Hot Honey Chicken Tenders are a deliciously spicy and sweet twist on the classic chicken tender. These crispy, golden-brown tenders are coated in a flavorful mixture of spices, then drizzled with a homemade hot honey sauce that adds a delightful kick to each bite. The combination of the crunchy exterior and the juicy, tender chicken inside, paired with the sweet heat of the honey glaze, creates a mouthwatering experience that’s perfect for game days, parties, or a fun family dinner. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce for a dish that’s sure to impress and satisfy any crowd.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Tenders:
- 1 pound chicken tenders
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornmeal
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Hot Honey Sauce:
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce (such as sriracha or your choice)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
Instructions
- Marinate the chicken: Place the chicken tenders in a bowl and cover them with buttermilk. Let them marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours for more flavor.
- Prepare the breading: In a shallow dish, combine the flour, cornmeal, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Coat the chicken: Remove the chicken tenders from the buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off. Dredge each tender in the flour mixture, pressing lightly to adhere the coating.
- Heat the oil: In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the chicken: Carefully add the breaded chicken tenders to the hot oil, frying in batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the oil and drain on paper towels.
- Make the hot honey sauce: In a small saucepan, combine the honey, hot sauce, butter, and red pepper flakes. Heat over low heat, stirring until the butter is melted and the sauce is well combined.
- Coat the tenders: Drizzle the hot honey sauce over the cooked chicken tenders or toss them in a bowl to coat them evenly.
- Serve: Serve the hot honey chicken tenders with your favorite dipping sauce.
Enjoy your Hot Honey Chicken Tenders as a flavorful and spicy-sweet treat that’s sure to be a hit with everyone!
