Hot Honey Chicken Tenders: A Sweet and Spicy Delight

Hot Honey Chicken Tenders are the perfect combination of sweet, spicy, and crispy. This mouthwatering dish takes the classic comfort of fried chicken tenders and elevates it with a drizzle of spicy hot honey. Whether you’re serving them as a snack, appetizer, or main course, these tenders are sure to be a hit with anyone who enjoys a bold kick of flavor.

In this recipe, we’ll guide you through making crispy, golden chicken tenders coated with hot honey sauce that balances sweetness with just the right amount of heat. These tenders are easy to make and even easier to devour!

1. Why You’ll Love Hot Honey Chicken Tenders

A Perfect Balance of Sweet and Spicy

There’s something magical about the combination of sweet honey and spicy heat. The golden, crispy chicken tenders are drizzled with hot honey, creating a mouthwatering balance of flavors. The sweetness from the honey complements the heat from chili flakes or hot sauce, making each bite a burst of flavor.

Great for Game Day, Snacks, or Dinner

These tenders are versatile and perfect for any occasion. They make for a great game day snack, a quick dinner, or even an impressive dish to serve at a party. Their crowd-pleasing flavor will have everyone coming back for more.

Easy to Make and Customize

Whether you like your tenders mild or extra spicy, this recipe is easily customizable. You can adjust the level of heat in the hot honey sauce to suit your preferences, making it perfect for families or spice lovers.

The Ultimate Comfort Food with a Twist

Crispy fried chicken is the ultimate comfort food, and the addition of hot honey takes it to the next level. The combination of textures—crispy on the outside, tender on the inside—along with the sticky, spicy-sweet sauce makes these tenders an irresistible treat.

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2. Ingredients for Hot Honey Chicken Tenders

Chicken Tenders: The Star of the Show

You’ll need about 1-1.5 pounds of chicken tenders for this recipe. You can also use chicken breasts sliced into strips if you prefer. These tender pieces of chicken are perfect for coating in crispy breading and soaking up the hot honey sauce.

Hot Honey: Sweet, Spicy, and Sticky Goodness

To make the hot honey, you’ll need:

• 1/2 cup honey (regular or wildflower)
• 2-3 teaspoons chili flakes (or adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon hot sauce (optional for extra heat)

The honey provides the sweet base, while the chili flakes and hot sauce add the heat.

Breading Ingredients: Flour, Eggs, and Seasonings

To get that perfect crispy coating, gather these ingredients:

• 1 cup flour
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 2 large eggs (for dredging)

These spices will give the breading extra flavor and help create a golden, crunchy exterior.

Frying Oil for a Perfectly Crispy Texture

For frying, use a neutral oil like canola or vegetable oil. You’ll need enough to fill a frying pan or deep fryer about 2 inches deep.

Optional Garnishes and Dipping Sauces

Consider adding:

• Fresh parsley or green onions for garnish
• Dipping sauces like ranch, blue cheese, or extra hot honey on the side

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3. Making the Hot Honey Sauce

Ingredients for the Hot Honey Sauce

To make the hot honey, you’ll need:

• 1/2 cup honey
• 2-3 teaspoons chili flakes (more if you want extra heat)
• 1 tablespoon hot sauce (optional, for an added kick)

Adjusting the Heat Level to Your Preference

If you prefer a milder heat, reduce the amount of chili flakes or skip the hot sauce. For more heat, increase the chili flakes or add a dash of cayenne pepper.

Simmering and Infusing Flavors

In a small saucepan, combine the honey, chili flakes, and hot sauce. Simmer over low heat for 3-5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Be careful not to overheat the honey, as it can become too thick. Once done, set aside to cool slightly.

How to Use the Sauce: Drizzle or Dip

Once your chicken tenders are cooked, you can either drizzle the hot honey over them or serve it on the side for dipping. Either way, it adds the perfect sweet and spicy finish to the crispy tenders.

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4. Preparing and Frying the Chicken Tenders

Prepping the Chicken Tenders: Seasoning and Breading

Start by seasoning your chicken tenders with salt and pepper. In one bowl, whisk the eggs, and in another, combine the flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Dredge each tender first in the egg mixture and then in the flour mixture, pressing the flour onto the chicken to ensure a good coating.

Frying Tips for Extra Crispy Chicken

Heat the oil in a large pan over medium-high heat until it reaches about 350°F (175°C). Fry the tenders in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the tenders to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

Baking or Air Frying Alternatives for a Healthier Option

For a healthier version, you can bake the tenders in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through. Alternatively, you can air fry them at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway.

Ensuring the Chicken is Fully Cooked

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the chicken has reached 165°F (75°C). This ensures the chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat.

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5. Serving Ideas and Pairings

Best Sides to Serve with Hot Honey Chicken Tenders

Hot Honey Chicken Tenders pair perfectly with:

• French fries or sweet potato fries
• Coleslaw for a refreshing crunch
• Macaroni and cheese for a comfort food feast
• Cornbread for a Southern-inspired meal

Dipping Sauces to Complement the Heat

In addition to the hot honey, you can serve these tenders with:

• Ranch dressing for a cooling contrast
• Blue cheese dip for extra richness
• Sriracha mayo for more spice

How to Present for Parties or Family Dinners

For a party or gathering, arrange the tenders on a platter and drizzle with hot honey. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a pop of color. Add small bowls of dipping sauces for guests to enjoy.

Creative Ways to Use Leftovers (Hot Honey Chicken Wraps, Sandwiches, etc.)

If you have leftovers, repurpose the tenders into:

• Hot honey chicken wraps with lettuce and ranch dressing.
• Spicy chicken sandwiches with pickles and a side of slaw.
• Chicken salad topped with crispy tenders and a drizzle of extra honey.

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6. Customizing the Recipe

Adjusting the Sweetness and Heat

Feel free to play around with the balance of sweetness and spice. Add more honey for a sweeter dish, or amp up the spice with extra chili flakes, cayenne pepper, or a splash of vinegar to cut through the sweetness.

Using Different Types of Honey

Experiment with different types of honey, such as wildflower, clover, or even spicy honey for a more complex flavor profile.

Experimenting with Spices in the Breading

Add spices like cayenne pepper, onion powder, or ground cumin to the flour mixture for extra layers of flavor in the breading.

Making It Gluten-Free or Dairy-Free

For a gluten-free version, simply substitute the flour with gluten-free flour or almond flour. To make the dish dairy-free, use plant-based butter or oil in place of butter.

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7. Conclusion: Why Hot Honey Chicken Tenders Are the Ultimate Treat

Hot Honey Chicken Tenders are the perfect blend of sweet, spicy, and crispy, making them an instant favorite for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, a snack, or the star of your dinner, this recipe is sure to impress. The balance of bold flavors and textures will keep everyone coming back for more, and with endless customization options, you can make this dish your own. So go ahead, treat yourself to these irresistible tenders, and enjoy the delicious combination of sweet heat!