Why Make This Recipe
Honey Hot Chicken Tenders are a delicious twist on classic chicken tenders. The combination of sweet honey and spicy hot sauce creates an exciting flavor that is sure to please everyone. They are perfect for a family meal, game day snacks, or just a fun dinner. Plus, they are easy to make and healthier when cooked in an air fryer.
How to Make Honey Hot Chicken Tenders
Ingredients:
- ½ Cup Honey
- 2 Tablespoons Hot Sauce
- ½ teaspoon Cayenne Pepper
- ½ teaspoon Garlic Powder
- ¼ teaspoon Chili Powder
- Pinch of Salt
- 1 ½ pounds Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts, cut into tenders
- 1 ¼ Cup Panko Breadcrumbs
- ⅓ Cup All-Purpose Flour
- 1 ½ teaspoon Kosher Salt, divided
- ½ teaspoon Paprika
- ½ teaspoon Garlic Powder
- ½ teaspoon Onion Powder
- 1 teaspoon Black Pepper, divided
- 2 Large Eggs, beaten
- ¼ Cup Milk
- 2 Tablespoons Hot Sauce
- Olive Oil Spray
Directions:
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Start by combining the honey, hot sauce, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, chili powder, and salt in a saucepan. Heat over medium-low for about 5 minutes, then take it off the heat and let it sit while you prepare the chicken.
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In a wide bowl, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, flour, 1 teaspoon of salt, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and ½ teaspoon of black pepper. Stir well.
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In another wide bowl, whisk together the beaten egg, milk, hot sauce, and the remaining salt and pepper.
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Dip each chicken tender into the egg mixture, then coat it with the panko mixture. Press the panko onto the chicken to help it stick. Place the coated tenders on a baking sheet and spray them lightly with olive oil.
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Preheat your air fryer to 390F (200C).
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Once ready, place the chicken tenders in the air fryer in a single layer. Leave some space between them. Cook for 8-9 minutes, flipping them halfway through. The chicken is fully cooked when its internal temperature reaches 165F (74C).
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Drizzle the warm honey sauce over the chicken tenders and serve.
How to Serve Honey Hot Chicken Tenders
Honey Hot Chicken Tenders are great served with dipping sauces like ranch or blue cheese. You can also enjoy them with a side of fries, salad, or fresh veggies for a complete meal.
How to Store Honey Hot Chicken Tenders
If you have leftovers, let the chicken tenders cool, then place them in an airtight container. You can store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, use the air fryer or oven for best results.
Tips to Make Honey Hot Chicken Tenders
- Make sure to press the panko onto the chicken well, so it sticks better.
- Adjust the amount of hot sauce to your taste if you prefer it spicier or milder.
- Experiment by adding your favorite spices to the panko mix for a unique flavor.
Variations
You can try using other marinades or sauces like teriyaki or barbecue for different flavors. Additionally, consider using thighs instead of breasts for juicier tenders.
FAQs
1. Can I bake these chicken tenders instead of using an air fryer?
Yes, you can bake them in a preheated oven at 400F (200C) for about 15-20 minutes. Flip them halfway for even cooking.
2. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
It’s best to use fresh or thawed chicken. Cooking frozen chicken directly might not give the best results.
3. What can I serve as a side dish with these tenders?
They pair well with coleslaw, corn on the cob, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad.
Honey Hot Chicken Tenders
Ingredients
For the Honey Sauce
- ½ Cup Honey
- 2 Tablespoons Hot Sauce
- ½ teaspoon Cayenne Pepper
- ½ teaspoon Garlic Powder
- ¼ teaspoon Chili Powder
- Pinch Salt
For the Chicken Breading
- 1 ½ pounds Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts, cut into tenders
- 1 ¼ Cup Panko Breadcrumbs
- ⅓ Cup All-Purpose Flour
- 1 ½ teaspoon Kosher Salt, divided Use part for panko mixture
- ½ teaspoon Paprika
- ½ teaspoon Garlic Powder
- ½ teaspoon Onion Powder
- 1 teaspoon Black Pepper, divided Use part for panko mixture
- 2 Large Eggs, beaten
- ¼ Cup Milk
- 2 Tablespoons Hot Sauce
Instructions
Preparation
- Combine honey, hot sauce, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, chili powder, and salt in a saucepan. Heat over medium-low for about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and let sit.
- In a wide bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs, flour, 1 teaspoon of salt, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and ½ teaspoon of black pepper. Stir well.
- In another wide bowl, whisk together beaten egg, milk, hot sauce, and remaining salt and pepper.
- Dip each chicken tender into the egg mixture, then coat with the panko mixture. Press the panko onto the chicken to help it stick. Place on a baking sheet and spray lightly with olive oil.
- Preheat your air fryer to 390F (200C).
Cooking
- Place the chicken tenders in the air fryer in a single layer, leaving space between them. Cook for 8-9 minutes, flipping halfway through. Chicken is done when internal temperature reaches 165F (74C).
- Drizzle the warm honey sauce over the chicken tenders and serve.