Indulge in the irresistible flavor of hot honey chicken tenders that combine the perfect balance of sweet and spicy. These hot honey chicken tenders are coated in a crunchy golden-brown crust, then drizzled with a spicy honey glaze that elevates your typical chicken tenders to a new level. The tender, juicy chicken paired with the hot honey sauce creates a mouthwatering experience you won’t forget. This recipe is not only easy and quick to prepare but also packed with flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, these hot honey chicken tenders will become a family favorite. Serve them with your choice of dipping sauce for an added layer of deliciousness. Try this recipe today for a delectable meal that will satisfy your cravings!
Tools to Use:
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Shallow dish or plate for breading
- Meat thermometer
Ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken tenders
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for spice level)
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup buttermilk (or regular milk)
- Oil for frying (vegetable or canola oil)
- ½ cup honey
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Chicken: In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Mix well.
- Dunk the Chicken: In another bowl, whisk together the eggs and buttermilk. Dip each chicken tender into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off, then dredge in the flour mixture, pressing to coat.
- Fry the Chicken: Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the breaded chicken tenders in batches, frying until golden brown and cooked through (about 3-4 minutes per side). Remove and place on the prepared baking sheet.
- Make the Hot Honey Sauce: In a small saucepan, combine the honey, hot sauce, and red pepper flakes (if using). Heat over low until warmed through, stirring to combine.
- Drizzle the Sauce: Once the chicken tenders are cooked, remove them from the oven and drizzle the hot honey sauce generously over each tender.
- Serve: Serve the hot honey chicken tenders immediately with your favorite dipping sauces.
Tips for Cooking:
- For an even crispier coating, double-dip the chicken in the egg mixture and flour.
- Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the chicken; if it’s too cool, the tenders will absorb too much oil and become greasy.
- Adjust the spice level of the hot sauce and red pepper flakes to suit your taste.
- If you prefer baking, place the breaded chicken on the baking sheet, spray with cooking oil, and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Protein Facts:
Each serving of hot honey chicken tenders (approximately 4 pieces) contains about 25 grams of protein, making it a satisfying choice for those looking to boost their protein intake while enjoying a flavorful meal.
Why You Should Try This Recipe:
These hot honey chicken tenders are a delicious fusion of flavors that anyone can prepare, even on a busy weeknight. The combination of crunchy, flavorful chicken and a sweet and spicy honey drizzle makes for an irresistible dish. Whether you serve them as an appetizer, a main course, or as part of a meal prep for the week, these tenders are sure to please. Plus, they are versatile; you can enjoy them on their own, in a sandwich, or over a salad for a tasty twist!
Thank you for exploring this hot honey chicken tenders recipe with us! We hope you give it a try and enjoy the delightful balance of flavors it offers. Don’t forget to share your thoughts and any variations you make in the comments below. Happy cooking, and enjoy your delicious hot honey chicken tenders!
Hot Honey Chicken Tenders Recipe
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Shallow dish or plate for breading
- Meat thermometer
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken tenders
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper adjust for spice level
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup buttermilk or regular milk
- Oil for frying vegetable or canola oil
- ½ cup honey
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce adjust to taste
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Chicken: In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Mix well.
- Dunk the Chicken: In another bowl, whisk together the eggs and buttermilk. Dip each chicken tender into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off, then dredge in the flour mixture, pressing to coat.
- Fry the Chicken: Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the breaded chicken tenders in batches, frying until golden brown and cooked through (about 3-4 minutes per side). Remove and place on the prepared baking sheet.
- Make the Hot Honey Sauce: In a small saucepan, combine the honey, hot sauce, and red pepper flakes (if using). Heat over low until warmed through, stirring to combine.
- Drizzle the Sauce: Once the chicken tenders are cooked, remove them from the oven and drizzle the hot honey sauce generously over each tender.
- Serve: Serve the hot honey chicken tenders immediately with your favorite dipping sauces.
