Name: Crispy Hot Honey Chicken Tenders for Ultimate Comfort Food
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 80 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Chicken Tenders (can substitute with chicken breasts cut into strips); 1 cup Buttermilk (substitute with milk mixed with lemon juice if unavailable); 1 cup All-Purpose Flour (consider gluten-free flour if needed); 1 teaspoon Paprika; 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder (use fresh garlic for more robust taste); 1 teaspoon Salt (adjust based on dietary needs); 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper (freshly cracked preferred); 1 cup Oil (use a neutral oil with a high smoke point); 1/2 cup Honey (use raw honey for more intense flavor); 1 tablespoon Hot Sauce (adjust according to heat preference); 2 tablespoons Butter (unsalted variety allows control over salt content); 8 ounces Elbow Macaroni (can substitute with other pasta shapes); 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese (use sharp or mild based on preference); 1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (consider low-moisture mozzarella for best results); 1 cup Milk (any variety can be used, including non-dairy options); 1/4 cup Flour (all-purpose or a gluten-free blend can work); 1/2 teaspoon Salt and Pepper (adjust as needed); 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder (fresh garlic can also be incorporated)

In the heart of the South, there’s a magical duo that elevates any gathering: Hot Honey Chicken Tenders pair perfectly with creamy Baked Mac and Cheese. The moment you bite into a crispy tender, enrobed in a sweet and spicy glaze, you’re transported to the warmth of a bustling kitchen filled with laughter and love. This recipe not only delivers a satisfying crunch but also creates cherished moments around the dinner table. Quick and easy to whip up, it’s destined to become a favorite whether you’re hosting friends or just craving some comfort food. Curious to discover how to create this mouthwatering combination at home? Let’s dive in!

Why are These Chicken Tenders a Must-Try?

Flavor Explosion: Each tender is coated in a delicious hot honey glaze, perfectly balancing sweetness and heat to satisfy your palate.
Quick Preparation: In just a few steps, you can serve mouthwatering chicken tenders that your family will love, making weeknight dinners a breeze.
Kid-Friendly: This dish is a hit with kids and adults alike, ensuring everyone leaves the table happy and full.
Versatile Pairing: Serve with creamy Baked Mac and Cheese for a comforting meal, or enjoy them on their own for a snack that inspires nostalgia.
Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for gatherings or game days, this recipe is sure to impress your guests and keep the conversation flowing!

Hot Honey Chicken Tenders Ingredients

For the Chicken Tenders
• Chicken Tenders – Juicy protein base; ideal for tenderness; can substitute with chicken breasts cut into strips.
• Buttermilk – Tenderizes chicken; substitute with milk mixed with lemon juice if unavailable.
• All-Purpose Flour – Creates the crunchy coating; essential for texture; consider gluten-free flour if needed.
• Paprika – Adds color and smokiness; enhances the flavor profile.
• Garlic Powder – Boosts flavor; use fresh garlic for a more robust taste.
• Salt – Essential seasoning for chicken; adjust based on dietary needs.
• Black Pepper – Additional seasoning for balanced flavor; freshly cracked preferred.
• Oil – For frying; use a neutral oil with a high smoke point.
• Honey – Sweetens the glaze, balancing heat; use raw honey for a more intense flavor.
• Hot Sauce – Adds spiciness; adjust according to heat preference.
• Butter – Richness for glaze; unsalted variety allows control over salt content.

For the Cheesy Baked Macaroni
• Elbow Macaroni – Base for mac and cheese; can substitute with other pasta shapes.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Provides sharp flavor; use sharp or mild based on preference.
• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese – Creates gooey texture; consider low-moisture mozzarella for best results.
• Milk – Forms the cheese sauce; any variety can be used, including non-dairy options.
• Flour (for cheese sauce) – Thickens sauce; all-purpose or a gluten-free blend can work.
• Salt and Pepper (for cheese sauce) – Enhance cheese flavor; adjust as needed.
• Garlic Powder (for cheese sauce) – Adds extra flavor; fresh garlic can also be incorporated.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Hot Honey Chicken Tenders

Step 1: Marinate Chicken
In a large bowl, combine your chicken tenders with buttermilk, ensuring they are fully submerged. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator, allowing the buttermilk to tenderize the meat and infuse it with flavor. This step is crucial for achieving juicy, flavorful Hot Honey Chicken Tenders.

