If you’re looking for a dish that’s both comforting and full of flavor, you’ve come to the right place! Hot Honey Chicken Tenders are a fantastic way to spice up any meal. Imagine juicy chicken strips coated in a crispy shell, drenched in a sweet and spicy honey glaze. It’s the perfect combination that will make your taste buds dance!

This recipe is dear to my heart because it’s incredibly easy to whip up, making it ideal for busy weeknights or fun family gatherings. Whether you’re indulging yourself on a quiet evening at home or impressing friends during game night, these tenders are sure to be a hit. Trust me; once you try them, they’ll become a beloved staple in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic evenings.
Kid-Friendly: The crunchy coating and sweet glaze appeal to kids and adults alike—it’s hard to resist!
Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the chicken strips in advance and fry them just before serving for fresh deliciousness.
Customizable Flavors: Adjust the heat level or try different dipping sauces to make this dish your own.
Perfect for Sharing: Whether you’re hosting or just enjoying with family, these tenders are great for sharing!

Ingredients You’ll Need

You don’t need fancy ingredients for this recipe—just simple, wholesome items that you probably already have in your pantry! 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 Hot Honey Chicken Tenders is their flexibility! You can easily adapt this recipe based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

Swap the protein: Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier bite.
Make it gluten-free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour and cornstarch.
Spice it up: Add cayenne pepper or chili flakes into the flour mixture for extra heat.
Add herbs: Mix in fresh herbs like parsley or thyme into the coating for added flavor.

How to Make Hot Honey Chicken Tenders

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by drying off the chicken breasts with paper towels. This step is important because it helps the coating stick better! Next, slice them into strips about an inch wide. The uniformity will ensure even cooking.

Step 2: Set Up Your Dredging Station

Now it’s time to set up your dredging station! In one bowl, whisk together the eggs until they’re frothy. In another bowl, mix together the flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. This mixture will provide that delicious crunch we all love!

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Take each chicken strip and dip it first into the egg wash, letting any excess drip off. Then coat it thoroughly in your flour mixture. Make sure each piece is well-covered; this will give you that irresistible crispy texture once fried.

Step 4: Heat the Oil

In a skillet over medium heat, add enough oil to cover the bottom about half an inch deep. Heating the oil properly is crucial—it should shimmer and be hot enough so that when you add the chicken strips, they sizzle immediately.

Step 5: Fry Until Golden Brown

Carefully place chicken strips into the hot oil and fry them for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer if you have one—the internal temperature should reach at least 165°F.

Step 6: Drizzle with Hot Honey

Once cooked, drain your chicken tenders on paper towels to remove excess oil. Now comes the best part—drizzle them generously with hot honey before serving! This adds that sweet heat that makes these tenders so special.

And there you have it! A delightful plate of Hot Honey Chicken Tenders ready to enjoy. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce for an extra burst of flavor!

Pro Tips for Making Hot Honey Chicken Tenders

Creating the perfect Hot Honey Chicken Tenders is simpler than you might think, especially with these helpful tips!

Marinate for Extra Flavor: Allowing the chicken to soak in spices and hot honey for at least 30 minutes can enhance the flavor profile, making your tenders even more delicious.
Use a Thermometer: To ensure perfectly cooked chicken, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F for safe and juicy tenders.
Don’t Crowd the Pan: Frying too many chicken strips at once can lower the oil temperature, resulting in soggy tenders. Fry in batches to maintain that crispy texture.
Experiment with Spices: Customize your flour mixture by adding herbs like oregano or cayenne pepper for an extra kick. This will allow you to tailor the flavors to your liking.
Store Properly for Leftovers: For the best results when reheating, store leftover tenders in an airtight container. Reheat them in the oven or air fryer to restore their original crispiness.

How to Serve Hot Honey Chicken Tenders

Hot Honey Chicken Tenders are not just a tasty treat; they also make for an impressive presentation! Here are some ideas on how to serve them beautifully.

Garnishes

Chopped Fresh Herbs: Sprinkling chopped parsley or cilantro on top adds a pop of color and freshness.
Sliced Green Onions: A scattering of green onions brings a mild bite and brightens up the dish visually.

Side Dishes

Crispy Coleslaw: A creamy coleslaw offers a refreshing crunch that complements the spiciness of the hot honey.
Sweet Potato Fries: These sweet and salty fries provide a satisfying contrast to the heat of the chicken tenders.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Comforting mashed potatoes with a hint of garlic balance out the flavors and create a hearty meal.
Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal roasted vegetables adds nutrition and vibrant colors, enhancing both taste and presentation.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’re all set to impress your family or guests with your delightful homemade Hot Honey Chicken Tenders!

Make Ahead and Storage

Hot Honey Chicken Tenders are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy this delicious dish throughout the week. Their crispy texture and exciting flavor make them an excellent choice for quick lunches or dinners.

Storing Leftovers

Place cooled chicken tenders in an airtight container.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
If layering in the container, place parchment paper between layers to maintain crispiness.

Freezing

Allow the chicken tenders to cool completely before freezing.
Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

For best results, reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy.
Alternatively, use an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes.
Microwave is an option too, but it may not keep the tenders crispy—heat in short intervals until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Hot Honey Chicken Tenders:

Can I marinate the chicken before making Hot Honey Chicken Tenders?

Yes! Marinating the chicken in spices and hot honey adds extra flavor. Aim for at least 30 minutes or overnight for optimal taste.

How do I customize my hot honey for Hot Honey Chicken Tenders?

You can customize your hot honey by mixing additional spices like cayenne or garlic powder, or substitute with maple syrup for a different sweetness profile.

What dipping sauces pair well with Hot Honey Chicken Tenders?

Classic options like ranch or honey mustard work well, but feel free to experiment with spicy mayo or a tangy barbecue sauce!

Can I make Hot Honey Chicken Tenders gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure your cornstarch is certified gluten-free.

How do I prevent my Hot Honey Chicken Tenders from getting soggy?

To maintain their crunchiness, store them properly and reheat them in the oven or air fryer instead of microwaving.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these delicious Hot Honey Chicken Tenders as much as I do! This recipe is not only simple but also brings together sweet and spicy flavors that will delight your taste buds. Whether you’re serving them at a gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, they’re sure to impress. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe—I can’t wait to hear how yours turn out!