Hot Honey Chicken Tenders

This crispy hot honey chicken tender recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick but satisfying. The blend of spicy and sweet makes every bite exciting without being overpowering. It’s one of those dishes you can easily whip up with stuff you likely have in your pantry and fridge.

I remember making this after a last-minute craving and it instantly became a household favorite for casual dinners and game days.

Ingredients

• Chicken breasts: cut into strips for quick even cooking and easy dipping
• All-purpose flour: for crisp coating that browns nicely
• Cornstarch: adds extra crunch, making the coating light and crispy
• Eggs: act as a binder to help the flour mixture stick firmly
• Hot honey: is key to balancing spicy heat with sweetness& choose a good quality brand or make your own
• Garlic powder: adds a subtle savory background flavor
• Smoked paprika: gives a warm smoky undertone without needing a smoker
• Salt and pepper: to enhance all flavors naturally
• Neutral oil like canola or vegetable: works best for frying because they handle heat well

Instructions

Build The Dredging Station:

Dry the chicken strips thoroughly with paper towels this step is essential to get the coating to stick properly. Whisk the eggs in one bowl until smooth. In another bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper so each chicken piece will be evenly seasoned.

Coat The Chicken:

Dip each strip first into the egg wash to moisten it fully then immediately coat it in the flour mixture, pressing gently to create an even layer. If you want the extra crunch, double dredge by repeating the egg and flour steps again.

Heat The Oil:

Pour enough oil into a skillet to cover the bottom about half an inch deep. Heat over medium so that when you flick a little flour mix into the oil it bubbles actively but does not smoke. This helps achieve a golden crust while cooking the interior fully.

Fry The Tenders:

Place the coated chicken strips carefully in the hot oil without crowding the pan to keep the temperature steady. Fry each side about 4 to 5 minutes until they turn golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Use a thermometer for accuracy and safety.

Drain And Glaze:

Remove the chicken tenders to a paper towel lined plate to drain excess oil. Once slightly drained but still warm, drizzle the hot honey generously over the tenders. The warmth helps the honey spread evenly and soak just a little into the crust for flavor balance.

This recipe always brings back memories of casual family nights around the kitchen table where everyone reaches for seconds.

Storage Tips

Cooked chicken tenders will keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat in your oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 minutes to restore crispness or use an air fryer if you have one. Avoid microwaving as it makes the coating soggy.

Ingredient Swaps

Use sweet chili sauce mixed with honey if you want a more pronounced Asian-inspired glaze. Panko breadcrumbs can replace the flour mixture for a coarser crunch. Try turkey breast strips as a leaner alternative but monitor cooking time as they tend to dry out faster.

Serving Ideas

Serve with a simple coleslaw or crunchy salad to cut through the richness. Pair with a cooling yogurt or ranch dipping sauce to balance the heat. Throw together a quick rice bowl topped with the tenders and steamed greens for a complete meal.

This hot honey chicken tender recipe delivers irresistible flavor and crispness with minimal effort.

Frequently Asked Recipe Questions

→ What type of chicken is best for preparing this dish?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts sliced into strips are ideal for even cooking and tender texture.

→ How can I achieve extra crispy chicken tenders?

Double dredging the chicken strips in the flour mixture after the egg wash helps build a thicker, crispier crust.

→ What is a good way to make the hot honey glaze spicy but balanced?

Using store-bought hot honey or combining honey with chili flakes gives a balanced sweet heat. Adjust the amount to suit your spice preference.

→ How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Cook chicken strips until golden brown and ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for food safety.

→ What oil is best for frying chicken tenders?

Canola or vegetable oil with a high smoke point works well to fry the chicken evenly and achieve a crispy crust.