As I rummaged through my pantry one evening, craving something that could excite my taste buds, I stumbled across a bottle of hot honey nestled among the jars. Instantly, inspiration struck! Picture this: tender chicken tenders, golden-baked to crispy perfection, coated in a sweet and spicy glaze that brings comfort food to a whole new level. That’s how my Hot Honey Chicken Tenders came to life—a dish that is not only irresistible but also a healthier alternative to the usual fried fare.
Whether you’re whipping them up for a family dinner or serving them at your next game day gathering, these tenders will have everyone coming back for more. Made with simple ingredients and requiring minimal effort, they strike the perfect balance between flavor and convenience. Plus, there’s something delightful about the crunch of panko breadcrumbs under a sticky, addictive glaze that makes these tenders truly special. Get ready to bring the joy of home-cooked goodness to your table!
Why are Hot Honey Chicken Tenders a Must-Try?
Crispy Perfection: Baked to golden brown, these tenders give you that satisfying crunch without the guilt of frying.
Sweet and Spicy: The hot honey glaze marries sweetness with just the right kick of heat, creating a flavor explosion in every bite.
Easy Prep: With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, dinner can be ready in no time—a perfect fit for busy weeknights!
Meal Prep Friendly: These tenders hold up wonderfully, making them ideal for meal prep. Enjoy them throughout the week as tasty lunches or quick dinners.
Crowd Favorite: Whether for family gatherings or casual get-togethers, they’re sure to please both kids and adults alike—everyone will be asking for the recipe!
Ingredients for Hot Honey Chicken Tenders
For the Chicken
• Chicken Tenders – The main protein; boneless and skinless gives the best results.
For the Coating
• Panko Breadcrumbs – Creates a crispy crust; substitute with regular breadcrumbs, though panko is preferred for crunch.
• Olive Oil – Helps crisp the coating during baking; you can opt for avocado oil for a different flavor.
• Salt & Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to your taste for the perfect blend.
For the Glaze
• Hot Honey (Honey + Hot Sauce) – Adds the sweet and spicy kick that makes these tenders so irresistible; tweak the amount of hot sauce to control the heat.
Enjoy these delicious Hot Honey Chicken Tenders that combine convenience with mouthwatering flavor!
How to Make Hot Honey Chicken Tenders
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature is essential for achieving the perfect crispy coating on your tenders.
- Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper for easy cleanup. This simple step will save you time after your delicious meal.
- Coat the chicken tenders in a mix of panko breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper. Ensure they’re evenly coated to get that delightful crunch in every bite.
- Drizzle olive oil lightly over the coated chicken. This will help the breading turn a beautiful golden brown during the baking process.
- Bake the chicken tenders for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C). Keep an eye on them for that perfect color!
- Mix the hot honey glaze by combining honey and hot sauce in a bowl. Adjust the hot sauce to your liking for the ideal balance of sweetness and heat.
- Drizzle the hot honey glaze over the chicken tenders or serve it on the side as a delightful dipping sauce. Enjoy every sticky, flavorful bite!
Optional: Serve with fresh vegetable sticks for a colorful and healthy side.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Hot Honey Chicken Tenders?
Getting ready to serve up something delicious? Picture a flavorful feast that balances crunch and comfort in a delightful way.
- Crispy French Fries: These golden fries offer a satisfying crunch that pairs perfectly with the tender chicken. Add a sprinkle of your favorite seasoning for extra flavor!
- Creamy Coleslaw: A creamy slaw provides a refreshing contrast to the spicy tenderness, adding a crunchy and cooling element that everyone will love.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Rich and creamy, these mashed potatoes create a cozy base to complement the sweet and spicy glaze. It’s a match made in heaven!
- Garden Salad: A light and vibrant salad will provide a fresh and crisp contrast to the richness of the chicken. Add some cherry tomatoes and cucumbers for a burst of color!
- Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled, corn on the cob is a classic side that adds a touch of sweetness and crunch, enhancing the meal’s overall appeal.
- Honey BBQ Sauce: For those who want to amplify the flavors, serve the tenders with a side of honey BBQ sauce. It adds a smoky sweetness that perfectly complements the heat!
- Sparkling Lemonade: A refreshing drink like sparkling lemonade balances the spiciness while offering a bright, citrusy flavor burst to invigorate your meal.
- Chocolate Chip Cookies: Treat everyone with sweet chocolate chip cookies for dessert! The warm, gooey rounds of chocolate will be the perfect finish to a finger-lickin’ dinner.
Storage Tips for Hot Honey Chicken Tenders
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness. Reheating helps retain the crispy texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Reheat directly from frozen for best results.
