There is nothing quite like the perfect balance of sweet heat dancing on your tongue, and this Hot Honey Chicken Tenders Recipe delivers exactly that in every bite. Imagine tender, juicy chicken enveloped in a crispy golden crust, then generously coated in a luscious glaze that marries spicy hot sauce with rich, sticky honey. It’s comfort food turned into an irresistible, flavor-packed celebration that’s as addictive as it is easy to make. Whether you’re craving a satisfying weeknight dinner or want to impress friends with a snack that’s bursting with personality, this recipe will quickly become a go-to in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t let the list intimidate you—each ingredient is straightforward and plays a crucial role in building the bold flavors and perfect textures that make this Hot Honey Chicken Tenders Recipe so special. From the tenderizing buttermilk to the crispy coating and fiery-sweet finish, these simple components come together beautifully.
- Chicken tenderloins (1 lb): Choose fresh, white meat with the tendons removed for the most tender bites.
- Buttermilk (2 cups): This adds subtle tang and helps keep the chicken moist and juicy during frying.
- All-purpose flour (1 1/2 cups): The base of your breading, creating that crave-worthy crunch.
- Cornstarch (1/2 cup): Mixed with flour to boost crispiness and lightness in the crust.
- Garlic powder (2 tsp): Adds savory depth and a hint of warmth to the seasoning.
- Onion powder (1 tsp): Rounds out the flavor with subtle sweetness and umami notes.
- Paprika (1 tsp): Lends mild smokiness and beautiful color to the coating.
- Oregano (1 tsp): Brings an herbal brightness that balances the richness.
- Salt (1 1/2 tsp, or to taste): Essential for enhancing all those delicious flavors.
- Black pepper (1/4 tsp, or to taste): Adds a gentle kick without overpowering the dish.
- Hot sauce (1/2 cup): The fiery heart of the sauce that makes this recipe stand out.
- Honey (1/2 cup): Sweetens and thickens the sauce, providing that irresistible glossy finish.
- Oil, for frying: A neutral oil with a high smoke point ensures crispy, golden tenders every time.
How to Make Hot Honey Chicken Tenders Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by combining your salt, pepper, paprika, oregano, garlic powder, and onion powder in a small bowl to create a flavorful spice blend. Toss the chicken tenderloins with half of this mixture and the buttermilk, then let them marinate at room temperature for about 20 minutes. This step is essential—it tenderizes the chicken while infusing it with aromatic, savory notes that will shine through in every bite.
Step 2: Coat the Chicken
In a separate bowl or large sealable bag, mix together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and the remaining half of the spice blend. Remove the chicken from the marinade and dredge each tender lovingly in the flour mixture, making sure every inch is evenly coated. This double layer of seasoning and starch results in that addictive golden crunch we all crave.
Step 3: Fry the Chicken
Heat oil in a deep fryer or a large skillet to 350°F (175°C), carefully drop in your coated tenders, and fry them for about 3 minutes per side. Watch as they turn a gorgeous golden brown color. When cooked through, transfer them to a wire rack—this keeps them perfectly crispy by allowing excess oil to drip away instead of pooling underneath.
Step 4: Make the Hot Honey Sauce
While your chicken is frying, whisk together the hot sauce and honey in a small saucepan over medium heat. Keep stirring for 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce is smooth, shiny, and just slightly thickened—a luscious, sticky glaze that’s going to elevate your tenders to legendary status.
Step 5: Coat and Serve
Finally, toss your crispy chicken tenders in the warm hot honey sauce until they’re evenly coated and dripping with that sweet-spicy goodness. Serve immediately to enjoy the contrast of crunchy, juicy, and saucy all at once—a combination that’s impossible to resist.
How to Serve Hot Honey Chicken Tenders Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or green onions adds a fresh pop of color and herbaceous brightness that complements the heat and sweetness perfectly. A light dusting of sesame seeds can also bring a subtle nuttiness and visual appeal that elevates the presentation.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with cool, creamy coleslaw to contrast the heat, or crisp roasted vegetables for a wholesome, balanced meal. For a comforting indulgence, serve alongside buttery mashed potatoes or fluffy white rice—all of which soak up the hot honey sauce beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Serving this Hot Honey Chicken Tenders Recipe on a platter lined with parchment makes for an inviting, casual appetizer spread that’s perfect for sharing. For a fun twist, try skewering the tenders for finger-friendly bites or even adding them to a sandwich with pickles and mayo for a sensational hot honey chicken sandwich experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover tenders can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain their crisp, keep the hot honey sauce separate and drizzle it on just before reheating or serving again.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked chicken tenders by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet to flash freeze, then transferring them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep well for up to 2 months and make for a quick and delicious meal anytime.
