Hot Honey Chicken Tenders

Hot Honey Chicken Tenders are the ultimate comfort food that manages to hit all the right notes sweet crunchy spicy and totally satisfying. I love making these for my friends during football season because nothing gets devoured faster at a party. They’re just the right mix of a crispy crust and a sticky hot honey finish and you honestly will not be able to eat just one.

My kitchen turns into the happiest place whenever I make these tenders they disappear straight off the tray and the smell gets everyone excited for dinner.

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: Choose thicker chicken for juicier tenders slice your own for freshest result
• All purpose flour: Essential for a crisp light coating choose unbleached flour for better flavor
• Cornstarch: Makes the crust extra crunchy and light do not skip this for that perfect texture
• Large eggs: The binder that helps everything stick beat until well blended for an even coat
• Hot honey: The star ingredient adds sweetness and heat use a quality store-bought brand or make your own with your favorite chili flakes
• Garlic powder: Brings warmth and depth look for fresh vibrant powder not stale or clumpy
• Smoked paprika: Lends a subtle smokiness opt for Spanish smoked paprika if you can find it
• Salt and pepper: Essential for flavoring every layer use kosher salt and fresh cracked pepper for best taste
• Canola or vegetable oil: Choose a neutral oil for frying with a high smoke point so your coating does not burn

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Chicken:

Pat each chicken breast dry with paper towels to help the coating stick then slice into uniform strips about one inch wide for even cooking and juiciness

Set Up the Dredge:

In a wide bowl whisk together the eggs until fully blended In another bowl combine flour cornstarch garlic powder smoked paprika salt and pepper making sure to mix thoroughly for even spice distribution

Coat the Chicken:

Dip each chicken strip fully into the egg wash allowing excess to drip off then dredge in the seasoned flour mixture pressing the coating onto the chicken so it adheres and covers completely

Heat the Oil:

Pour oil into a deep skillet until it reaches about half an inch up the side Heat over medium until shimmering but not smoking A breadcrumb dropped in should sizzle on contact

Fry the Tenders:

Carefully add chicken strips to the hot oil in batches frying for four to five minutes per side Flip once only let them reach a deep golden brown outside and an internal temperature of one hundred sixty five degrees Shake off any excess oil for a lighter crunch

Glaze and Serve:

Drain cooked tenders on a paper towel lined plate While still hot drizzle generously with hot honey Alternatively toss them in a bowl with the honey to fully coat Serve right away so the crust stays crisp

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There is something about the way the hot honey seeps into all the crispy nooks of the tenders that just makes my taste buds light up. Smoked paprika is my favorite in this recipe and I remember sprinkling on a bit extra the first time my family tried these everyone asked what that secret smoky flavor was.

Storage Tips

Keep leftover tenders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days They reheat best in an oven or air fryer which helps restore that crispy coating Avoid microwaving if possible since it can make the crust soggy

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap chicken breasts for boneless thighs if you prefer a juicier more tender texture For a gluten free version use rice flour in place of regular flour If you do not have hot honey you can blend your favorite honey with hot sauce or chili flakes to taste

Serving Suggestions

Hot honey chicken tenders pair perfectly with creamy slaw crisp pickles or a side of seasoned fries For extra dipping options serve ranch blue cheese or even a cool herby yogurt sauce My favorite way is stacked on a toasted bun with lettuce for the ultimate sandwich

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Cultural and Historical Context

Hot honey is a Southern favorite now trending everywhere for its unique sweet spicy kick While crispy chicken has roots in many cultures pairing with hot honey has become a new classic especially in American comfort food circles

Recipe FAQs

→ How spicy are these chicken tenders?

The level of spice depends on the hot honey used. For a milder flavor, use less hot honey or mix with regular honey.

→ What dipping sauces work well?

Ranch, blue cheese, or a creamy garlic sauce complement the sweet heat beautifully. Classic ketchup can work too.

→ Can I bake instead of fry?

Yes, bake the coated chicken strips at 425°F on a wire rack for about 18-20 minutes, turning once for even crispiness.

→ How do I make homemade hot honey?

Heat honey gently and stir in red pepper flakes or hot sauce to taste. Let it infuse for a few minutes before using.

→ Can these be made ahead of time?

They are best fresh, but you can prepare and refrigerate before the final fry, then reheat in the oven to crisp up just before serving.

→ What type of oil should I use for frying?

Neutral oils like canola or vegetable oil work best for frying due to their high smoke points and light flavor.