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Buffalo Wild Wings Naked Tenders Copycat Recipe

Naked Tenders Copycat Recipe

Rebecca
If you’re looking for a healthier twist on classic chicken tenders without sacrificing flavor, this Naked Tenders Copycat Recipe is a dream come true. I recently whipped this up for my family, and we loved how perfectly seasoned and crispy they were—even without the traditional heavy batter.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb chicken breast or pre-cut tenders
  • 2 tbsp cornstarch
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp white pepper
  • ½ tsp paprika
  • ¼ tsp cayenne
  • ½ tsp mustard powder
  • 1 tbsp Everything But the Bagel Seasoning

Instructions
 

  • Pat your chicken breasts dry with a paper towel to ensure the seasoning sticks well. Then, slice the chicken into tender-sized strips, roughly 2 inches long and wide.
  • Grab a medium-sized mixing bowl. Add your cornstarch and all of the seasonings listed above. Whisk everything together to create a spice blend that will coat the chicken evenly. Toss the chicken strips into the bowl, drizzle with a bit of oil, and mix until fully coated. 🥣
  • Air Fryer Method: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F. Place a small piece of parchment paper on the air fryer tray (optional) and spray it lightly with oil. Lay the chicken strips flat in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd. Air fry for 13-14 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Flip once halfway through cooking for even crispiness!
  • Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, spray with oil, and arrange the tenders in a single layer. Bake for 10 minutes on one side, then flip and bake for an additional 5-6 minutes.
  • Once cooked, allow them to cool for a couple of minutes, then serve with your choice of dipping sauce. I highly recommend pairing them with honey mustard, BBQ sauce, or ranch for that restaurant-level experience.

Notes

  1. Dry Your Chicken: Make sure to pat the chicken dry before seasoning. This will help the spices stick evenly and prevent sogginess.
  2. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Whether using an air fryer or oven, make sure the chicken strips are in a single layer. This ensures they cook evenly and turn crispy on all sides.
  3. Check for Doneness: Always check the internal temperature of the chicken using a meat thermometer. It should read 165°F to ensure it’s safe to eat.
  4. Customize as You Go: Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your liking. Add extra spice, or keep it simple for picky eaters. 
Keyword Naked Tenders Copycat Recipe