Introduction
Craving something that hits every flavor note—crispy, spicy, sweet, and savory all at once? You’re in the right place. Hot honey chicken tenders have exploded in popularity thanks to their finger-licking blend of heat and sweetness. Whether you’re searching for the next game-day crowd-pleaser, a kid-friendly dinner upgrade, or simply a crave-worthy weekend snack, this recipe delivers a serious flavor punch with minimal fuss.
The internet is buzzing with variations of this dish, from air-fried bites to full-blown hot honey chicken sandwiches. But this recipe focuses on keeping things crispy and juicy—just like your favorite restaurant-style chicken strips—with a homemade hot honey drizzle that balances sweetness and heat perfectly.
Why are hot honey chicken tenders trending? They’re part of a broader food movement toward spicy-sweet combos. From hot honey pizzas to spicy maple bacon, taste buds everywhere are waking up to this fiery-sweet craze. And with ingredients you likely already have at home, it’s easy to make these at a moment’s notice.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to make the ultimate hot honey chicken tenders, step-by-step. We’ll also dive into serving tips, healthy swaps, and all the crispy little secrets that make this recipe worthy of going viral. Stick around—you’re about to master your new favorite chicken dish..National Fried Chicken Day Food Deals
Why We Love Hot Honey Chicken Tenders
Flavor Balance at Its Best
Hot honey chicken tenders strike the perfect balance between spicy and sweet, with crispy fried (or baked) chicken coated in a luscious honey-based glaze that tingles the taste buds without overwhelming them. It’s the contrast that makes it magical—just enough heat to make it exciting, and just enough sweetness to keep you reaching for the next bite.
Unlike traditional buffalo chicken or plain tenders, hot honey adds complexity. The sweetness of honey smooths out the fire from hot sauce or chili flakes, offering a more rounded experience than heat alone. You can tailor the spice level, too, making it a family-friendly option or a bold adult snack.
That Irresistible Crunch
Let’s be honest—texture matters just as much as flavor. A good chicken tender needs to be golden, crunchy, and light on the outside, with juicy, tender meat inside. This recipe makes that possible with a seasoned flour-cornstarch blend that fries up beautifully. Even if you opt to bake or air-fry them, the result is still satisfyingly crisp.
We use simple pantry ingredients to get this texture right, no fancy tools or deep-frying required (though that’ll get you the crispiest results if you’re up for it).
A Comfort Food Classic—Upgraded
Hot honey chicken tenders are a nostalgic comfort food with a modern twist. Everyone remembers dipping crispy tenders into honey mustard or BBQ sauce as a kid—but this version is all grown up. The hot honey glaze feels gourmet but takes minutes to make, offering that restaurant-style touch right from your home kitchen.
They’re also endlessly versatile—serve them over a salad, tuck them into tacos or sandwiches, or simply pile them on a platter for everyone to grab. Whether it’s a casual dinner or a game-day feast, these tenders deliver every time..Spicy Chicken Tenders You’ll Crave
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before you jump into the kitchen, it’s good to gather everything in one place. The beauty of hot honey chicken tenders is that they use simple, familiar ingredients, yet deliver a flavor profile that feels totally next-level.
Here’s what you’ll need for the base recipe:
- Chicken tenders or boneless chicken breasts
- All-purpose flour
- Cornstarch (for extra crispiness)
- Eggs
- Buttermilk or milk
- Salt and pepper
- Garlic powder
- Paprika or smoked paprika
- Oil for frying (canola or vegetable)
- Honey
- Hot sauce (like Frank’s, Tabasco, or Sriracha)
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional for more heat)
- Butter (for the glaze)
Let’s break it down further so you understand why each ingredient matters.
Choosing the Right Chicken Tenders
Fresh vs. Frozen
While frozen chicken tenders are convenient, fresh chicken always yields the juiciest results. If you’re using frozen, just make sure to fully thaw them and pat them dry before seasoning and dredging. You can also use boneless, skinless chicken breasts and slice them into strips.
Pro tip: Look for chicken tenderloins at the grocery store, which are already pre-cut and ideal for this recipe.
