Hot Honey Chicken Tenders: A Flavorful Recipe You’ll Love!

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Introduction to Hot Honey Chicken Tenders

As a busy mom, I know how challenging it can be to whip up a meal that everyone will love. That’s where my Hot Honey Chicken Tenders come in! These crispy, flavorful chicken strips are not just a quick solution for a hectic weeknight dinner; they’re also a dish that will impress your loved ones. The sweet and spicy honey sauce adds a delightful kick that makes every bite a little adventure. Trust me, once you try these tenders, they’ll become a staple in your kitchen, bringing smiles to your family’s faces!

Why You’ll Love This Hot Honey Chicken Tenders

These Hot Honey Chicken Tenders are a game-changer for busy nights! They’re quick to prepare, taking just over an hour from start to finish, including marinating time. The combination of crispy chicken and a sweet, spicy sauce is simply irresistible. Plus, they’re versatile enough to please even the pickiest eaters. Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, these tenders will steal the show!

Ingredients for Hot Honey Chicken Tenders

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating delicious Hot Honey Chicken Tenders. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Chicken tenders: These are the stars of the dish, tender and juicy, perfect for frying.
• Buttermilk: This adds moisture and helps tenderize the chicken, making it extra juicy.
• Garlic powder: A must for flavor, it brings a savory depth to the marinade.
• Onion powder: This enhances the overall taste, adding a subtle sweetness.
• Paprika: It gives a lovely color and a hint of smokiness to the chicken.
• Salt: Essential for seasoning, it brings out the flavors of all the ingredients.
• Black pepper: Adds a touch of heat and enhances the overall flavor profile.
• All-purpose flour: This is the base for the coating, creating that crispy texture we all love.
• Cornmeal: It adds crunch and a bit of sweetness to the coating.
• Baking powder: This helps the coating puff up and become light and crispy.
• Cayenne pepper: Adjust this to your spice preference; it adds a nice kick!
• Vegetable oil: For frying, it’s important to use oil with a high smoke point.
• Honey: The star of the hot honey sauce, it brings sweetness and a beautiful glaze.
• Hot sauce: This adds the heat to the honey, creating that perfect sweet and spicy balance.
• Apple cider vinegar: A splash of acidity to brighten the sauce and enhance the flavors.

For those looking for alternatives, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free option. And if you want to add a smoky twist, consider a pinch of smoked paprika in the flour mixture. You can find the exact measurements for these ingredients at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!

How to Make Hot Honey Chicken Tenders

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by combining buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl. This mixture is the secret to juicy, flavorful chicken tenders. The buttermilk tenderizes the meat, while the spices infuse it with delicious flavor. Add the chicken tenders, ensuring they are well coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least one hour, or overnight if you have the time. Trust me, the longer they marinate, the better they taste!

Step 2: Prepare the Coating

In a separate bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, cornmeal, baking powder, and cayenne pepper. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving that perfect crunch. The flour forms the base, while cornmeal adds extra texture and sweetness. Baking powder helps the coating puff up, making it light and crispy. Don’t forget to adjust the cayenne pepper to your spice preference. This mixture is what will give your chicken tenders that irresistible crunch!

Step 3: Dredge the Chicken

Once the chicken has marinated, it’s time to dredge! Remove the tenders from the buttermilk mixture, allowing any excess to drip off. Then, coat each piece in the flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure it sticks well. This step is key for a crispy exterior. Make sure every inch of the chicken is covered. If you want an extra crunch, you can double-dip by returning the chicken to the buttermilk and then back to the flour mixture!

Step 4: Fry the Chicken

Heat about one inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F. This temperature is crucial for achieving that golden-brown color. Fry the chicken tenders in batches, cooking for about 4-5 minutes per side. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning. Once they’re golden and cooked through, transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. This step ensures your tenders stay crispy and not greasy!

Step 5: Make the Hot Honey Sauce

While the chicken is frying, it’s time to whip up the hot honey sauce. In a small saucepan, combine honey, hot sauce, and apple cider vinegar over low heat. Stir until warmed and well combined. This sauce is what elevates your chicken tenders to the next level. The sweetness of the honey balances the heat from the hot sauce, creating a delightful flavor explosion. Feel free to adjust the hot sauce to your liking for the perfect kick!

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Now for the fun part! Drizzle the hot honey sauce generously over the crispy chicken tenders just before serving. You can also serve the sauce on the side for dipping. Presentation matters, so arrange the tenders on a platter, garnished with fresh herbs if you like. This dish is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors that will have everyone coming back for seconds!

Tips for Success

• Always marinate the chicken for at least an hour to enhance flavor.
• Use a thermometer to check oil temperature for perfect frying.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan; fry in batches for even cooking.
• Let the fried chicken rest on paper towels to keep it crispy.
• Adjust the hot sauce in the honey sauce to suit your spice preference.

Equipment Needed

• Large bowl: For marinating the chicken; a mixing bowl works too.
• Skillet: A cast-iron skillet is ideal, but any large frying pan will do.
• Meat thermometer: To check oil temperature; a regular kitchen thermometer can work.
• Paper towels: For draining excess oil; a wire rack is a great alternative.

Variations

• Spicy Garlic Honey: Add minced garlic to the hot honey sauce for an extra layer of flavor.
• Herb-Infused: Mix dried herbs like thyme or oregano into the flour mixture for a fragrant twist.
• Buffalo Style: Toss the cooked chicken tenders in buffalo sauce instead of hot honey for a tangy kick.
• Honey Mustard Variation: Replace hot sauce with Dijon mustard in the honey sauce for a sweet and tangy alternative.
• Air Fryer Option: Cook the chicken tenders in an air fryer for a healthier, lower-fat version.

Serving Suggestions

• Classic Sides: Serve with crispy fries or a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal.
• Dipping Sauces: Offer ranch or blue cheese dressing alongside the hot honey sauce for variety.
• Refreshing Drinks: Pair with iced tea or lemonade to complement the spicy flavors.
• Presentation: Garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro for a pop of color.

FAQs about Hot Honey Chicken Tenders

Can I make Hot Honey Chicken Tenders ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken tenders a day in advance. Just keep them covered in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to cook, simply dredge and fry them. The flavors will be even more pronounced!

What can I serve with Hot Honey Chicken Tenders?

These tenders pair wonderfully with classic sides like crispy fries, coleslaw, or a fresh garden salad. You can also serve them with dipping sauces like ranch or blue cheese for an extra flavor boost.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, pop them in the oven for a few minutes to regain their crispiness.

Can I make these tenders gluten-free?

Yes! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. This way, you can enjoy the same delicious flavors without the gluten.

What if I don’t have buttermilk?

No worries! You can easily make a buttermilk substitute by mixing one cup of milk with one tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 5 minutes, and you’re good to go!

Final Thoughts

Making Hot Honey Chicken Tenders is more than just cooking; it’s about creating joyful moments around the dinner table. The combination of crispy chicken and that sweet, spicy sauce brings a burst of flavor that everyone will love. I cherish the smiles on my family’s faces as they dig into this dish, and I hope you will too. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special gathering, these tenders are sure to impress. So roll up your sleeves, embrace the mess, and enjoy the delicious adventure that awaits in your kitchen!

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