Honey Hot Chicken Tenders are a spicy-sweet treat that combines crispy chicken with a fiery honey glaze. To create this dish, you’ll need chicken tenders, flour, spices, and a blend of honey and hot sauce.
Dive into the world of spicy and sweet with the Honey Hot Chicken Tenders recipe, a mouthwatering dish that’s rapidly becoming a favorite for those who love a kick of heat balanced by the soothing sweetness of honey. This culinary delight is perfect for anyone seeking to spice up their mealtime routine.
The recipe calls for a simple yet flavorful coating that ensures each tender is perfectly seasoned before frying to golden perfection. Once cooked, the tenders are tossed in a homemade sauce that’s irresistibly tangy, with a hint of sweetness to tantalize your taste buds. Ideal for a family dinner, game day snack, or a social gathering, these tenders are sure to impress with their delightful contrast of flavors.
Ingredients
Embarking on a culinary journey to make Honey Hot Chicken Tenders? Begin with gathering the right ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in creating the perfect balance of sweet and spicy flavors. Here’s what you’ll need:
Chicken Tenders
Start with fresh chicken tenders. They are the star of the dish. Ensure they are boneless and skinless for the best texture and ease of cooking.
Hot Sauce
The hot sauce brings the heat. Choose one that suits your spice preference. It will mix with honey to create a mouthwatering glaze.
Honey
Pure honey adds the sweetness that complements the heat. It also helps the chicken achieve a beautiful caramelized exterior.
Flour
Flour is essential for the crispy coating. It helps the hot honey sauce stick to the chicken, ensuring every bite is as flavorful as the last.
Spices
Don’t forget the spices! They will enhance the chicken’s taste. Common choices include garlic powder, paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chicken Tenders | 1 lb |
| Hot Sauce | 1/2 cup |
| Honey | 1/4 cup |
| Flour | 1 cup |
| Garlic Powder | 1 tsp |
| Paprika | 1 tsp |
| Salt | 1/2 tsp |
| Pepper | 1/4 tsp |
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 4
Preparation
Before the sizzle of Honey Hot Chicken Tenders fills your kitchen, some preparation is key. Marinating and coating take these tenders from good to great. Let’s dive into how to prep these mouth-watering bites.
Marinating The Chicken
To ensure every bite is bursting with flavor, start with a marinade. This process tenderizes the chicken and locks in taste. Use a mix of spices and buttermilk to create a base that will infuse your tenders with a tangy depth.
- Whisk buttermilk and spices in a large bowl.
- Submerge the chicken tenders completely.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for best results.
Coating And Frying The Tenders
Crunchy on the outside, juicy on the inside—that’s the goal. Achieving this starts with the right coating. Combine flour, cornstarch, and spices for a crispy shell.
- Dredge each marinated tender in the flour mixture.
- Shake off excess flour before frying.
- Fry in hot oil until golden brown and cooked through.
Use a deep fryer or a sturdy pan with enough oil to cover the tenders. Keep the flame at medium-high to maintain a steady temperature. Once fried, let them rest on a wire rack to keep the tenders crisp and non-greasy.
Sauce Preparation
Welcome to the heart and soul of our Honey Hot Chicken Tenders recipe – the Sauce Preparation. This is where the magic happens, where sweet meets heat, creating a mouthwatering glaze that will have your taste buds dancing. Let’s dive into the art of crafting the perfect sauce for your chicken tenders.
Mixing Hot Sauce And Honey
The foundation of our sauce is a tantalizing blend of hot sauce and honey. This combination is not just about taste; it’s a symphony of flavors. Begin by pouring 1 cup of your favorite hot sauce into a bowl. To this, add 1/2 cup of honey. Whisk them together until you achieve a smooth, glossy mixture. The honey’s sweetness perfectly balances the hot sauce’s fiery kick, creating a harmonious blend that will coat your chicken tenders in deliciousness.
Adjusting Spice Level
Personalizing your sauce’s spice level is key to ensuring everyone enjoys their meal. Start with a base level of heat and add more to taste. If you prefer a milder sauce, simply stir in additional honey to soothe the fire. For those who crave more heat, a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of extra hot sauce will elevate the spice. Remember, the goal is to create a sauce that complements the chicken tenders, not overpower them.
| Ingredient | For Mild Sauce | For Hot Sauce |
|---|---|---|
| Hot Sauce | 1 cup | 1 cup + extra to taste |
| Honey | 1/2 cup + extra for milder taste | 1/2 cup |
| Red Pepper Flakes (optional) | – | To taste |
Assembling
Now that your chicken tenders are crispy and golden, it’s time to add the flavor magic. Assembling your honey hot chicken tenders is easy and fun. In just a few steps, you’ll transform the plain tenders into a mouth-watering dish. Let’s dive into the saucy and garnished goodness!
