Hot Honey Chicken Tenders – Irresistibly Spicy & Sweet
Hey y’all! If you’re searching for a deliciously spicy twist on a classic favorite, then these Hot Honey Chicken Tenders are for you! They’re perfectly crispy, with a sweet and spicy kick that’s sure to wow at any gathering, whether it’s a family dinner or a casual game night with friends. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This
- Perfectly balanced flavor with a sweet and spicy honey glaze.
- Easy to make and ready in just 30 minutes.
- Crispy and juicy texture that’s simply irresistible.
- Great for meal prep and leftovers.
- Family-friendly and sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken tenderloins
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons hot sauce
- Oil for frying (such as vegetable or canola oil)
Directions
Prepare the Chicken
In a shallow dish, combine the flour, salt, pepper, and paprika. In another dish, beat the eggs. Place the breadcrumbs in a third dish.
Bread the Chicken Tenders
Dip each chicken tenderloin first in the flour mixture, then in the egg, and finally coat with breadcrumbs. Set aside on a plate.
Fry to Perfection
Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the chicken tenders in batches for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.
Make the Hot Honey Sauce
In a small saucepan, combine honey and hot sauce. Heat gently over low heat, stirring until well combined.
Coat and Serve
Drizzle the hot honey sauce over the fried chicken tenders. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- For a healthier option, bake the chicken tenders at 400°F for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through. Check out Food Network for more baking tips.
- Adjust the spiciness of the sauce by using more or less hot sauce to suit your taste.
- To make the tenders extra crispy, use Panko breadcrumbs.
Variations
- Garlic Parmesan Tenders: Add grated Parmesan and garlic powder to the breadcrumb mixture.
- Buffalo Tenders: Swap the hot honey sauce for buffalo sauce.
- Asian-Inspired Tenders: Use soy sauce and ginger in the sauce for a savory twist.
Required Equipment
- Shallow dishes
- Large skillet
- Small saucepan
- Paper towels
Storage Instructions
Store leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to retain crispiness.
Suggested Pairings
Serve these tenders with a side of coleslaw, sweet potato fries, or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal.
Pro Tips
- Let the breaded chicken rest for a few minutes before frying to help the coating adhere better.
- For a golden brown finish, ensure the oil is hot before adding the chicken. Check out this Serious Eats article for frying tips.
- Use a thermometer to ensure the oil temperature stays consistent.
FAQ
- Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenderloins? Yes, simply cut them into strips similar in size to tenderloins.
- How do I make the sauce less spicy? Reduce the amount of hot sauce or add more honey to balance the heat.
- Can I make these gluten-free? Substitute the flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives.