Organic or Budget-Friendly Options
If you prefer organic, free-range, or hormone-free chicken, feel free to choose a higher-quality product. That said, this recipe is incredibly forgiving—you’ll still get delicious tenders with budget-friendly options.
Essential Pantry Staples
Flour and Cornstarch Combo
The secret to that ultra-crunchy, craggy coating? A 50/50 blend of flour and cornstarch. Cornstarch helps create light, crispy edges, similar to what you’d find on restaurant fried chicken. It’s a small step that makes a big difference..Chicken Tenders and Fries
If you want to go gluten-free, try substituting a gluten-free all-purpose flour mix, and skip the cornstarch for rice flour.
The Spice Mix
Flavor starts before the chicken ever hits the oil. Mix garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper directly into the flour dredge to ensure every bite is seasoned. Feel free to add:
- Onion powder for depth
- Cayenne pepper for more heat
- Dried herbs like thyme or oregano
This is your chance to customize the flavor to your liking.
The Liquid Dip
Most recipes use beaten eggs, but a little buttermilk makes a world of difference. It tenderizes the meat and helps the coating stick better. If you don’t have buttermilk, regular milk with a splash of vinegar or lemon juice works as a DIY substitute.
Hot Honey Glaze Ingredients
This is where the magic happens.
To make the signature glaze, you’ll combine:
- 1/2 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons hot sauce
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Warm it over low heat until it’s glossy and pourable. You can infuse it with extras like minced garlic, lime juice, or even chipotle powder for a smoky twist.
👉 Want more hot honey inspiration? Check out this Hot Honey Recipe from Chili Pepper Madness for unique spice blends.
Step-by-Step Recipe for Hot Honey Chicken Tenders
Now that you’ve gathered your ingredients, let’s get cooking. This section breaks down the process into four simple steps. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or trying this for the first time, you’ll be amazed at how easily this restaurant-style dish comes together.
1. Prep and Season the Chicken
Start by trimming any excess fat from your chicken tenders or breast strips. Then, pat the chicken dry with paper towels—this helps the coating stick and prevents sogginess.
Step-by-step:
- In a medium bowl, whisk 2 eggs with ½ cup buttermilk (or milk).
- In a separate shallow dish, mix:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Dip each piece of chicken into the egg mixture, then dredge in the flour mix. Press lightly to ensure a thick, even coating.
- Place coated tenders on a wire rack while the oil heats (or while your oven preheats if baking).
Tip: For extra crunch, let the coated chicken rest 10–15 minutes before cooking. This helps the breading stick better when fried.
2. Fry, Bake, or Air-Fry
Frying Method (crispiest results):
- Heat 2–3 inches of oil (vegetable or canola) in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry chicken tenders in small batches for 5–6 minutes, turning once, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp should hit 165°F).
- Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate or wire rack to drain.
Baking Method (healthier):
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top.
- Spray the coated tenders lightly with cooking spray or brush with oil.
- Bake for 18–22 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
Air-Frying Method (quick & easy):
- Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Lightly spray or brush tenders with oil and place them in a single layer in the basket.
- Cook for 12–14 minutes, flipping halfway.
👉 Looking for more frying tips? Read Serious Eats’ Guide to Deep Frying at Home for pro-level techniques.
3. Make the Hot Honey Glaze
This glaze takes under five minutes and is the heart of this recipe.
Ingredients:
- ½ cup honey
- 2 tablespoons hot sauce (Frank’s RedHot, Sriracha, or your fave)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for extra spice)
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
- In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.
- Stir in honey and hot sauce, then add red pepper flakes.
- Simmer for 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fully blended and fragrant.
- Turn off heat and let it cool slightly—it will thicken a bit as it stands.
You can also microwave everything in a heatproof bowl for 30–45 seconds in a pinch.
4. Toss and Serve
Now the best part: combining everything into one crave-worthy bite.
- Place the cooked chicken tenders in a large bowl or tray.
- Drizzle the hot honey glaze evenly over the tenders.
- Gently toss or brush until coated.
- Serve immediately while hot and crispy.
