Savor the Sweet Heat: Hot Honey Chicken Tenders Recipe

Ever thought of adding a sweet and spicy twist to your crispy chicken tenders?

This recipe for hot honey chicken tenders is a game-changer. It combines crunchy breading with a rich honey glaze. It’s perfect for any event, from family dinners to fancy parties.

Our steps are simple, even for beginners. You’ll coat the chicken in flour, then in eggs, and finally in cornflakes. The hot honey drizzle adds a burst of flavor. You can adjust the spice to suit your taste, making it a hit with everyone.

Key Takeaways

• Versatile dish perfect for different occasions.
• Ingredients include boneless chicken breasts, cornflakes, hot sauce, eggs, and flour.
• The breading process ensures crispy chicken tenders.
• The hot honey sauce provides a sweet and tangy flavor profile.
• Customizable recipe for various dietary needs.
• Storage guidelines for maintaining crunchiness.

Introduction to Hot Honey Chicken Tenders

Hot honey chicken tenders have become a hit in the US. They mix juicy chicken with the sweet and spicy taste of hot honey. This combo is loved in both home kitchens and trendy restaurants.

The magic of spicy chicken tenders is their balanced flavors. They’re marinated in buttermilk and Sriracha for extra taste and tenderness. Pickle juice is added to tenderize the meat, adding more flavor.

After marinating, the chicken is breaded and cooked until golden. You can bake them at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 15 minutes. Make sure they reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit for safety. A meat thermometer helps get it just right.

In honey hot chicken tenders, honey is key. Mike’s Hot Honey is a favorite for its versatility. It’s drizzled over the chicken before serving, adding that sweet heat everyone loves.

These bold flavors are not just for home cooking. Convenience stores like 7-Eleven are getting in on the trend. They’ve teamed up with Mike’s Hot Honey to offer special dishes. Even limited-time items like Thornton’s Hot Honey Chicken & Waffle Breakfast Sandwich are a hit.

Storing leftovers is easy. Store them in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. Reheat them in an oven at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 8 to 10 minutes. Or, use an air fryer for 5 to 7 minutes.

There are many ways to serve honey hot chicken tenders. They go great with sides like french fries, potato wedges, carrots, celery, and dairy-free ranch dressing. This makes for a complete and tasty meal.

Ingredients for Your Hot Honey Chicken Tenders

Learn how to make delicious hot honey chicken tenders with this list of key ingredients. You’ll need the right chicken, a tasty spice mix, and a special sauce. This guide will help you cook up a storm.

Main Ingredients

• 1.25-1.5 lbs of chicken breasts or tenders
• 1 cup of dill pickle juice for bringing
• 3 whisked eggs
• ⅓ cup of all-purpose flour
• 4 cups of crushed cornflakes
• ¼ cup of oil for frying (if pan-frying)

Spice Mix

• 1 cup flour
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp red pepper flakes
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder

Special Sauce

Make a unique hot honey sauce to add flavor to your chicken tenders. This sauce makes the dish taste amazing and adds a nice heat.

• ⅓ cup hot honey
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

Simmer the sauce for 5 to 8 minutes to thicken. This special sauce will make your hot honey chicken tenders extra tasty.

With these ingredients, you’re ready to make a spicy chicken tenders recipe that everyone will love.

Step-by-Step Preparation Guide

Getting hot honey chicken tenders just right needs a good plan. We’ve outlined each step to make sure your tenders are crispy, tasty, and can’t be resisted.

Preparatory Work

Start by marinating your chicken tenders to keep the flavor in. You’ll need:

• 1 cup Greek yogurt
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 2 teaspoons paprika
• 2 teaspoons ground turmeric
• 2 crushed garlic cloves
• 2 teaspoons dried thyme

Mix all the ingredients in a bowl. Then, coat 2 pounds (907g) of chicken tenders evenly. Allow them to marinate in the refrigerator for a minimum of 30 minutes.

Breading Process

For a crispy coating, you’ll need:

• 1 cup plain flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

Put these dry ingredients in a big bowl. Take your marinated chicken tenders out of the fridge. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, making sure they’re evenly coated.

Baking and Finishing

The last step is cooking the chicken tenders. Heat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Put the tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15 minutes.

