the sweetness of the shrimp. Arrange on a platter with lemon wedges and a garnish of fresh parsley for a stunning presentation.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Imagine a decadent chocolate lava cake with a molten center that oozes rich, velvety chocolate with every bite. Pair this indulgent treat with a scoop of vanilla ice cream to balance the warm, gooey chocolate with a cool, creamy contrast. Garnish with a sprinkle of powdered sugar and a few fresh raspberries for a touch of elegance and a burst of fruity flavor. This dessert is perfect for those who crave a luxurious and satisfying end to their meal.

Lemon Meringue Pie: Delight your taste buds with a lemon meringue pie that boasts a tangy lemon curd filling and a light, fluffy meringue topping. The crisp pie crust provides a perfect base, while the meringue is lightly toasted to a golden brown. Serve with a dollop of whipped cream and a few slices of lemon for an extra zesty kick. This dessert is ideal for those who appreciate a balance of sweet and tart flavors, making it a refreshing and delightful conclusion to any meal.

Why trust this Crispy Baked Buffalo Chicken Fingers Recipe:

This recipe for crispy baked buffalo chicken fingers is a must-try for anyone seeking a healthier alternative to fried chicken. The corn flakes provide an irresistible crunch, while the buffalo wing sauce adds a perfect kick of flavor. Paired with a creamy blue cheese dipping sauce, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make. The detailed instructions ensure that even novice cooks can achieve restaurant-quality results at home. Trust this recipe for its balance of taste, texture, and simplicity.

Want to share your experience making these Crispy Baked Buffalo Chicken Fingers or have any tips to make them even better? Head over to the Recipe Sharing forum and join the discussion!

FAQ:

How do I make sure the chicken fingers are crispy?

To ensure the chicken fingers are crispy, make sure to coat them well in the corn flakes mixture. Also, baking them at 400 degrees F helps achieve that crispy texture. If you want them even crispier, you can bake them for an additional 2 minutes, but be careful not to dry out the chicken.

Can I use a different type of cereal instead of corn flakes?

Yes, you can use other cereals like Rice Krispies or even crushed pretzels for a different texture and flavor. Just make sure to pulse them in the food processor to a similar consistency as the corn flakes.

How do I store and reheat leftover chicken fingers?

Leftover chicken fingers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, you can use the microwave, but for better texture, I recommend reheating them in a 350-degree F oven for 10 to 12 minutes.

Can I make the blue cheese dipping sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make the blue cheese dipping sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. It keeps well for several days, so feel free to prepare it in advance.

What can I serve with these buffalo chicken fingers?

These buffalo chicken fingers go great with celery sticks and blue cheese sauce. You can also serve them with carrot sticks, ranch dressing, or even a side salad for a more complete meal.