If you crave sweet and spicy with a crispy twist, hot honey chicken tenders might become a favorite. Imagine a tender piece of chicken with golden-brown crunch, glazed in a spicy honey sauce. This recipe brings easy comfort with a satisfying bite, and it’s surprisingly simple. From start to finish, every step brings that perfect balance of heat, sweetness, and crunch.
Ready for a dish that leaves an impression?
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Chicken tenders | 1 pound |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Black pepper | 1 teaspoon |
| Garlic powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Paprika | 1/2 teaspoon |
| All-purpose flour | 1 cup |
| Eggs | 2, beaten |
| Panko breadcrumbs | 1 cup |
| Honey | 1/2 cup |
| Hot sauce | 2 tablespoons |
| Red pepper flakes (optional) | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Oil (for frying) | Enough for shallow frying |
Cooking Time
- Preparation: 10 minutes
- Cooking: 15 minutes
- Total: 25 minutes
Making Hot Honey Chicken Tenders
Start with chicken tenders—pat them dry for better seasoning. Season each piece with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika for extra flavor. Even without the honey glaze, this mix gives chicken a satisfying taste.
Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls. Place flour in one, beaten eggs in another, and panko in the last. This setup keeps things neat while breading each tender.
Dredge each chicken piece in flour, shaking off any excess. Coat with egg next, letting any excess drip off. Finish by pressing chicken into panko, ensuring full coverage. Panko creates a crispier crust that holds up perfectly.
For frying, heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. You want enough heat for a quick fry without overcooking. Test by dropping a breadcrumb into oil—if it sizzles, you’re ready.
Add chicken tenders, a few at a time, so they don’t crowd. Fry each side for about 3 minutes, flipping once. Aim for a deep golden crust that looks irresistible. Remove and place on a paper towel-lined plate, letting them cool slightly.
Making Hot Honey Glaze
While tenders rest, prepare the hot honey glaze. Warm honey and hot sauce together in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir gently until fully combined. Adjust hot sauce to taste, adding more for extra kick. A pinch of red pepper flakes gives a bit more spice, though optional.
Finishing Touch
Drizzle hot honey glaze over crispy tenders, coating each one. If preferred, serve sauce on the side for dipping, giving everyone control over the heat level. The mix of spicy honey with crispy chicken creates a balance that’s hard to beat.
Serving Tips
Hot honey chicken tenders pair well with cooling sides—think creamy coleslaw or a simple green salad. A side of ranch or blue cheese dressing also balances the spice, adding another layer of flavor. Fresh, buttery biscuits or cornbread complete the meal.
Pro Tips for Success
- Extra Crunch: Double dip tenders by repeating flour and egg before panko. It builds a thicker crust, great for those who love extra crunch.
- Adjusting Heat: For mild heat, use less hot sauce. More red pepper flakes create a deeper heat that lingers.
- Oven Option: For a lighter version, bake tenders at 400°F (about 204°C) for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway. You get crispy results without frying.
Storage and Reheating
Leftover tenders keep well for a day or two when stored in a sealed container. Reheat in an oven or air fryer for best results, restoring that crispy texture. Microwaving may soften the crust, so try to avoid it if possible.
Final Thoughts
Hot honey chicken tenders offer a perfect blend of flavors, making each bite unforgettable. It’s a recipe worth trying, whether for a fun family dinner or a solo treat. The mix of sweet and spicy leaves a lasting impression—expect everyone to reach for seconds! Enjoy this honey hot chicken recipe as an easy favorite you’ll return to again and again.
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