For extra flair, garnish with:
- Chopped fresh parsley
- Pickled jalapeños
- Drizzle of ranch or blue cheese dressing
- Toasted sesame seeds (for an Asian twist)
Tips for Perfect Hot Honey Chicken Tenders
Once you’ve made this recipe once or twice, you’ll want to tweak it to your liking. Whether you’re looking for maximum crispiness, adjusting spice levels, or going gluten-free, these expert tips will help you take your tenders to the next level.
Pro Tips for Maximum Crispiness
- Use cornstarch in your dredge.
Mixing cornstarch with flour creates a light, crunchy coating that doesn’t feel too heavy. - Let the coating rest.
After dredging, let the chicken rest on a rack for 10–15 minutes before frying. This helps the flour adhere better and reduces the chance of it flaking off. - Don’t overcrowd the pan.
Fry in small batches to keep the oil temperature consistent. If the oil drops too low, your tenders will absorb oil and get soggy. - Double dip for extra crunch.
For a thicker crust, dip the chicken back into the egg mixture and then the flour dredge a second time before frying. - Drain on a wire rack, not paper towels.
A wire rack prevents steam buildup that can make the bottom soggy.
Adjust the Heat Level
Not everyone loves a fiery bite, and luckily, this glaze is super customizable:
- For mild heat, use a sweet hot sauce like sweet chili sauce or cut the hot sauce amount in half.
- For medium heat, stick to the base recipe using Frank’s or Louisiana hot sauce.
- For spicy, add red pepper flakes, cayenne, or a splash of Sriracha.
- For extra fire, try adding chopped chipotle peppers in adobo sauce or ghost pepper hot sauce to the honey mixture.
Gluten-Free Modifications
Want to make your tenders gluten-free without losing flavor or crunch? Here’s how:
- Replace regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend like Cup4Cup or King Arthur Measure-for-Measure.
- Skip the cornstarch if it’s not certified gluten-free and replace with rice flour or potato starch.
- Double-check your hot sauce and spices to ensure they’re GF-safe.
The result? Still crispy, golden perfection with all the flavor and none of the gluten.
Kid-Friendly Variations
Worried about the heat level for little ones? Here’s how to tame it:
- Use plain honey with just a tiny drop of mild hot sauce or none at all.
- Let them dip their tenders into honey mustard or ketchup instead.
- Try air-fried or baked versions for less mess and a healthier twist.
Hot honey chicken tenders don’t have to be spicy to be delicious!
Variations You’ll Love
Why stop at tenders? Once you master this hot honey combo, the possibilities are endless.
Hot Honey Chicken Nuggets
Cut boneless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and follow the same dredging and cooking process. These mini versions are great for parties, kids, or easy snacking.
Hot Honey Popcorn Chicken
Use even smaller chicken chunks and coat them in panko bread crumbs for extra crunch. Toss them in hot honey glaze and serve in a bowl with toothpicks or skewers.
Air-Fried Hot Honey Chicken
For a lighter version, use your air fryer. Spray or brush tenders with oil before cooking at 400°F for 12–14 minutes. The result is crispy without the deep-fried guilt.
Spicy-Sweet Chicken Sandwich
Slap a couple of hot honey tenders between a toasted brioche bun with slaw, pickles, and garlic aioli, and you’ve got yourself a next-level spicy chicken sandwich.
Serving Ideas & Pairings
Hot honey chicken tenders are endlessly versatile. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for the ultimate comfort food dinner, here are some delicious and creative ways to serve them.
Best Dipping Sauces
Even though these tenders are already coated in flavorful glaze, a great dipping sauce adds an extra layer of indulgence. Here are a few winning options:
- Garlic aioli – Creamy and rich with a mellow garlic kick.
- Ranch dressing – The cooling flavor balances the spice of the hot honey perfectly.
- Blue cheese dip – Bold and tangy, perfect for spice lovers.
- Honey mustard – A classic pairing with extra sweetness and bite.
- BBQ sauce – Smoky and sweet, ideal if you want to turn up the Southern vibes.
Serve them in ramekins or drizzle them over your tenders for even more flavor.
Perfect Side Dishes
These crispy tenders can be served solo as a snack or elevated into a full meal with these tasty sides:
- Creamy coleslaw – Adds crunch and coolness to balance the heat.
