Savor the Flavor with Hot Honey Chicken Tenders in 30 Minutes!

Prepare to indulge in a flavor explosion with our irresistible Hot Honey Chicken Tenders! This dish combines the perfect balance of spicy and sweet, creating a mouthwatering sensation that will have your taste buds dancing with joy. Whether you’re hosting a game-day gathering, craving a bold family dinner, or simply looking for a new and exciting recipe, these Hot Honey Chicken Tenders are sure to become a new favorite.

Table of Contents

Ingredients for Hot Honey Chicken Tenders

To craft these delectable Hot Honey Chicken Tenders, you’ll need a few key ingredients that come together to create a flavor-packed masterpiece. Let’s dive in and explore the components that make this dish so irresistible.

For the Chicken Tenders

• 1.5 lb chicken tenders or boneless chicken breasts (cut into strips)
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• Oil for frying (vegetable, peanut, or canola)

For the Hot Honey Sauce

• ½ cup honey
• 2 tbsp hot sauce (e.g., Frank’s RedHot)
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tsp red pepper flakes
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar

Optional Sides/Dips

• Ranch dressing
• Coleslaw
• Pickles
• Garlic aioli

Step-by-Step Instructions for Preparing Hot Honey Chicken Tenders

Marinate Chicken

In a large bowl, combine chicken strips and buttermilk. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours for extra tenderness.

Prep Breading Station

In one shallow bowl, mix flour, panko, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.

Bread Chicken

Remove chicken from the buttermilk and dredge each piece in the flour-panko mixture, pressing gently to coat evenly. Set aside on a plate.

Heat Oil

In a deep skillet or heavy-bottomed pot, heat oil to 350°F (175°C).

Fry Chicken

Carefully fry chicken tenders in batches for 4–6 minutes, or until golden brown and fully cooked inside. Drain on paper towels.

Make Hot Honey Sauce

In a small saucepan, combine honey, hot sauce, butter, red pepper flakes, and apple cider vinegar. Heat over medium heat, stirring until melted and combined.

Coat Chicken

Brush or drizzle hot honey sauce over the fried chicken tenders while still warm.

Serve

Pair the Hot Honey Chicken Tenders with ranch dressing, pickles, garlic aioli, or coleslaw for a mouthwatering, spicy-sweet bite. These are perfect for game day, parties, or a bold family dinner!

Tips for Perfectly Fried Chicken Tenders

Achieving perfectly crispy and tender Hot Honey Chicken Tenders is all about paying attention to a few key details. First, be sure to maintain the oil temperature at a consistent 350°F (175°C) during the frying process. Overcrowding the pan can cause the oil temperature to drop, resulting in soggy tenders. Fry the chicken in batches, allowing the oil to come back to temperature between each round, for the best texture.

Another important tip is to thoroughly coat the chicken in the flour-panko mixture, pressing gently to help the breading adhere. This will ensure a satisfyingly crunchy exterior that perfectly complements the juicy, tender interior of the tenders.

Pairing Suggestions: What to Serve with Hot Honey Chicken Tenders

The bold flavors of Hot Honey Chicken Tenders pair beautifully with a variety of sides and dips. A creamy ranch dressing or tangy garlic aioli can help balance the heat and sweetness, while a refreshing coleslaw or pickles can provide a crisp, tangy contrast. For a heartier meal, serve the tenders alongside a side of fluffy mashed potatoes or a fresh, vibrant salad.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What do hot honey tenders taste like?

Hot honey tenders have a delightful balance of spicy and sweet flavors. The honey provides a rich, caramelized sweetness that is perfectly complemented by the kick of heat from the hot sauce and cayenne pepper. The crispy, breaded exterior adds a satisfying crunch, while the juicy chicken interior creates a mouthwatering texture.

How long can chicken tenders be hot held?

Cooked chicken tenders can be safely hot held for up to 2 hours, as long as they are kept at a minimum temperature of 140°F (60°C). After 2 hours, the tenders should be discarded or cooled and refrigerated for later use.

What does hot honey sauce taste like?

Hot honey sauce has a bold, dynamic flavor profile. The honey provides a sweet, sticky base that is beautifully offset by the heat from the hot sauce and red pepper flakes. The addition of butter and apple cider vinegar adds a rich, tangy complexity that ties all the flavors together in perfect harmony.

Does homemade hot honey need to be refrigerated?

Yes, homemade hot honey should be stored in the refrigerator. The combination of honey, hot sauce, and other ingredients makes the sauce perishable. Refrigerating the hot honey will help it keep for up to 2 weeks, ensuring the flavors remain fresh and the sauce retains its optimal consistency.

Variations on Hot Honey Chicken Tenders

While the classic Hot Honey Chicken Tenders recipe is a true delight, there are plenty of ways to put a unique spin on this dish. For a spicier twist, you can increase the amount of hot sauce or add a dash of cayenne pepper to the breading. Alternatively, for a sweeter version, you can experiment with different honey varieties, such as wildflower or clover honey, to complement the other flavors.

Another variation could involve swapping out the chicken tenders for boneless, skinless chicken thighs, which would lend a juicier, more indulgent texture to the dish. You could also try baking the breaded chicken instead of frying it for a healthier alternative.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• BBQ Bacon Mac and Cheese Skillet
• Cheesy Bacon Ranch Chicken Stuffed Peppers
• Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese Skillet
• Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Thighs

Conclusion

The Hot Honey Chicken Tenders recipe is a true celebration of bold, mouthwatering flavors. By combining the irresistible crunch of fried chicken with the perfect balance of sweet and spicy, this dish is sure to become a new family favorite. Whether you’re hosting a crowd or treating yourself to a delicious dinner, these Hot Honey Chicken Tenders are a must-try. So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients and get ready to indulge in a culinary masterpiece!

Craving even more magical meals? Browse Amelia’s Pinterest boards for quick dinners, cozy bakes, and tons of flavorful inspiration.

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