If you’re craving something crispy, sweet, and with a delightful kick, this Hot Honey Chicken Tenders Recipe is exactly what you need to brighten up your meal times. These chicken tenders are irresistibly crunchy on the outside, juicy and tender on the inside, and coated in a luscious hot honey sauce that perfectly balances heat and sweetness. It’s one of those dishes that grabs your attention from the first bite and keeps you coming back for more. Whether for game day, a weeknight dinner, or feeding a hungry crowd, this recipe makes sure everyone leaves the table happy and satisfied.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the ingredients for this Hot Honey Chicken Tenders Recipe is refreshingly straightforward, yet each one plays a crucial role in creating the perfect flavor and texture. From the spices that add warmth and depth, to the buttermilk that tenderizes the chicken, every component is essential and easy to find.
- Chicken tenderloins (1 lb, white tendon removed): The star protein, naturally tender and perfect for frying.
- Buttermilk (2 cups): Adds tang and helps tenderize the chicken for juicy results.
- All-purpose flour (1 1/2 cups): Forms the crispy coating that we all crave in fried tenders.
- Cornstarch (1/2 cup): Boosts the crunch factor by creating a light, crisp crust.
- Garlic powder (2 tsp): Infuses savory depth that’s key to the seasoning blend.
- Onion powder (1 tsp): Adds subtle sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
- Paprika (1 tsp): Brings a mild smokiness and a vibrant reddish hue.
- Oregano (1 tsp): Offers herbal undertones that balance the spice mix.
- Salt (1 1/2 tsp, or to taste): Essential for seasoning and enhancing all flavors.
- Black pepper (1/4 tsp, or to taste): Adds gentle heat and complexity.
- Hot sauce (1/2 cup): The spicy base of the sauce that gives it an exciting kick.
- Honey (1/2 cup): Sweetens and smooths out the heat to create that signature hot honey glaze.
- Oil (for frying): Use a neutral oil like vegetable or canola for perfect frying crispiness.
How to Make Hot Honey Chicken Tenders Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Begin by mixing salt, black pepper, paprika, oregano, garlic powder, and onion powder in a small bowl to create your flavorful spice blend. Add half of this mixture to the chicken tenderloins along with the buttermilk. This marinade not only tenderizes the chicken but also infuses it with wonderful layers of flavor. Let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes to work its magic.
Step 2: Coat the Chicken
Next, combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and the remaining spice blend in a large sealable bag or bowl. Take each chicken tender out of the buttermilk mixture and dredge it thoroughly in this dry mix, ensuring every inch is well coated. This step is crucial for building that satisfyingly crispy crust that makes these tenders such a favorite.
Step 3: Fry the Chicken
Heat your oil in a deep fryer or a large skillet to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Carefully fry the coated tenders for about 3 minutes on each side, until they turn a gorgeous golden brown and are cooked through. After frying, place them on a wire rack to drain excess oil and keep that beautiful crispiness intact — no soggy spots here!
Step 4: Make the Hot Honey Sauce
While the chicken is crisping up, it’s time to whip up the show-stopping sauce. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the hot sauce and honey. Whisk them together for 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened. This balance of spicy heat and honey’s natural sweetness makes the sauce addictive and perfect for coating the tenders.
Step 5: Coat and Serve
Finally, toss the freshly fried chicken tenders in the hot honey sauce until each piece is lovingly glazed. Serve immediately to enjoy the full experience of crispy, juicy chicken with that fiery-sweet glaze. Your friends and family will be asking for seconds in no time!
How to Serve Hot Honey Chicken Tenders Recipe
Garnishes
Brighten up your Hot Honey Chicken Tenders Recipe by adding fresh garnishes such as finely chopped parsley or cilantro. A sprinkle of sesame seeds can add a nice crunch and visual appeal, while a squeeze of fresh lemon or lime juice can provide a refreshing twist to brighten the flavors even further.
Side Dishes
These chicken tenders pair beautifully with cooling sides like creamy coleslaw, a crisp garden salad, or even a refreshing cucumber and tomato salad. For something heartier, consider oven-roasted sweet potato wedges or classic french fries. The balance of textures and flavors makes for a satisfying, well-rounded meal.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to get a bit fancy, serve your Hot Honey Chicken Tenders Recipe on a bed of fluffy rice or alongside a vibrant slaw tucked inside soft buns to create irresistible chicken tender sandwiches. Drizzle some extra hot honey sauce over the top for an eye-catching finish that will wow your guests every time.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store any leftover Hot Honey Chicken Tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep the tenders as crispy as possible, avoid covering them tightly while still warm, and add sauce just before serving again.
