Hot Honey Chicken Tenders

If you’re looking for a delightful finger food that’s sure to impress, these Hot Honey Chicken Tenders are the answer! They are crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, enveloped in a sweet and spicy sauce that will have everyone coming back for more. This recipe is a family favorite in my home, perfect for busy weeknights or fun family gatherings. It’s so easy to whip up and brings a little extra excitement to dinner time!

What makes these hot honey chicken tenders truly special is how they combine comfort food with a kick. You can serve them as an appetizer or make them the star of your meal—either way, they’re bound to become a staple in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 20 minutes of prep time and 6 minutes of cooking, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Kids (and adults!) love the crunchy texture and sweet heat—it’s perfect for any picky eaters!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can marinate the chicken ahead of time and fry it up when you’re ready to eat.
• Versatile Dish: Great as an appetizer, main course, or even tossed into salads for a filling meal!
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of honey and hot sauce creates a mouthwatering glaze that elevates these tenders to another level.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to make these tasty hot honey chicken tenders! You might already have many of these staples in your pantry.

For the Chicken Tenders

• 1 lb chicken tenderloins (white tendon removed)
• 2 cups buttermilk
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 2 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp oregano
• 1 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
• 1/4 tsp black pepper (or to taste)

For the Sauce

• 1/2 cup hot sauce
• 1/2 cup honey

For Frying

• Oil, for frying

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have at home or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: If you want something different, try using chicken breasts cut into strips or even tofu for a plant-based option.
• Adjust the heat: If you prefer less spice, reduce the amount of hot sauce or use a milder variety.
• Add some crunch: Toss in some crushed cornflakes or panko breadcrumbs when coating for an extra crispy texture.
• Experiment with flavors: Swap out the spices for your favorites—cayenne pepper can add more heat, while Italian herbs could bring a different flair!

How to Make Hot Honey Chicken Tenders

Step 1: Prepare the Spice Blend

In a small bowl, combine salt, pepper, paprika, oregano, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mixing these spices together first allows their flavors to blend perfectly before they meet the chicken.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Place chicken tenderloins in a bowl with half of the spice blend and buttermilk. Let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes. This step is crucial because marinating helps tenderize the chicken and infuses it with flavor.

Step 3: Prepare the Coating

In a large brown paper bag or zippered plastic bag, mix together flour, cornstarch, and remaining spices. This method makes it easy to coat all sides of each tender without making a mess!

Step 4: Coat the Chicken

Dip each marinated chicken tender into the flour mixture. Be sure to shake off any excess buttermilk before coating. The goal is to completely cover each piece so they turn golden brown as they fry.

Step 5: Fry Until Golden

Heat oil in your frying pan to 350 degrees F. Fry each chicken tender for about three minutes on each side until fully cooked through. Keeping an eye on them ensures they don’t overcook—nobody wants dry chicken tenders!

Step 6: Make the Sauce

While your chicken cooks, combine hot sauce and honey in a saucepan over medium heat. Cook for about 2-3 minutes while whisking until smooth. This sweet and spicy sauce adds just the right zing!

Step 7: Coat and Serve

Once cooked through, remove your tenders from oil and let them rest on a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate. Then generously coat them with your hot honey sauce before serving. Enjoy every delicious bite!

Pro Tips for Making Hot Honey Chicken Tenders

Making the perfect hot honey chicken tenders is all about technique and flavor! Here are some helpful tips to ensure your tenders are a hit.

• Marinate for Flavor: Letting the chicken sit in buttermilk and spices not only tenderizes the meat but also infuses it with flavor, making each bite juicy and delicious.
• Double Coat for Crunch: For an extra crispy exterior, dip your tenders in the flour mixture twice. This creates a thicker crust that holds up beautifully during frying.
• Maintain Oil Temperature: Use a thermometer to keep your oil at 350 degrees F. This ensures that your chicken cooks evenly and doesn’t absorb too much oil, keeping it light and crispy.
• Rest After Frying: Allowing the fried tenders to rest on a wire rack prevents them from getting soggy. This way, they stay crunchy while you finish cooking or prepare your sauce.
• Customize Your Heat: Adjust the hot sauce in the honey mixture according to your spice preference. You can always start with less and add more, ensuring everyone enjoys their meal!

How to Serve Hot Honey Chicken Tenders

Serving hot honey chicken tenders can be a delightful experience, especially when paired with the right elements. Here are some creative ideas to make your dish shine!

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle some chopped parsley or cilantro over the tenders for a burst of color and freshness.
• Lemon Wedges: Serve with lemon wedges on the side. A squeeze of lemon adds a zesty brightness that complements the sweetness of the honey.
• Sliced Jalapeños: For those who love an extra kick, thinly sliced jalapeños can be a fantastic garnish, adding both color and heat.

Side Dishes

• Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: These fries offer a sweet contrast to the spicy chicken, making them a perfect pairing. Their crunchiness will complement each tender beautifully.
• Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw made with cabbage and carrots provides a cool crunch that balances out the heat of the chicken.
• Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob adds sweetness and is always a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.
• Macaroni and Cheese: Creamy mac and cheese serves as a comforting side that pairs well with fried foods, creating a satisfying meal everyone will love.

Enjoy crafting this delicious meal! Each bite of these hot honey chicken tenders promises to be bursting with flavor, perfect for any occasion.

Make Ahead and Storage

These hot honey chicken tenders are perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a batch ahead of time, store them, and enjoy them throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chicken tenders to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Let the cooked chicken tenders cool down entirely.
• Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer the frozen tenders to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in an oven preheated to 350 degrees F for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave them for about 1-2 minutes, though they may lose some crispiness.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about hot honey chicken tenders that might help you out!

Can I make Hot Honey Chicken Tenders gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free flour and cornstarch as substitutes in this recipe. The flavors will remain deliciously intact.

How spicy are Hot Honey Chicken Tenders?

The spice level depends on the hot sauce you choose. If you prefer milder flavors, opt for a less spicy sauce or adjust the amount used in the recipe.

Can I prepare Hot Honey Chicken Tenders ahead of time?

Yes! You can make these chicken tenders in advance and store them in the fridge or freezer. Just follow our storage tips above for optimal freshness.

What should I serve with Hot Honey Chicken Tenders?

These tenders pair wonderfully with dipping sauces like ranch or blue cheese. You could also serve them alongside a fresh salad or crispy fries!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these hot honey chicken tenders as much as I do! They’re not only irresistibly delicious but also incredibly easy to whip up for any occasion. Whether it’s a cozy dinner at home or a fun gathering with friends, these tenders are bound to be a hit. Enjoy every crispy bite, and don’t forget to share your experience with others! Happy cooking!