Indulge in the delightful fusion of sweet and spicy with hot honey chicken tenders. This recipe combines crispy chicken with a luscious honey glaze infused with a kick of heat. Perfect as a main dish or a snack, these tenders are sure to impress your family and friends. Whether served with a side of coleslaw or on their own, they bring an exciting twist to your dinner table. Get ready to elevate your chicken game!
Ingredients
– 1 lb chicken tenders
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1-2 tbsp hot sauce (adjust to taste)
– Oil for frying
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is 15 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/4 of the recipe) contains approximately 350 calories, 20g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. This is based on a single serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Marinate the chicken tenders in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes to enhance tenderness.
2. In a bowl, mix flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Heat oil in a deep skillet over medium heat.
4. Remove chicken from buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off.
5. Dredge each tender in the flour mixture, ensuring an even coating.
6. Carefully place the coated tenders in the hot oil, frying in batches.
7. Cook each side for about 5-7 minutes or until golden brown.
8. While chicken is frying, combine honey and hot sauce in a small saucepan over low heat.
9. Once the tenders are cooked, remove and drain on paper towels.
10. Drizzle the hot honey sauce over the chicken tenders before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
For a healthier option, you can use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour. Additionally, substitute the chicken tenders with tofu for a vegetarian version, maintaining the same marinade and coating.
Serving and Pairings
These hot honey chicken tenders pair wonderfully with a side of coleslaw, pickles, or a fresh garden salad. For a complete meal, serve them alongside roasted vegetables or fries.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to restore crispiness. They can be frozen for up to 3 months; ensure they are well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcrowding the pan can lead to uneven cooking.
- Not letting the oil heat properly before frying can result in greasy chicken.
- Skipping the buttermilk marination may yield less tender chicken.
- Using cold chicken straight from the fridge can lower oil temperature.
- Not allowing excess flour to shake off can create a clumpy coating.
Helpful Tips
- Experiment with different hot sauces for varied heat levels.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after frying for best texture.
- Use a thermometer to check oil temperature for consistent frying.
- For extra crunch, double-dip the chicken in the buttermilk and flour.
FAQs
Can I make these chicken tenders in an air fryer?
Absolutely! For air frying, preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Follow the same coating process, and cook for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
What can I substitute for buttermilk?
You can easily substitute buttermilk with a mixture of milk and vinegar or lemon juice. Just add 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to 1 cup of milk and let it sit for 5 minutes.
How spicy are these chicken tenders?
The spice level can be adjusted based on the amount of hot sauce you use. Start with 1 tablespoon for a mild kick and increase to your preference for more heat.
Can I use frozen chicken tenders?
Yes, frozen chicken tenders can be used. Just ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before marinating and coating.
How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?
The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer for accurate results.
Conclusion
Hot honey chicken tenders are a delicious and versatile dish that brings a perfect balance of sweetness and heat. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Enjoy the crispy texture and mouthwatering flavor that will keep everyone coming back for more!
Hot Honey Chicken Tenders
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken tenders
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1-2 tbsp hot sauce
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- Marinate chicken tenders in buttermilk for 30 minutes.
- Mix flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Heat oil in a deep skillet over medium heat.
- Remove chicken from buttermilk and dredge in the flour mixture.
- Fry the tenders in batches for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown.
- Combine honey and hot sauce in a saucepan and heat gently.
- Drain cooked tenders on paper towels.
- Drizzle the hot honey sauce over the tenders before serving.
Nutrition