Freezing
To freeze, place cooked and cooled tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Freeze the hot honey sauce separately in a small container or jar so you can reheat and toss tenders fresh each time.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a preheated oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 minutes or until warmed through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving as it can make the coating soggy. For the best flavor, reheat the sauce gently on the stove and toss the tenders just before serving.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenderloins?
Absolutely! If using chicken breasts, cut them into strips similar in size to tenders to ensure even cooking. Marinating and coating just the same will give you fantastic results, though tenderloins naturally cook faster and remain more tender.
Is it possible to bake these instead of frying?
Yes, you can bake these chicken tenders for a healthier option. Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit, arrange the coated tenders on a greased baking sheet, spray lightly with oil, and bake for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and cooked through.
How spicy is the hot sauce in this recipe?
The heat level depends on the hot sauce you pick. For a milder version, go with a less spicy sauce or adjust the amount you use. For those who love a fiery bite, choose a hot sauce with punchier heat to amp up the flavor and spice.
Can I prepare the hot honey sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the hot honey sauce in advance and refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to a week. Reheat gently before tossing with the fried chicken tenders to maintain that perfect consistency and flavor.
What type of oil is best for frying the chicken?
Neutral oils with high smoke points like vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil work best for frying. They ensure crispiness without imparting extra flavors, making your Hot Honey Chicken Tenders Recipe shine in every bite.
Final Thoughts
This Hot Honey Chicken Tenders Recipe is a mouthwatering way to bring excitement to your dinner table with just a handful of simple ingredients and straightforward steps. The combination of crispy coating, juicy chicken, and that luscious hot honey glaze is pure magic and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Trust me, once you try it, it might just become your new favorite go-to recipe for feeding friends and family with irresistible flavor and comfort.
Print
Hot Honey Chicken Tenders Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 16 minutes
- Total Time: 26 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Hot Honey Chicken Tenders recipe features crispy, tender chicken marinated in buttermilk and a flavorful blend of spices, then fried to golden perfection. The tenders are tossed in a sweet and spicy hot honey sauce, delivering a delicious balance of heat and sweetness perfect for a satisfying snack or meal.
Ingredients
Chicken and Marinade
- 1 lb chicken tenderloins, white tendon removed
- 2 cups buttermilk
- 1/2 tsp salt (half of 1 1/2 tsp)
- 1/8 tsp black pepper (half of 1/4 tsp)
- 1/2 tsp paprika (half of 1 tsp)
- 1/2 tsp oregano (half of 1 tsp)
- 1 tsp garlic powder (half of 2 tsp)
- 1/2 tsp onion powder (half of 1 tsp)
Coating
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 tsp salt (remaining half of 1 1/2 tsp, or to taste)
- 1/8 tsp black pepper (remaining half of 1/4 tsp, or to taste)
- 1/2 tsp paprika (remaining half of 1 tsp)
- 1/2 tsp oregano (remaining half of 1 tsp)
- 1 tsp garlic powder (remaining half of 2 tsp)
- 1/2 tsp onion powder (remaining half of 1 tsp)
Hot Honey Sauce
- 1/2 cup hot sauce
- 1/2 cup honey
For Frying
- Oil, for frying (enough to deep fry or shallow fry the chicken tenders)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: In a small bowl, combine salt, black pepper, paprika, oregano, garlic powder, and onion powder. Add half of this spice blend along with the chicken tenderloins and buttermilk to a bowl. Mix well and let the chicken marinate at room temperature for 20 minutes to tenderize and infuse flavor.
- Coat the Chicken: In a large sealable bag or bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and the remaining half of the spice blend. Remove the chicken tenders from the buttermilk marinade, letting excess drip off, then dip each piece into the flour mixture thoroughly to create an even, crispy coating.
- Fry the Chicken: Heat oil in a deep fryer or large skillet to 350°F (175°C). Carefully fry the coated chicken tenders for about 3 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and fully cooked through. Once fried, transfer them to a wire rack to drain excess oil and maintain crispiness.
- Make the Hot Honey Sauce: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the hot sauce and honey. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, whisking frequently until the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened, creating a perfect balance of sweetness and heat.
- Coat and Serve: Toss the fried chicken tenders in the hot honey sauce until evenly coated. Serve immediately while still hot and crispy to enjoy the optimal flavor and texture.
Notes
- Ensure the oil temperature is consistently at 350°F for even frying and crispiness.
- Use a wire rack for draining fried tenders to prevent sogginess compared to paper towels.
- Adjust the amount of hot sauce or honey in the sauce to make it spicier or sweeter according to preference.
- Marinating the chicken for at least 20 minutes helps tenderize and flavor the meat but do not exceed 1 hour at room temperature for safety.
- Leftover tenders can be reheated in an oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness.
