Imagine biting into a perfectly crispy chicken tender, its golden-brown crust giving way to juicy meat infused with the sweet heat of hot honey. The moment you taste that delightful combination, you’ll feel like you’re dancing at a summer barbecue, where laughter echoes and the aroma of grilled goodness fills the air. Hot honey chicken tenders are not just food; they’re a celebration on your plate that can turn any mundane Wednesday dinner into an event worth dressing up for. For more inspiration, check out this Air Fryer Peanut Butter Cookies recipe.
Now, let me take you back to my childhood when chicken tenders were the ultimate comfort food in our household. My mom would whip them up faster than I could say “dinner’s ready,” and they’d vanish quicker than you could say “seconds, please!” Whether it was a rainy day or a family gathering, those tenders always brought smiles—and sticky fingers—around our table. low carb chicken casserole So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to dive into this delicious recipe that’s perfect for game days, casual get-togethers, or simply indulging in some well-deserved comfort food. For more inspiration, check out this Amish Country Casserole recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
These hot honey chicken tenders are incredibly easy to prepare, making them perfect for busy weeknights.
- The blend of sweet and spicy flavors creates an irresistible taste that keeps you coming back for more.
- Their golden appearance makes them visually appealing and perfect for impressing guests at gatherings.
- Plus, they are versatile enough to be served as appetizers, main courses, or even in sandwiches!
Ingredients for hot honey chicken tenders
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Aim for about 1 pound of chicken breasts for the juiciest tenders; cut them into strips for even cooking.
- Flour: All-purpose flour works best for creating that luscious coating; don’t forget to season it!
- Eggs: Two large eggs will help the flour adhere nicely to the chicken.
- Panko Breadcrumbs: These add an extra crunch to your tenders; feel free to use seasoned panko for added flavor.
For the Sauce:
- Hot Honey: This sweet-and-spicy delight is key! You can buy it or make your own by mixing honey with red pepper flakes.
- Garlic Powder: Adds depth and flavor; fresh garlic is great too if you prefer a stronger kick.
- Paprika: Use smoked paprika for an extra layer of smokiness that complements the sweetness beautifully.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make hot honey chicken tenders
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or spray it with nonstick cooking spray so your glorious tenders don’t stick.
Step 2: Prepare Your Chicken
Cut your boneless chicken breasts into strips about one inch thick. This width ensures they cook evenly and remain juicy.
Step 3: Set Up Your Dipping Stations
In three separate bowls, set up your dipping stations: one with flour mixed with salt and pepper (because seasoned food is happy food), another with beaten eggs, and the last one filled with panko breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder and paprika.
Step 4: Coat Those Tenders
Take each chicken strip and dip it first in the flour mixture (get it nice and coated), then into the egg wash (a little dunk goes a long way), and finally into the panko breadcrumbs (make sure they’re fully covered). Place them on your prepared baking sheet.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden
Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach a cozy 165°F (75°C) so you know they’re safe to devour.
Step 6: Drizzle With Hot Honey
Once baked, drizzle those hot honey chicken tenders with your homemade or store-bought hot honey while they are still warm. This step is crucial; you want every inch coated in that sweet-spicy goodness!
Transfer to plates and serve these irresistible hot honey chicken tenders alongside some crunchy coleslaw or a fresh salad. cheesy taco pasta Get ready for compliments galore!
You Must Know
- Hot honey chicken tenders are not just a meal; they’re a sensational experience!
- Crispy, sweet, and spicy all at once, they can elevate any weeknight dinner into a flavor fiesta.
- Plus, they’re super easy to whip up, making them perfect for any busy schedule.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating the chicken tenders in your favorite hot honey sauce. While they soak up those flavors, prepare your side dishes. Sear the chicken tenders until golden brown and crispy for that perfect crunch.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to experiment with different sauces or spice levels! Swap out hot honey for maple syrup if you’re feeling adventurous. You can also toss in garlic powder or paprika for an extra flavor punch.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover hot honey chicken tenders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, bake them in the oven at 350°F until heated through to maintain their crispiness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh chicken tenders for the best texture and flavor.
- Marinate for at least 30 minutes to maximize taste.
- Avoid overcrowding the pan while frying; it helps keep those tenders crispy and juicy!
Sometimes while cooking these hot honey chicken tenders, I remember my friend’s face when he took his first bite—pure bliss! It’s moments like these that make all the cooking experiments worthwhile.
FAQs:
What are hot honey chicken tenders?
Hot honey chicken tenders are a delicious twist on traditional chicken tenders. They feature juicy, crispy chicken strips coated in a spicy honey glaze. The combination of heat from the spices and sweetness from the honey creates a perfect balance of flavors. Greek chicken bowls You can serve them as an appetizer or a main dish, making them versatile for any occasion.
How do you make hot honey for chicken tenders?
To make hot honey for chicken tenders, simply combine your favorite honey with chili flakes or hot sauce. Start with a cup of honey and add one to two teaspoons of chili flakes, adjusting to your desired spice level. Heat the mixture gently on the stovetop until combined and warm. This sweet and spicy sauce perfectly complements the crispy chicken tenders.
Can I bake hot honey chicken tenders instead of frying them?
Yes, you can bake hot honey chicken tenders if you prefer a healthier option. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the breaded chicken strips on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Drizzle the hot honey over them after baking for that signature flavor.
What sides pair well with hot honey chicken tenders?
Hot honey chicken tenders pair wonderfully with various sides. Consider serving them with crispy fries, coleslaw, or a fresh garden salad. For a comforting option, you might also include mac and cheese or cornbread. These sides complement the sweetness and spice of the chicken, creating a satisfying meal.
Conclusion for hot honey chicken tenders:
In summary, hot honey chicken tenders offer an irresistible blend of sweet and spicy flavors that everyone will love. Making them at home is easy, whether you choose to fry or bake them. With simple ingredients and quick preparation, these tenders are perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings with friends. flavorful black pepper chicken Don’t forget to experiment with your hot honey mixture to find the ideal spice level that suits your palate! Enjoy this delightful dish that promises to impress every time you serve it.
Hot Honey Chicken Tenders
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Hot honey chicken tenders are a mouthwatering blend of crispy, golden-brown chicken strips drizzled with a sweet and spicy hot honey glaze. Perfect for game days or casual dinners, these tenders are easy to prepare and sure to impress your guests. The delightful combination of flavors makes them a fantastic addition to any meal, turning ordinary moments into extraordinary experiences.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/3 cup hot honey (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cut chicken breasts into strips about 1 inch thick.
- Set up three bowls: one with seasoned flour (flour, salt, pepper), one with beaten eggs, and one with panko mixed with garlic powder and paprika.
- Coat each chicken strip in flour, dip in eggs, then coat with panko breadcrumbs. Place on the baking sheet.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Drizzle hot honey over warm tenders before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 chicken tenders (120g)
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 640mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 135mg
Keywords: For extra spice, adjust the amount of hot honey or add cayenne pepper to the coating mix. Serve with coleslaw or a fresh salad for a complete meal. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
