Irresistibly Delicious Hot Honey Chicken Tenders Recipe: A Sweet and Spicy Delight for Your Next Meal

#### Hot Honey Chicken Tenders RecipeIf you're searching for a dish that perfectly balances sweet and spicy flavors, look no further than this hot honey chi……

#### Hot Honey Chicken Tenders Recipe

If you're searching for a dish that perfectly balances sweet and spicy flavors, look no further than this hot honey chicken tenders recipe. These crispy, tender pieces of chicken are coated in a delightful blend of spices and then drizzled with a homemade hot honey sauce that takes them to the next level. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, game day snacks, or even as a party appetizer, these chicken tenders are sure to impress your family and friends.

#### Ingredients

To create this mouthwatering dish, you'll need the following ingredients:

- **For the Chicken Tenders:**

- 1 pound of chicken tenderloins

- 1 cup of buttermilk

- 1 cup of all-purpose flour

- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder

- 1 teaspoon of onion powder

- 1 teaspoon of paprika

- 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper (adjust for spice preference)

- Salt and pepper to taste

- Oil for frying (vegetable or canola oil works best)

- **For the Hot Honey Sauce:**

- 1/2 cup of honey

- 1-2 tablespoons of hot sauce (adjust based on heat preference)

- A pinch of salt

#### Instructions

1. **Marinate the Chicken:**

Start by marinating the chicken tenderloins in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes. This will help tenderize the meat and add flavor.

2. **Prepare the Coating:**

In a shallow dish, combine the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure all the spices are evenly distributed.

3. **Heat the Oil:**

In a large skillet, heat about 1 inch of oil over medium-high heat. You can test if the oil is ready by dropping a small amount of the flour mixture into the oil; if it sizzles, you're good to go.

4. **Coat the Chicken:**

Remove the chicken from the buttermilk and allow any excess to drip off. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure an even coating. Shake off any excess flour.

5. **Fry the Chicken:**

Carefully place the coated chicken tenders in the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

6. **Make the Hot Honey Sauce:**

While the chicken is frying, prepare the hot honey sauce. In a small saucepan over low heat, combine the honey, hot sauce, and a pinch of salt. Stir until well mixed and heated through. Adjust the amount of hot sauce to your taste preference.

7. **Serve:**

Once the chicken tenders are cooked, remove them from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Drizzle the hot honey sauce over the chicken tenders or serve it on the side for dipping.

#### Tips for Perfect Chicken Tenders

- **Double Dredging:** For extra crispy chicken tenders, consider double dredging. After the first coating, dip the chicken back into the buttermilk and then into the flour mixture again before frying.

- **Oven-Baked Option:** If you prefer a healthier version, you can bake the chicken tenders. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the coated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

- **Serving Suggestions:** These hot honey chicken tenders pair perfectly with coleslaw, fries, or a fresh salad. Add some pickles or jalapeños for an extra kick!

With this hot honey chicken tenders recipe, you'll create a dish that's not only delicious but also a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy the sweet and spicy flavors that will keep everyone coming back for more!