Step 2: Prepare Flour Mixture
While the chicken marinates, whisk together all-purpose flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper in a separate bowl. This well-blended mixture will create a crispy coating on your chicken tenders, enhancing their crunch and flavor. Set it aside, as you will need it shortly to coat your chicken.

Step 3: Coat Chicken
Once marinated, remove the chicken tenders from the buttermilk and let the excess drip off. Dredge each tender in the flour mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated on all sides. The coating should be thick enough to create a delightful crust but not so thick that it overwhelms the tender chicken underneath.

Step 4: Fry Chicken
Heat a deep skillet or fryer with oil to 350°F (175°C). Carefully add the coated chicken tenders into the hot oil in small batches, frying them for about 4-5 minutes or until they turn a beautiful golden brown. Remember to monitor the oil temperature and avoid overcrowding, as this will keep your tenders crispy.

Step 5: Make Hot Honey Glaze
In a small bowl, mix together honey, hot sauce, and melted butter until well combined. This glaze will add a sweet and spicy kick to your Hot Honey Chicken Tenders, perfectly balancing the flavors. Adjust the hot sauce quantity according to your spice preference for a delightful finish.

Step 6: Glaze Chicken
Once fried, place the tenders on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Generously brush each chicken tender with your prepared hot honey glaze, ensuring each piece is coated with that delicious sweetness and heat. Set them aside for a few moments to allow the glaze to set.

Step 7: Prepare Baked Mac and Cheese
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat, then whisk in flour to create a roux. Gradually add milk while continuously stirring, allowing it to thicken into a smooth cheese sauce that will be the base for your creamy Baked Mac and Cheese.

Step 8: Combine Cheeses
Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and the mixture is creamy. Season the cheese sauce with salt, pepper, and garlic powder for enhanced flavor. This ensures your mac and cheese will be extra delicious alongside the Hot Honey Chicken Tenders.

Step 9: Mix and Bake
Combine your cooked elbow macaroni with the cheese sauce, stirring gently to coat the pasta thoroughly. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish, sprinkle some additional cheese on top, and bake for about 20 minutes until bubbly and golden. Your cheesy creation will be the perfect companion to the crispy chicken tenders.

What to Serve with Hot Honey Chicken Tenders

Transform your hearty meal with vibrant sides that enhance the flavors of your dish.

Creamy Coleslaw: A crunchy, tangy slaw cuts through the richness, providing a fresh contrast to the spicy sweetness of the chicken. Perfect for balancing flavors!
Garlic Bread: Soft and buttery with a hint of herb, it’s the ideal vessel for sopping up any extra cheese sauce or hot honey glaze.
Steamed Broccoli: Tender greens bring a splash of color and nutrition, offering a slight bitterness that complements the sweet and spicy chicken tenders beautifully.
Cornbread: Soft and slightly sweet, this Southern classic pairs perfectly, providing comforting warmth alongside the crispy tenders.
Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy on the outside and tender within, their natural sweetness enhances the heat from the hot honey, making for a delightful contrast in flavors.
Crisp Garden Salad: Fresh greens and vibrant veggies provide a refreshing crunch, lightening the meal and adding a hit of color to your plate.
Iced Tea: A refreshing, sweetened iced tea helps to cleanse the palate, making each bite of your Hot Honey Chicken Tenders even more enjoyable.

Prepare your plate with these delightful companions, and watch your family and friends savor every bite!

Make Ahead Options

These Hot Honey Chicken Tenders with Cheesy Baked Mac and Cheese are perfect for busy weeknights! You can marinate the chicken tenders in buttermilk up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring they’re flavorful and tender. Additionally, the cheese sauce for the mac and cheese can be prepared up to 3 days ahead and stored in the refrigerator to save time. When ready to serve, just follow the frying instructions for the chicken and combine your cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce then bake until bubbly. This way, you’ll have a delicious meal ready with minimal effort, and it’ll taste just as delicious as if you made everything fresh!

