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Crispy Hot Honey Chicken Tenders

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Golden, crunchy chicken tenders fried to perfection and coated in a sweet and spicy hot honey glaze. Juicy on the inside and irresistibly crispy on the outside, they’re perfect for family dinners, game nights, or an easy takeout-style meal at home.

  • Author: Sophia
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Halal

Ingredients

  • 1.5 pounds chicken tenders
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 cups plain homestyle panko crumbs
  • ½ cup honey
  • ¼ cup hot sauce
  • 1 to cups neutral oil for frying (enough to fill ¼ inch in the pan)

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
  2. Set up three shallow bowls: combine flour, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in the first; whisk eggs in the second; add panko crumbs to the third.
  3. Heat about ¼ inch of neutral oil in a wide skillet over medium-low heat until hot.
  4. Dredge each tender in the flour mixture, shaking off excess. Dip into eggs, then coat in panko crumbs, pressing gently to adhere. Place on a wire rack.
  5. Fry tenders in batches for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  6. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
  7. In a small bowl, whisk together honey and hot sauce until combined.
  8. Toss warm tenders in the hot honey sauce or brush sauce over the top. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • Adjust hot sauce quantity to control spice level.
  • Add ½ teaspoon smoked paprika or ¼ teaspoon cayenne to the flour for extra flavor.
  • For baking, cook at 425°F (220°C) for 18–22 minutes, flipping halfway and spraying lightly with oil.
  • For air frying, cook at 400°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway.
  • Store leftovers separately from sauce for up to 4 days.
  • Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness; avoid microwaving.

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