Hot Honey BBQ Tenders

by

Hot Honey BBQ Tenders: A Sweet and Spicy Delight

Hot Honey BBQ Tenders bring together the perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and smoky flavors. These crispy chicken tenders, coated in a luscious hot honey BBQ glaze, are the ultimate comfort food. Whether served as an appetizer, a main course, or game-day snacks, they are sure to leave everyone craving more. This recipe is a blend of classic Southern fried chicken and the bold, exciting twist of honey-infused barbecue sauce with a kick of heat.

History of Hot Honey BBQ Tenders

The concept of honey and barbecue sauce has long been a staple in Southern and barbecue culture, known for its sweet and tangy pairing. The addition of heat, often in the form of chili flakes or hot sauce, is a more recent twist, inspired by the rising popularity of Nashville hot chicken. This dish combines the love of fried chicken with the rich complexity of hot honey BBQ sauce, appealing to those who enjoy bold and layered flavors.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Tenders

  • Chicken Tenders: 1 pound
  • Buttermilk: 1 cup
  • Hot Sauce: 1 tablespoon (optional, for marinade)
  • Flour: 2 cups
  • Cornstarch: 1/2 cup
  • Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon
  • Onion Powder: 1 teaspoon
  • Paprika: 1 teaspoon
  • Salt: 1 teaspoon
  • Black Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon
  • Oil: For frying (vegetable or canola oil works well)

For the Hot Honey BBQ Sauce

  • Honey: 1/3 cup
  • Barbecue Sauce: 1/2 cup
  • Hot Sauce: 2 tablespoons (adjust to taste)
  • Butter: 2 tablespoons
  • Apple Cider Vinegar: 1 teaspoon
  • Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: 1/2 teaspoon (optional, for extra heat)

Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

  1. In a bowl, combine buttermilk and hot sauce. Add the chicken tenders, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for extra tenderness.

Step 2: Prepare the Coating

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

  1. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting excess buttermilk drip off.
  2. Dredge each tender in the flour mixture, pressing firmly to ensure a thorough coating. Place on a wire rack to rest for 10 minutes.

Step 4: Fry the Chicken

  1. Heat oil in a deep skillet or Dutch oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Fry the tenders in batches for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.

Step 5: Make the Hot Honey BBQ Sauce

  1. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine honey, barbecue sauce, hot sauce, butter, apple cider vinegar, and red pepper flakes.
  2. Stir until the butter is melted and the sauce is well combined. Simmer for 2-3 minutes.

Step 6: Toss and Serve

  1. Place the cooked chicken tenders in a large bowl. Pour the hot honey BBQ sauce over them and toss to coat evenly.
  2. Serve immediately with dipping sauces like ranch or blue cheese and a side of coleslaw or fries.

Methods and Techniques

  1. Marination: The buttermilk marinade tenderizes the chicken and adds a subtle tangy flavor.
  2. Double Dredging: For extra crispy tenders, dredge the chicken in the flour mixture twice, with a quick dip in water in between.
  3. Temperature Control: Use a thermometer to maintain consistent oil temperature for perfectly fried chicken.
  4. Tossing: Coat the tenders with the sauce just before serving to keep them crispy.

Benefits of Hot Honey BBQ Tenders

  1. Protein-Packed: Chicken tenders are an excellent source of lean protein.
  2. Rich Flavor Profile: The combination of sweet honey, smoky BBQ, and spicy hot sauce satisfies multiple cravings in one dish.
  3. Versatility: Serve these tenders as a snack, a meal, or part of a party platter.
  4. Customizable Heat Levels: Adjust the spice to suit all taste preferences, from mild to fiery.
  5. High in Protein
    Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle repair, immune function, and overall body maintenance. Each tender provides a substantial amount of protein, helping to keep you full and satisfied for longer periods.

    2. Balanced Flavor Profile
    The combination of sweet honey, smoky barbecue sauce, and spicy heat offers a well-rounded flavor that satisfies multiple cravings in one dish. The balance of sweet, spicy, and savory makes these tenders appealing to a wide variety of palates.

