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Hot Honey Chicken Tenders Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 3.8 from 39 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 6 minutes
  • Total Time: 26 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: American

Description

This Hot Honey Chicken Tenders recipe features crispy, golden-fried chicken tenders coated in a sweet and spicy honey-infused hot sauce. Marinated in buttermilk with a blend of aromatic spices, these tenders are perfectly tender inside with a crunchy crust. A quick honey-hot sauce glaze adds a delicious kick, making this dish an irresistible appetizer or main course perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Chicken and Marinade

  • 1 lb chicken tenderloins, white tendon removed
  • 2 cups buttermilk
  • 2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp oregano
  • 1 1/2 tsp salt, or to taste
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper, or to taste

Coating

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup cornstarch

Sauce

  • 1/2 cup hot sauce
  • 1/2 cup honey

Others

  • Oil, for frying

Instructions

  1. Prepare the spice blend and marinate the chicken: In a small bowl, combine salt, pepper, paprika, oregano, garlic powder, and onion powder. In a larger bowl, add chicken tenderloins, half of the spice mixture, and the buttermilk. Stir to coat evenly and let the chicken marinate for 20 minutes at room temperature to tenderize and infuse flavors.
  2. Coat the chicken: In a separate large sealable bag or bowl, mix the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and the remaining half of the spice blend thoroughly. Remove the chicken tenders from the buttermilk marinade, shaking off excess liquid, then dip each tender into the flour mixture. Ensure each piece is well-coated to create a crispy crust when fried.
  3. Fry the chicken tenders: Heat oil in a deep fryer or a large skillet to 350°F (175°C). Fry the coated chicken tenders for approximately 3 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked through. Once cooked, transfer the tenders to a wire rack to drain excess oil and maintain their crispiness.
  4. Make the hot honey sauce: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the hot sauce and honey. Whisk frequently for 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce becomes smooth and slightly thickened. Be careful not to overcook, just warm to blend flavors together.
  5. Coat the tenders with sauce: Toss the fried chicken tenders gently in the prepared hot honey sauce until evenly coated. Serve immediately while hot and crispy for the best taste and texture experience.

Notes

  • Marinating the chicken in buttermilk tenderizes the meat and enhances flavor.
  • Using cornstarch mixed with flour creates a lighter, crunchier coating.
  • Maintain oil temperature at 350°F for perfect frying results.
  • Drain fried chicken on a wire rack rather than paper towels to keep crispiness.
  • Adjust the amount of hot sauce to modify the heat level of the glaze.

Find it online: https://slsrecipes.com/hot-honey-chicken-tenders-recipe/