If you’re looking for a fun and flavorful dish that will impress your family and friends, let me introduce you to my Hot Honey Chicken Tenders! These tenders are not just any ordinary chicken, but a scrumptious combination of crispy coating and a sweet yet spicy honey glaze. They’re perfect for busy weeknights when you need something quick but delicious or for special gatherings where you want to wow your guests.

What makes this recipe so special is how easy it is to prepare. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up a batch of these tasty tenders in no time. Plus, they are great for dipping, making them an instant hit at any occasion!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 35 minutes, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or last-minute entertaining.
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the sweet and spicy flavors of these tenders. They’re sure to be a hit at the dinner table!
Versatile: Serve them with your favorite dipping sauces or pair them with sides like fries or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Make-Ahead Friendly: You can marinate the chicken ahead of time or even freeze the breaded tenders before frying for later use.
Delicious Flavor: The combination of hot honey with crispy chicken creates an irresistible taste that will keep everyone coming back for more.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make these Hot Honey Chicken Tenders, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients. Don’t worry; most of these are likely staples in your kitchen already! Here’s what you’ll need:

3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup cornstarch
2 large eggs
1/2 cup hot honey (store-bought or homemade)
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Canola or vegetable oil for frying

Variations

One of the best parts about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with flavors and ingredients. Here are some fun variations to try:

Swap the protein: Instead of chicken breasts, use chicken thighs for extra juiciness or even try tofu strips for a plant-based option.
Customize the heat: If you prefer milder flavors, use regular honey with a hint of chili flakes instead of hot honey.
Add spices: Experiment by adding different spices to the flour mixture, such as cayenne pepper or Italian seasoning for an herbaceous twist.
Try different coatings: For added crunch, consider using crushed cornflakes or panko breadcrumbs instead of flour.

How to Make Hot Honey Chicken Tenders

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by drying the chicken breasts with paper towels. This step is crucial because it helps the coating stick better when you dredge them. Next, slice each breast into strips about an inch wide—this ensures they cook evenly and quickly.

Step 2: Set Up Your Dredging Station

Create an assembly line: whisk the eggs in one bowl while mixing the flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper in another bowl. Having everything ready makes it easy to coat each piece without making a mess!

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Dip each chicken strip into the egg wash first; this helps the dry mixture adhere well. Then coat thoroughly with the flour mixture. Don’t be shy—make sure every bit is covered; this is what gives your tenders that lovely crunch!

Step 4: Heat the Oil

In a skillet over medium heat, pour enough oil to cover the bottom about half an inch deep. It’s important not to rush this step; allowing your oil to reach the right temperature ensures that your chicken turns golden brown rather than greasy.

Step 5: Fry Until Golden Brown

Carefully place your coated chicken strips in the hot oil. Fry them for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown and cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F). This step brings out that irresistible crunch we all love!

Step 6: Drizzle with Hot Honey

Once cooked, drain your chicken tenders on paper towels. While they’re still warm, drizzle generously with hot honey. This final touch adds that signature sweetness and spice that makes these tenders truly unforgettable!

Now you’re ready to enjoy these delicious Hot Honey Chicken Tenders! Pair them with your favorite dipping sauce and watch them disappear from your table in no time!

Pro Tips for Making Hot Honey Chicken Tenders

Making the perfect Hot Honey Chicken Tenders is all about the little details that elevate this dish to a whole new level. Here are some pro tips to ensure your tenders turn out crispy, flavorful, and utterly delicious!

Marinate for Maximum Flavor: For added depth of flavor, consider marinating the chicken strips in a mixture of spices and hot honey for at least 30 minutes before coating. This will infuse the chicken with a spicy sweetness that enhances every bite.
Use a Thermometer for Perfect Cooking: To avoid undercooked or overcooked chicken, use an instant-read thermometer to check for doneness. The internal temperature should reach 165°F, ensuring juicy and safe-to-eat tenders every time.
Make Your Own Hot Honey: If you’re feeling adventurous, try making your own hot honey by mixing honey with a bit of chili oil or crushed red pepper flakes. This allows you to control the spice level and create a unique flavor profile tailored to your taste.
Keep the Oil at the Right Temperature: Maintaining the oil temperature around 350°F while frying is crucial. Too low, and the chicken will absorb excess oil; too high, and it might burn before cooking through. Use a thermometer or drop a small piece of bread into the oil—if it sizzles immediately, you’re good to go!
Serve Immediately for Optimal Crispiness: For that irresistible crunch, serve your chicken tenders right after frying. If you need to hold them for a bit, place them on a wire rack in an oven set to warm instead of stacking them on a plate; this prevents steam from making them soggy.

How to Serve Hot Honey Chicken Tenders

Presenting your Hot Honey Chicken Tenders can be just as exciting as making them! With the right garnishes and side dishes, you can create an eye-catching and mouth-watering meal that everyone will love.

Garnishes

Chopped Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of chopped parsley or cilantro adds a fresh touch that brightens up the dish and enhances its visual appeal.
Lemon Wedges: Serve with lemon wedges on the side for an extra zing! A squeeze of fresh lemon juice pairs beautifully with the sweetness of hot honey.
Sliced Green Onions: Adding sliced green onions not only provides color but also introduces a mild onion flavor that complements the chicken perfectly.

Side Dishes

Crispy French Fries: Classic and beloved, crispy French fries provide a satisfying crunch and make for a perfect dipping companion for your tenders.
Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds brightness and texture. The creamy dressing balances out the sweet heat of the chicken while adding refreshing crunch.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted veggies like carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini offer nutritious color and flavor contrast while rounding out your meal beautifully.
Garlic Bread: Warm garlic bread is always a hit! Its buttery goodness pairs well with any sauce you choose for dipping and makes your meal feel extra special.

With these serving suggestions and tips in hand, your Hot Honey Chicken Tenders will not only taste amazing but also look like they came straight from a gourmet kitchen! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

Hot Honey Chicken Tenders are not only delicious but also make for fantastic meal prep! You can prepare them ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy this savory treat whenever the craving strikes.

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container.
Refrigerate them within two hours of cooking for optimal freshness.
They will keep well for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing

Place cooled chicken tenders in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
Once frozen, transfer them into a freezer-safe bag or container.
They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just remember to label the container with the date!

Reheating

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Arrange the chicken tenders on a baking sheet and cover loosely with aluminum foil.
Heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through and crispy. Alternatively, you can reheat them in an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes.

FAQs

If you have any questions about making Hot Honey Chicken Tenders, you’re not alone! Here are some common queries:

Can I make Hot Honey Chicken Tenders without frying?

Yes! You can bake these chicken tenders by placing them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and baking at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes. This method yields a healthier version without losing flavor.

What can I serve with Hot Honey Chicken Tenders?

These delicious tenders pair wonderfully with dipping sauces like ranch, BBQ sauce, or even a tangy yogurt dip. Side dishes like coleslaw or sweet potato fries also complement their flavor beautifully.

How do I customize my Hot Honey recipe?

Feel free to experiment! You can mix in spices like cayenne pepper or garlic powder to your hot honey, or substitute maple syrup for a different sweetness profile. The possibilities are endless!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Hot Honey Chicken Tenders as much as I do! With their perfect blend of spice and sweetness, they’re bound to become a favorite in your home. Enjoy every bite and feel free to share your experiences or variations with me. Happy cooking!