Why You’ll Love Hot Honey Chicken Tenders Recipe
The combination of sweet honey and spicy heat creates a perfectly balanced flavor.
The double breading makes the chicken extra crispy.
Marinating ensures juicy, tender chicken every time.
It’s great for feeding a group or meal prepping.
Pairs well with a variety of dipping sauces and sides.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
2 pounds chicken tenders
1 1/2 cups buttermilk
1 tablespoon hot sauce
1/4 cup white distilled vinegar
5 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon coarse salt
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup cornstarch
1 tablespoon baking powder
2 teaspoons garlic granules
2 teaspoons onion granules
2 teaspoons paprika
3 teaspoons coarse salt
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
4 large eggs
1/2 cup buttermilk
Oil for frying
1 cup honey
2 teaspoons hot sauce
2 teaspoons crushed red pepper flakes
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
2 teaspoons white distilled vinegar
1/2 stick unsalted butter
Directions
In a large bowl, combine buttermilk, hot sauce, vinegar, garlic, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken tenders, mix well, cover, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or up to 24 hours.
In a shallow bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, baking powder, garlic granules, onion granules, paprika, salt, and pepper.
In another bowl, whisk together eggs, buttermilk, salt, and pepper.
Heat oil in a large pot to 375°F.
Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, then dip into the egg mixture, and coat again in the flour mixture, pressing to adhere.
Place coated tenders on a rack and let them rest for about 15 minutes.
Fry the tenders in batches for 3 1/2 to 4 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and fully cooked.
Transfer to a rack or paper towels to drain excess oil.
In a small saucepan, combine honey, hot sauce, red pepper flakes, cayenne, vinegar, and butter. Heat gently, stirring until melted and smooth.
Brush or drizzle the hot honey sauce over the fried chicken tenders.
Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces.
Servings and timing
Servings: 6
Prep time: 20 minutes (plus marinating time)
Cook time: 16 minutes
Total time: 36 minutes (excluding marinating time)
Variations
Make it milder by reducing cayenne and red pepper flakes.
Use chicken breast strips if tenders are not available.
Bake or air fry instead of deep frying for a lighter version.
Add smoked paprika for a deeper, smoky flavor.
Use maple syrup instead of honey for a different sweetness profile.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat in the oven or air fryer at 350°F to maintain crispiness.
Avoid microwaving, as it softens the coating.
Store the sauce separately if possible and reheat gently before using.
Freezing is best done before frying for optimal texture.
FAQs
Can I skip the marinating step?
You can, but marinating adds flavor and helps keep the chicken tender.
Why double coat the chicken?
Double coating creates a thicker, crispier crust.
What oil is best for frying?
Neutral oils like vegetable, canola, or peanut oil work best.
How do I know the chicken is fully cooked?
The internal temperature should reach 165°F, and the coating should be golden brown.
Can I make this recipe in an air fryer?
Yes, spray lightly with oil and cook until crispy and cooked through.
Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, store it in the fridge and reheat gently before using.
What dipping sauces go well with this?
Ranch, blue cheese, and honey mustard are great options.
Can I make it less sweet?
Reduce the amount of honey or add more vinegar and spice.
Why is my coating falling off?
Make sure to press the coating firmly and let it rest before frying.
Can I reuse frying oil?
Yes, strain and store it properly after cooling.
Conclusion
Hot Honey Chicken Tenders deliver the perfect mix of crunch, sweetness, and heat. With their crispy coating and sticky glaze, they’re an irresistible dish that’s sure to become a favorite for any occasion.