How to Store and Freeze Hot Honey Chicken Tenders

Fridge: Store leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This will maintain their freshness and flavors while keeping them safe to eat.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked tenders in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag. They can last for up to 3 months without losing their delightful texture.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy again, reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes to restore their crispy exterior, rather than using the microwave which can make them soggy.

Make-Ahead Tip: You can prepare the Hot Honey Chicken Tenders ahead of time, frying and glazing them, then freeze. Reheat larger batches for quick weeknight dinners or last-minute gatherings!

Expert Tips for Hot Honey Chicken Tenders

Check Oil Temperature: Ensure your oil reaches 350°F (175°C) before frying; this prevents sogginess and gives you the perfect crispy texture.

Small Batches: Fry your chicken tenders in small batches to maintain oil temperature, which keeps them crunchy instead of steaming.

Drain Immediately: Place fried tenders on paper towels right after frying to absorb excess oil, ensuring they stay crispy and delicious.

Prep Cheese Sauce Ahead: Make your cheese sauce in advance and refrigerate. This can save you time during busy weeknights, keeping your Hot Honey Chicken Tenders and mac and cheese quick and easy.

Glaze Adjustments: Feel free to tweak the amount of hot sauce in your honey glaze based on your heat preference, creating a customized flavor experience that everyone will enjoy.

Hot Honey Chicken Tenders Variations

Feel free to get creative with your Hot Honey Chicken Tenders and mac and cheese! Explore these tempting twists that add depth and excitement to your meal.

Chicken Breasts: Swap chicken tenders for chicken breasts or thighs for a heartier option. The flavorful glaze will still shine through, lending juiciness to your dish.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour for the coating and gluten-free pasta for the mac and cheese. This way, everyone can enjoy comfort food without worry!
Cheese Varieties: Experiment with your cheese selection! Try a blend of sharp cheddar and pepper jack for a kick, or go with creamy gouda for a unique taste twist.
Spicy Kick: Want more heat? Add extra hot sauce to your glaze or include crushed red pepper flakes for a fiery flavor that will tantalize your taste buds.
Herb Infusion: Enhance the cheese sauce by incorporating fresh herbs like parsley or chives. This addition will brighten the overall flavor and add a pop of color to your dish.
Veggie Boost: Sneak in some steamed broccoli or spinach into the mac and cheese for added nutrition. It’s a delicious way to include veggies without sacrificing flavor.
Sweet Additions: Drizzle additional honey over the finished chicken tenders for a sweeter bite. The contrast of sweet and spicy is simply irresistible!
Serving Suggestions: Pair these tenders with a fresh side salad, like a tangy cucumber salad, to balance the richness of the mac and cheese. Or serve with a side of classic coleslaw for a crunchy, creamy complement.

Feel free to explore these variations, and if you love the sweet heat, consider trying some Bacon Wrapped Tenders or serving your chicken with a fresh Grilled Chicken Salad. Enjoy the comfort of home-cooked meals!

Hot Honey Chicken Tenders Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken works best for this recipe?
Absolutely! I recommend using chicken tenders as they are already cut for you and yield a juicy texture. However, you can substitute chicken breasts cut into strips if you prefer. Just ensure they’re not too thick to cook evenly.

How should I store the leftover chicken tenders?
Very straightforward! Store any leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge. This helps keep their flavors intact while making sure they’re safe to eat.

Can I freeze cooked chicken tenders?
Definitely! For longer storage, freeze the cooked chicken tenders in a single layer on a baking sheet first. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag, ensuring to remove as much air as possible. They can last for up to 3 months! When you’re ready, just reheat them in the oven for optimal crispiness.

What if my chicken tenders turn out soggy?
No worries! If you find your chicken tenders are soggy, it may be due to the oil not being hot enough. Make sure the oil reaches 350°F (175°C) before frying. Also, avoid overcrowding your frying pan—this keeps the oil temperature consistent and gives you that professional crunch!

Are there any dietary concerns I should know about?
Absolutely, it’s essential to consider potential allergens! This recipe contains gluten (from the flour) and dairy (from the buttermilk and cheese). If you’re entertaining guests with special dietary needs, gluten-free flour and non-dairy milk can be effective substitutions to accommodate different diets. Always check for individual allergies before serving!