To get them even crisper, broil for 5-10 minutes more. This will make them golden brown and fully cooked.

To finish the dish, make the hot honey sauce:

• 1/2 cup honey
• 2 teaspoons chili flakes
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice

Mix these ingredients. Drizzle the sauce over the baked chicken tenders. For the best taste, serve right away.

Health Benefits of Baked Hot Honey Chicken Tenders

Choosing baked chicken tenders over fried ones is healthier. Baking cuts down on fat, making the dish lighter. It keeps the nutrients, like protein, without extra calories from frying. Organic chicken breast is the main ingredient, packed with quality protein.

Honey and spices add extra health benefits. Honey is a natural sweetener with antibacterial properties. Spices like chili flakes, garlic powder, and paprika help with cholesterol and bone health.

• Garlic Powder – Helps in managing cholesterol levels
• Chili Powder – Promotes bone health
• Paprika – Known for its antioxidant properties
• Onion Powder – Contributes to overall cardiovascular health

Let’s compare fried and baked chicken tenders:

Baked hot honey chicken tenders are low in fat and calories. They’re seasoned with spices that boost flavor and health. This makes them great for a balanced diet without losing taste. The baking method keeps the tenders’ nutrients intact.

Seasonings like cayenne pepper and black pepper add to the dish’s health benefits. Baked hot honey chicken tenders are tasty and nutritious. They’re perfect as a main dish or in a hearty salad.

Versatile Serving Suggestions

Hot honey chicken tenders are perfect for many occasions. They are loved by many for their taste. Here, we’ll look at tasty ways to serve them and how to make them fit different tastes and diets.

Pairings

Choosing the right honey hot chicken tenders pairing is key. Try them with crispy coleslaw or sweet potato fries. These sides complement the sweet and spicy flavors of the chicken.

For a lighter option, serve them with a fresh green salad and tangy vinaigrette. This pairing is both healthy and flavorful.

Don’t forget about drinks. A cold beer or a sweet iced tea goes well with the tenders. It makes each bite even more enjoyable.

Customizations

Customizing your hot honey chicken tenders can make them fit any taste or diet. Here are some ideas:

• Spice Level: Change the hot sauce amount to your liking. More for spice, less for mild.
• Coating Variations: Try different cereals like cornflakes or pretzels for a new taste and texture.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour and coatings for those with dietary needs.
• Vegetarian Alternative: Use cauliflower instead of chicken for a meatless option. It’s just as tasty.

With these ideas, you can make hot honey chicken tenders a hit with everyone. They’re sure to please both guests and family.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This hot honey chicken tenders recipe is a hit for many reasons. The mix of textures and flavors is amazing. The honey’s sweetness and the spicy kick make it perfect for everyone.

It’s great for both sweet and spicy fans. Plus, it’s easy to make and perfect for beginners or pros. Enjoy a flavorful meal ready in only 30 minutes.

Hot honey chicken tenders are also perfect for gatherings. They’re perfect for family dinners or fancy parties. They go well with many sides, making them a crowd-pleaser.

They’re also good for you. Each serving has carbs, proteins, fats, and vitamins A and C. They’re healthier than fried chicken and keep well in the fridge for up to 5 days.

In every bite, you’ll see why hot honey chicken tenders are a favorite. They bring joy and satisfaction to your meals.

FAQ

1. What is hot honey chicken?

Hot honey chicken is crispy, juicy chicken coated in a sweet and spicy honey glaze made with chili flakes or hot sauce.

2. Does KFC have hot honey chicken?

KFC has offered hot honey chicken as a limited-time item in some locations, but it is not always available.

3. What is in hot honey sauce?

Hot honey sauce is made with honey, chili flakes or hot sauce, and sometimes vinegar or butter for extra flavor.

4. What is honey chicken sauce made of?

Honey chicken sauce typically includes honey, soy sauce, garlic, vinegar, and sometimes ginger or cornstarch for thickness.

Conclusion

Hot honey chicken tenders are a delightful mix of sweet, spicy, and savory. Whether you’re hosting a party, meal prepping, or just treating yourself, this recipe is sure to impress.

Ready to try it out? Share your experience in the comments and let us know your favorite pairings or customizations. Happy cooking!