Description
These Hot Honey Chicken Tenders are crispy, juicy, and coated in a mouthwatering sweet-and-spicy honey glaze. Baked to golden perfection, they deliver the ultimate comfort food experience without the guilt of frying. Ideal for dinner, appetizers, or even meal prep.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
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1 lb chicken tenders or boneless chicken thighs, cut into strips
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1/2 cup buttermilk (or milk mixed with 1 tsp vinegar)
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1 cup panko breadcrumbs
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1/2 cup all-purpose flour
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1 tsp paprika
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1/2 tsp garlic powder
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter (for brushing)
For the Hot Honey Sauce:
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1/3 cup honey
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2 tbsp hot sauce (adjust for spice level)
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1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
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1/4 tsp chili flakes (optional, for extra heat)
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease.
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Marinate chicken strips in buttermilk for at least 15 minutes.
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Mix panko, flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a shallow dish.
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Coat each chicken strip in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to help it stick.
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Place chicken on the baking sheet, brush with olive oil or butter, and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
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Prepare hot honey sauce by heating honey, hot sauce, apple cider vinegar, and chili flakes over medium-low heat until smooth.
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Drizzle or toss chicken in hot honey sauce and serve immediately.
Notes
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For extra tenderness, marinate the chicken overnight.
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Adjust the hot sauce for more or less heat.
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To reheat, bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes or air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus marination)
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish, Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American