Reheating
The best way to bring your chicken tenders back to life is in the oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 8-10 minutes. This restores the crispiness. Remember to add the hot honey sauce after reheating to keep that perfect balance of crunchy and saucy.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken tenderloins?
Absolutely! Just slice the chicken breasts into strips about the size of tenders so they cook evenly and remain juicy. Keep in mind that tenderloins tend to be naturally more tender, so adjust cooking times if needed.
How spicy is the hot honey sauce? Can I adjust it?
The sauce has a pleasant kick from the hot sauce, balanced by the sweetness of honey. If you prefer milder heat, try using less hot sauce or a milder brand, and add it gradually until it suits your taste buds perfectly.
What type of oil is best for frying?
A neutral oil with a high smoke point works best, such as vegetable, canola, or peanut oil. These oils ensure the chicken crisps up nicely without burning or imparting unwanted flavors.
Can I bake the chicken tenders instead of frying?
Yes, baking is a healthier option! Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C), arrange tenders on a greased rack, and bake for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway. The texture will be slightly different, but the flavor remains outstanding.
Is buttermilk necessary, or can I substitute it?
Buttermilk tenderizes the chicken and adds subtle tang, but if you don’t have it, you can use plain yogurt thinned with a bit of milk or even milk mixed with a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar as a quick substitute.
Final Thoughts
This Hot Honey Chicken Tenders Recipe is a knockout for anyone who loves that perfect harmony of crunchy, juicy, sweet, and spicy in their food. It’s approachable enough for weeknights but impressive enough to serve when friends come over. Give it a try—you’ll find it quickly wins a top spot in your recipe rotation, becoming one of those dishes you just can’t get enough of.
Print
Hot Honey Chicken Tenders Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 16 minutes
- Total Time: 26 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
Crispy and flavorful Hot Honey Chicken Tenders marinated in a spiced buttermilk mixture, coated in a seasoned flour and cornstarch batter, fried to golden perfection, then tossed in a sweet and spicy hot honey sauce. This easy 26-minute recipe yields tender, juicy chicken with a perfect balance of heat and sweetness, ideal for a delicious appetizer or main dish.
Ingredients
Chicken and Marinade
- 1 lb chicken tenderloins, white tendon removed
- 2 cups buttermilk
- 1 tsp salt, or to taste
- 1/4 tsp black pepper, or to taste
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp oregano
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
Coating
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- Remaining salt, pepper, paprika, oregano, garlic powder, and onion powder from marinade mix
Hot Honey Sauce
- 1/2 cup hot sauce
- 1/2 cup honey
For Frying
- Oil, for frying (vegetable or canola oil recommended)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: In a small bowl, mix salt, pepper, paprika, oregano, garlic powder, and onion powder. Add half of this seasoning blend along with the chicken tenderloins and buttermilk to a bowl. Let it marinate for 20 minutes at room temperature to tenderize and flavor the chicken.
- Coat the Chicken: In a large sealable bag or bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, and the remaining half of the seasoning blend. Remove the chicken from the marinade and dredge each tender thoroughly in the flour mixture, ensuring an even and crispy coating.
- Fry the Chicken: Heat oil in a deep fryer or heavy-bottom skillet to 350°F (175°C). Fry the chicken tenders for about 3 minutes per side or until golden brown and fully cooked. Transfer to a wire rack to drain excess oil and keep crisp.
- Make the Hot Honey Sauce: In a small saucepan over medium heat, whisk together the hot sauce and honey. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened.
- Coat and Serve: Toss the fried chicken tenders in the warm hot honey sauce until evenly coated. Serve immediately to enjoy the crispy texture paired with the spicy-sweet sauce.
Notes
- For extra crispy tenders, let the coated chicken rest for 10 minutes before frying.
- Adjust the amount of hot sauce in the honey sauce to control the spiciness.
- Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- If you prefer less oil absorption, fry in small batches and maintain consistent oil temperature.
- This recipe works well with chicken breasts cut into strips if tenderloins aren’t available.