Reheating: To keep the chicken tenders crispy, reheat in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. Avoid microwaving as it may make them soggy.
Meal Prep: These Hot Honey Chicken Tenders are ideal for meal prep! You can cook a batch ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week.
Make Ahead Options
Hot Honey Chicken Tenders are a fantastic choice for meal prep! You can bread the chicken tenders up to 24 hours in advance by following all the steps up to drizzling the olive oil. After coating them, place the tenders in a single layer on a baking sheet and cover with plastic wrap before refrigerating. This not only saves you precious time on busy weeknights, but it also allows the breadcrumbs to adhere better, ensuring a crispy texture when baked. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply preheat your oven and bake as directed. Drizzle the hot honey glaze right before serving for that mouthwatering finish, and you’ll have a deliciously quick dinner that’s just as delightful as fresh!
Hot Honey Chicken Tenders Variations
Feel free to put your own spin on these delicious tenders with these fun variations!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute traditional breadcrumbs with gluten-free panko for a crunchy, health-conscious option. Enjoy every bite without worry!
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Heat Adjustments: Switch to a milder hot sauce or omit it entirely for a less spicy glaze. Perfect for everyone in the family!
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Extra Flavor: Add spices like smoked paprika, garlic powder, or onion powder to the panko before coating the chicken. This little twist packs an incredible flavor punch!
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Baked Veggie Twist: Mix in finely chopped veggies like zucchini or bell peppers into the panko coating for a nutritious boost. It’s a sneaky way to get in those greens!
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BBQ Glaze: Swap out hot honey for your favorite barbecue sauce for a sweet, tangy version. This twist is perfect for those who lean towards sweeter flavors.
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Lemon Zest Burst: Add a hint of lemon zest to the honey glaze for a refreshing zing. It brightens up the dish and adds a delightful aroma!
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Crispy Parmesan: Mix grated Parmesan cheese into the panko for a cheesy, crispy crust. It makes these tenders even more indulgent and irresistible.
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Herbed Delight: Incorporate dried herbs like oregano or thyme into the breadcrumb mixture for a fragrant herb-infused treat. This gives the tenders a delightful depth of flavor!
Expert Tips for Hot Honey Chicken Tenders
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Uniform Sizing: Ensure all chicken tenders are similar in size for even cooking. This helps achieve the perfect balance of crispy and juicy every time.
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Choose Panko: For the best crunch, stick with panko breadcrumbs. Regular breadcrumbs can work, but they may not provide the same satisfying texture.
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Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your chicken while it bakes. The goal is a golden brown exterior with a juicy interior; overcooking can lead to dryness.
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Customize Your Heat: Adjust the hot sauce in the honey glaze to control spiciness. For a milder option, start with less hot sauce and taste as you mix!
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Make-ahead Magic: These Hot Honey Chicken Tenders are perfect for meal prep—store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days and simply reheat in the oven for optimal crispiness.
Hot Honey Chicken Tenders Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken is best for Hot Honey Chicken Tenders?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken tenders provide the best structure and tenderness for this recipe. They cook evenly and absorb the delicious hot honey glaze perfectly.
How should I store leftovers of Hot Honey Chicken Tenders?
Very! Place the leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Reheating in the oven helps maintain that beloved crispy texture—just preheat to 375°F (190°C) and warm for about 10-15 minutes.
Can I freeze Hot Honey Chicken Tenders?
You can indeed! To freeze, first lay the cooked chicken tenders in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze them for about an hour until firm, and then transfer to a freezer bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake them straight from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes.
What do I do if my chicken tenders aren’t browning well?
No worries! If you see your chicken tenders aren’t browning as you’d like, ensure you’ve coated them evenly in olive oil and check your oven temperature. Sometimes, switching to the broiler for the last few minutes can help achieve that golden color. Just keep a close eye to prevent over-browning.
Are there any dietary considerations to keep in mind with Hot Honey Chicken Tenders?
Absolutely! If you or anyone you’re serving has dietary restrictions, consider using gluten-free panko breadcrumbs for a gluten-free alternative. Also, be cautious about the level of hot sauce you use in the glaze for those sensitive to spicy foods!
Irresistible Hot Honey Chicken Tenders for Easy Weeknight Wins
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper.
- Coat the chicken tenders in a mix of panko breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper.
- Drizzle olive oil lightly over the coated chicken.
- Bake the chicken tenders for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
- Mix the hot honey glaze by combining honey and hot sauce in a bowl.
- Drizzle the hot honey glaze over the chicken tenders or serve it on the side.
