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deep fried hot honey chicken tenders recipe

Crispy Deep Fried Hot Honey Chicken Tenders

Ryan BennettRyan Bennett
These crispy deep fried hot honey chicken tenders are the perfect blend of sweet and spicy, offering a delicious twist on the classic comfort food.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 8 pieces
Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 deep fryer or large pot
  • 1 mixing bowls for dredging station
  • 1 whisk

Ingredients
  

Chicken Tenders

  • 2 pounds chicken tenders
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • Vegetable oil for frying

Hot Honey Glaze

  • 1 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup hot sauce
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Set up a dredging station with bowls of flour, eggs and buttermilk, and seasoned flour.
  • Dip each tender into the flour, then the egg mixture, and finally the seasoned flour. Ensure each piece is thoroughly coated for a crispy finish.
  • In a deep fryer or large pot, heat vegetable oil to 350°F. Use a thermometer to maintain a consistent temperature.
  • Carefully lower chicken tenders into the hot oil, frying in batches. Cook each batch for 5-7 minutes until golden and cooked through.
  • Transfer fried tenders to a wire rack over a baking sheet to drain excess oil and keep them crispy.
  • In a saucepan, combine honey, hot sauce, and apple cider vinegar. Heat gently until warm and well-mixed.

Serving

  • Toss the hot chicken tenders with the prepared glaze, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. Serve immediately.

Storage

  • Store any leftover tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven for best results.

Notes

Pro Tips: Ensure oil is at 350°F for optimal frying. Adjust hot sauce to taste for spice level.
Ingredient Substitutions: Use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option. Egg substitutes can be used for allergies.
How to Serve: Serve with fries, coleslaw, or salad.
Storage & Freshness: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare glaze in advance and reheat before use.
Keyword crispy chicken tenders, hot honey fried chicken, sweet spicy chicken