Hot honey chicken tenders are the ideal choice if you’re looking for a dish that perfectly combines sweetness and heat. These crispy, juicy chicken tenders coated in a delicious honey and hot sauce glaze offer a flavor combination that’s simply irresistible. Whether you’re preparing a meal for the family or impressing guests at a party, hot honey chicken tenders are always a crowd-pleaser. To learn more about the best oils for frying, check out this guide for tips on achieving the perfect crisp.
Why You’ll Love Hot Honey Chicken Tenders
These tenders stand out because they strike the perfect balance between sweet and spicy. The honey provides a smooth sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the tangy heat of the hot sauce, resulting in a bite that’s both comforting and exciting. For those interested in exploring other flavor-packed dishes, you might also enjoy this Cajun shrimp Alfredo recipe, another dish that combines richness and spice.
Pairing hot honey chicken tenders with a side of mac and cheese or a fresh salad creates a well-rounded meal. If you’re looking for a refreshing side dish to complement the tenders, consider this kale and quinoa salad, which provides a light and nutritious balance.
Essential Ingredients for Hot Honey Chicken Tenders
To make these irresistible hot honey chicken tenders, you’ll need:
- Chicken tenderloins or chicken breast strips
- Buttermilk – for marinating and tenderizing the chicken
- Flour and cornstarch mixture – for a crispy coating
- Hot sauce – adds the heat
- Honey – for the sweet, sticky glaze
- Spices – garlic powder, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper
Using buttermilk is key because it helps tenderize the chicken while adding a subtle tang. The combination of flour and cornstarch creates the ideal crunchy texture, while the hot sauce and honey provide a delicious balance of sweet and spicy flavors. If you’re a fan of comfort food, you might also want to try this classic baked macaroni and cheese, another family favorite.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Hot Honey Chicken Tenders
1. Marinate the Chicken
Start by marinating the chicken tenderloins in buttermilk mixed with your chosen spices. Let the chicken soak for at least 20 minutes to absorb the flavors and tenderize the meat.
2. Coat the Chicken
After marinating, coat the tenders in a mixture of flour, cornstarch, and additional spices. Make sure each piece is thoroughly coated for maximum crunch.
3. Fry or Bake the Tenders
For the crispiest tenders, frying is recommended. Heat oil to 350°F and fry each tender for about 3 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. For a lighter alternative, bake the tenders at 400°F for 15–20 minutes. While baking offers a healthier option, frying ensures the crispiest result.
If you’re interested in more frying techniques, check out this guide to frying scallops for a delicious seafood variation.
4. Make the Hot Honey Sauce
While the chicken is cooking, prepare the sauce by combining honey and hot sauce in a small saucepan. Heat the mixture over medium heat for 2–3 minutes, whisking until smooth. You can easily adjust the heat level by adding more hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
5. Coat the Tenders
Once the tenders are fried or baked to perfection, toss them in the hot honey sauce, making sure they’re evenly coated. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Tips for Perfect Hot Honey Chicken Tenders
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Fry in small batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, ensuring the chicken cooks evenly and remains crispy.
- Serve with extra hot honey sauce on the side for dipping to enhance the flavor.
Nutritional Information
Each serving of hot honey chicken tenders contains approximately 289 calories, 47 grams of carbohydrates, 17 grams of protein, and 4 grams of fat. Baking or using an air fryer can reduce the fat content while still delivering delicious results.
Recipe Variations
Want to switch things up? Try one of these variations:
- Extra Spicy Tenders: Increase the amount of hot sauce or add cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
- Gluten-Free Tenders: Substitute the flour with gluten-free alternatives, such as almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend.
- Air-Fried Tenders: Air-fry the tenders at 400°F for 12–15 minutes for a healthier option that still delivers crunch.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I adjust the heat level of the sauce?
Yes! You can make the sauce spicier by adding more hot sauce or even some cayenne pepper.
Can I bake the tenders instead of frying them?
Absolutely. Baking is a healthier alternative, and while the tenders won’t be quite as crispy as fried, they’ll still be delicious.
What sides pair well with hot honey chicken tenders?
Some great side dishes include coleslaw, mac and cheese, or this kale and quinoa salad.
Conclusion
Hot honey chicken tenders offer the perfect mix of sweet and spicy, making them an irresistible dish for any occasion. Whether you fry, bake, or air fry them, these tenders are guaranteed to satisfy everyone at the table. Customize the heat level and pair them with your favorite sides for a complete and delicious meal. Looking to try another flavorful dish? You’ll love the creamy richness of this Cajun shrimp Alfredo for your next meal!
