- 1 lb chicken tenders (or boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into strips)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (or regular breadcrumbs for a finer texture)
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Hot Honey Glaze:
- 1/2 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons hot sauce (like Sriracha or Frank’s RedHot)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice)
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for added heat)
For Serving:
- Optional: Ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping
- Optional: Chopped parsley or green onions for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken Tenders
- Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper.
- Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls:
- Bowl 1: Place the flour.
- Bowl 2: Beat the eggs.
- Bowl 3: Add the panko breadcrumbs.
2. Bread the Chicken
- Dredge each chicken tender in the flour, shaking off any excess.
- Dip the floured tender into the beaten eggs, ensuring it’s fully coated.
- Press the tender into the panko breadcrumbs, coating evenly on all sides. Press gently to help the crumbs adhere.
3. Fry the Chicken
- Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat (about 350°F/175°C).
- Fry the breaded chicken tenders in batches for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C).
- Transfer the cooked tenders to a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
4. Make the Hot Honey Glaze
- In a small saucepan over low heat, combine the honey, hot sauce, apple cider vinegar, and optional red pepper flakes.
- Stir continuously until the mixture is warm and well combined. Remove from heat.
5. Glaze the Tenders
- Drizzle the hot honey glaze generously over the fried chicken tenders, or toss the tenders in the glaze for even coating.
- Optional: Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions for a pop of color.
6. Serve and Enjoy
- Serve the hot honey chicken tenders warm with ranch or blue cheese dressing on the side for dipping.
- Enjoy every bite of these crispy, spicy, and sweet tenders!
- Pair with fries, coleslaw, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic powder and high-quality honey make a noticeable difference in flavor.
- Adjust Spice Level: Use more or less hot sauce and red pepper flakes to control the heat.
- Make It Healthier: Bake the chicken tenders in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway, instead of frying.
- Double the Glaze: Make extra hot honey glaze to drizzle over other dishes like wings, sandwiches, or roasted veggies.
- Freeze for Later: Freeze uncooked breaded tenders on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Cook directly from frozen, adding 1–2 minutes to the frying time.
Why This Recipe Works
These Hot Honey Chicken Tenders combine the crunch of a perfectly fried breading with the bold flavors of a sweet and spicy glaze. The result is a dish that’s indulgent yet balanced, with layers of texture and flavor that keep you coming back for more. Whether served as an appetizer, main course, or snack, this recipe delivers big on taste and simplicity without requiring advanced cooking skills.
Conclusion: A Dish Everyone Will Love
Whether you’re craving something crispy and indulgent, looking for a way to spice up chicken tenders, or simply want to impress your guests, these Hot Honey Chicken Tenders are sure to delight. Their bold flavors, satisfying textures, and customizable options make them a standout recipe that’s as practical as it is delicious. Plus, their adaptability means you can tailor them to suit any occasion.
We’d love to see your creations! Tag us in your photos or share your favorite variations—your take on these tenders might just inspire others to try them too! 🌶️✨
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