    3. Versatile
    Hot Honey BBQ Tenders are incredibly versatile. They can be served as a main dish, appetizer, or part of a party platter. You can customize the level of heat in the sauce to suit your personal preferences, from mild to spicy, making them suitable for a wide range of guests.

    4. Convenient and Easy to Make
    This recipe is simple to prepare with ingredients that are easy to find. The chicken can be marinated and fried in under an hour, making it a perfect option for busy weeknights, quick family meals, or last-minute gatherings.

    5. Customizable for Dietary Preferences
    You can easily adapt this recipe to meet different dietary needs. For example:
    Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour or a specialized breadcrumb coating.
    Lower Fat: Opt for a healthier frying method, such as baking or air frying the tenders instead of deep frying.
    Spice Level: Adjust the amount of hot sauce and red pepper flakes in the hot honey BBQ sauce to control the heat.

    6. Energy Boosting
    The combination of protein, carbohydrates (from the BBQ sauce and any sides you serve with), and healthy fats gives you a well-rounded meal that provides sustained energy. Perfect for refueling after exercise or powering through a busy day.

    7. Social and Fun Food
    These tenders are perfect for sharing at parties, barbecues, or casual get-togethers. Their finger-food nature makes them a fun and interactive dish for everyone to enjoy. Paired with dipping sauces, they’re sure to be a hit.

    8. Comforting and Satisfying
    Fried chicken with a flavorful sauce is always comforting. The crispiness of the tenders combined with the warm, spicy sauce provides that satisfying crunch and deep flavor that makes comfort food so appealing.

    9. Nutrient-Rich
    Depending on how you prepare them, hot honey BBQ tenders can be a good source of several nutrients, including vitamins and minerals from the chicken (like B vitamins and iron), and healthy fats if you choose high-quality oils for frying.

    10. Quick and Meal Prep Friendly
    These tenders are great for meal prepping. They can be made in bulk, stored in the fridge, and reheated for quick meals throughout the week. The sauce also works well with leftovers, ensuring that the tenders stay flavorful even after a couple of days.

Hot Honey BBQ Tenders are more than just a mouthwatering dish — they offer protein, versatility, and convenience, with the added bonus of being easily customizable. Whether you’re enjoying them as a snack, main course, or party platter, they’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser and a satisfying choice for any occasion!

Nutritional Information (Per Serving: Approx. 2 Tenders)

  • Calories: ~350 kcal
  • Protein: 20g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Total Fat: 15g
    • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Sugars: 12g
  • Calories: ~350 kcal
  • Protein: 20g
  • Total Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 12g
  • Total Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Vitamin A: 4% DV
  • Vitamin C: 2% DV
  • Calcium: 4% DV
  • Iron: 6% DV

Note on Variability

The nutritional content can vary based on:

  • Frying Method: Deep frying tends to increase calorie and fat content. For a lighter version, you can bake or air fry the tenders.
  • Sauce: The amount of honey and hot sauce used will affect the sugar and carbohydrate content. Reducing the honey or using a sugar-free BBQ sauce can lower the overall sugar intake.

These tenders offer a great balance of protein, fats, and carbohydrates, making them a satisfying meal or snack option when enjoyed in moderation.

Why People Love Hot Honey BBQ Tenders

Hot Honey BBQ Tenders are a crowd favorite because they deliver the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Food lovers adore the crispy coating, tender chicken, and the bold, sweet-heat punch of the sauce. They’re ideal for any occasion, from family dinners to game-day feasts.

Conclusion

Hot Honey BBQ Tenders are a delightful fusion of crispy fried chicken and bold, flavorful sauce. They’re easy to prepare, versatile, and guaranteed to impress anyone who tries them. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply treating yourself, these tenders are a winning choice. Pair them with your favorite sides, and enjoy the sweet and spicy perfection!

Leave a Comment