Tossing The Tenders In Sauce
Every tender gets a saucy hug in this step. Ensure your honey hot sauce is ready in a large bowl. Add the freshly fried chicken tenders into the bowl. Use tongs or a spatula to gently toss the tenders. You want an even coat of sauce on each piece. Watch as they glisten with the perfect blend of sweet and heat.
Garnishing With Sesame Seeds
It’s time for the final touch. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over the sauced tenders. These tiny seeds pack a nutty flavor and a delightful crunch. They also make your chicken tenders look as good as they taste. Place the tenders on a serving platter. Now, scatter the seeds generously. Your honey hot chicken tenders are now ready to impress.
- Ensure tenders are hot before tossing.
- Coat each tender evenly with the sauce.
- Use a light hand when garnishing.
Serving Suggestions
Serving Suggestions for Honey Hot Chicken Tenders can make your meal delightful and complete. Here are some top picks to pair these spicy-sweet treats with.
Pairing With Side Dishes
- Buttery Corn on the Cob: This classic side adds sweetness.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: They offer a creamy texture against the crisp chicken.
- Refreshing Coleslaw: Adds a crunchy, cool contrast to the heat.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Their natural sweetness complements the honey in the chicken.
Dipping Sauces
Enhance your Honey Hot Chicken Tenders with these delicious dips:
| Sauce Type | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|
| Blue Cheese | Tangy and creamy |
| Ranch | Cool and herby |
| Honey Mustard | Sweet and tangy |
| Spicy Mayo | Creamy with a kick |
Variations
The beauty of Honey Hot Chicken Tenders lies in their versatility. Whether you crave something with an extra garlic kick or prefer a healthier baked option, variations of this dish can satisfy all your taste buds. Let’s explore some delicious twists on this classic recipe.
Spicy Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders
Give your Honey Hot Chicken Tenders an aromatic twist with garlic. This variation brings a bold flavor that garlic lovers will adore. To make these, simply follow these steps:
- Marinate the tenders in a mixture of honey, hot sauce, and freshly minced garlic.
- Coat them in seasoned flour for that perfect crunch.
- Fry until golden brown and finish with a drizzle of spicy honey garlic sauce.
These tenders offer a mouthwatering balance of sweet and fiery tastes with a garlicky punch. Serve them up with a side of celery sticks and blue cheese dip for a complete meal.
Baked Honey Hot Tenders
If you’re looking for a lighter option, Baked Honey Hot Tenders are the way to go. This variation is not only delicious but also better for those watching their calorie intake. Here’s how to bake them to perfection:
- Preheat your oven to a high temperature for a crispy exterior.
- Dip the chicken in a honey and hot sauce mixture, then into a seasoned breadcrumb and flour coating.
- Bake on a wire rack for airflow, ensuring even crispiness all around.
Enjoy these baked tenders as a guilt-free snack or pair them with a fresh salad for a nutritious meal. Their crispy texture and fiery honey coating will have you coming back for seconds.
| Fried Chicken Tenders | Baked Chicken Tenders |
|---|---|
| Richer flavor | Healthier option |
| Crispy texture | Crispy, less oily |
| More calories | Fewer calories |
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is Honey Chicken Sauce Made Of?
Honey chicken sauce typically consists of honey, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and cornstarch. Some recipes may include vinegar or lemon juice for added tanginess.
What To Eat With Hot Honey Tenders?
Pair hot honey tenders with coleslaw, sweet potato fries, or a fresh cucumber salad for a balanced meal. Enjoy them with cornbread or a biscuit to soak up extra honey. For a refreshing touch, serve with iced tea or lemonade.
Is There A Difference Between Chicken Fingers And Chicken Tenders?
Yes, there is a difference. Chicken fingers are breaded or battered and fried strips of chicken, while chicken tenders refer specifically to the tenderloin part of the breast, which can also be breaded and fried.
How Long To Cook Honey Breast Tenders?
Cook honey breast tenders in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Always ensure they’re fully cooked before serving.
Conclusion
Ready to spice up your mealtime? This honey hot chicken tenders recipe promises a delightful kick with each bite. Perfect for gatherings or a family dinner, it’s sure to impress. Don’t forget to share your cooking experience and tag us in your mouthwatering photos.
Happy cooking!