- Buttermilk biscuits – A Southern classic that pairs beautifully with honey-glazed anything.
- Sweet potato fries – A natural sweet-savory companion.
- Mac and cheese – Because hot honey and cheesy pasta are a match made in heaven.
- Pickles or pickled onions – Add a tangy pop to cut through the richness.
Creative Serving Ideas
- Taco night: Tuck hot honey tenders into warm tortillas with slaw and avocado for spicy-sweet chicken tacos.
- Salad topper: Slice and place tenders over a chopped salad with vinaigrette for a bold protein boost.
- Sliders: Cut tenders in half and serve on mini buns with slaw and spicy mayo for party-friendly sliders.
- Rice bowl: Add tenders to a rice bowl with steamed veggies, sesame seeds, and an extra drizzle of hot honey.
Health & Nutrition Notes
While these crispy, juicy tenders aren’t diet food, you can make them healthier with a few swaps—without sacrificing taste.
Nutritional Snapshot (approximate per serving of 2 tenders with glaze)
- Calories: 360–420
- Protein: 28g
- Carbs: 32g
- Fat: 16g
- Sugar: 8g (from the honey)
These numbers vary depending on whether you fry, bake, or air-fry and the amount of glaze used.
Lightening It Up
Want a lighter version? Here’s how:
- Air fry instead of deep fry to cut down on oil.
- Use whole wheat flour or almond flour in the dredge.
- Skip the butter in the glaze or use light butter alternatives.
- Reduce honey to ¼ cup for less sugar.
These small changes still result in crispy, flavorful tenders without all the calories.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of honey works best?
Use 100% pure honey—light or amber. Clover, wildflower, and orange blossom all work well. Avoid honey blends or syrups, which can taste artificial.
Can I make the hot honey glaze ahead of time?
Yes! The glaze stores well in an airtight jar in the fridge for up to 7 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before using.
How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store cooked chicken tenders in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to retain crispiness. Avoid microwaving if possible—it makes the coating soggy.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
It can be! Use a gluten-free flour blend and double-check that your hot sauce and spices are gluten-free. Avoid flour that contains wheat.
How spicy is this for kids?
The heat is very adjustable. For mild versions, use less hot sauce or swap it with sweet chili sauce. Kids usually love it when the glaze is sweeter than spicy.
Can I bake instead of fry?
Absolutely. Bake at 425°F (220°C) for about 20 minutes, flipping once halfway. Use a wire rack for even baking and to keep the tenders crispy.
Conclusion
Whether you fry them to golden perfection or air-fry for a lighter crunch, hot honey chicken tenders are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The irresistible combination of crispy coating and sticky-sweet spicy glaze takes this comfort food classic to a whole new level.
This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner, party platter, or game-day snack. And the best part? You can tweak it endlessly—mild or spicy, gluten-free or indulgent, fried or baked. With just a few pantry staples and a little hot honey magic, you’ll be serving up bold flavor in under an hour.
Give this recipe a try, and don’t forget to share your creations, tag us on social media, and let us know your favorite variation in the comments!
Name: Hot Honey Chicken Tenders
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Instructions:
- Prep the Chicken:
- Pat chicken tenders dry. Whisk eggs and buttermilk in a bowl. In another bowl, mix flour, cornstarch, and seasonings.
- Dredge the Chicken:
- Dip each tender into the egg mixture, then coat with the flour mix. Let rest on a wire rack for 10–15 minutes.
- Cook:
- To Fry: Heat oil to 350°F and fry in batches for 5–6 minutes until golden brown. Drain on a rack.
- To Bake: Bake at 425°F for 20 minutes, flipping halfway.
- To Air-Fry: Air fry at 400°F for 12–14 minutes, flipping once.
- Make the Hot Honey Glaze:
- In a small saucepan, melt butter over low heat. Stir in honey, hot sauce, red pepper flakes, and salt. Simmer for 2–3 minutes.
- Toss & Serve:
- Drizzle the glaze over the hot tenders and gently toss to coat. Serve immediately with dipping sauces or sides.