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Crispy Hot Honey Chicken Tenders: Sweet and Spicy Weeknight Win

A close-up of crispy hot honey chicken tenders piled high on a white plate, glistening with sweet and spicy glaze.
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Make ultra-crispy chicken tenders with a juicy interior, coated in a perfectly balanced homemade hot honey glaze. This recipe is ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing game day appetizer.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch strips
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup honey
  • 2 tablespoons hot sauce (use more for extra heat)
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (for the glaze)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the chicken: Place the flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika in a shallow dish. Mix well.
  2. In a second shallow dish, whisk the eggs.
  3. In a third shallow dish, place the panko breadcrumbs.
  4. Dredge each chicken tender first in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
  5. Dip the floured tender into the egg wash, allowing excess to drip off.
  6. Press the tender firmly into the panko breadcrumbs to coat completely. Place coated tenders on a wire rack set over a baking sheet.
  7. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Spray the tops of the coated tenders lightly with cooking spray for better browning.
  8. Bake for 18 to 22 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F).
  9. While the chicken bakes, prepare the hot honey glaze: In a small saucepan, combine the honey, hot sauce, apple cider vinegar, and smoked paprika. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring until smooth and slightly bubbly. Remove from heat.
  10. Once the tenders are cooked, place them in a large bowl. Pour the hot honey glaze over the tenders. Toss gently until every piece is evenly coated.
  11. Serve immediately as a game day appetizer or main dish.

Notes

  • For extra crispiness, you can briefly broil the tenders for the last 1-2 minutes after glazing, watching carefully to prevent burning.
  • If you prefer an air fryer method, cook the coated tenders at 380°F (195°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway, then toss in the glaze.
  • Adjust the amount of hot sauce in the glaze to control the spice level to your preference.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cravybite.link/hot-honey-chicken-tenders-crispy-sweet-spicy/