Crispy Honey Butter Chicken Tenders Recipe
Ingredients
For the Chicken Tenders:
- 1.5 lbs chicken tenderloins or boneless chicken breasts, cut into strips
- 2 cups buttermilk
- 2 tsp hot sauce (optional but recommended)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Honey Butter Glaze:
- 1/3 cup honey
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a kick)
- Pinch of salt
For the Creamy Dipping Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Marinate the Chicken:
- Combine chicken tenders, buttermilk, and hot sauce in a bowl.
- Cover and refrigerate for 1 hour to overnight (the longer, the juicier).
2. Prepare the Breading:
- In a separate large bowl, mix flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, salt, and pepper.
3. Bread the Chicken:
- Remove chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off.
- Coat each strip in the seasoned flour mixture. Press down to make sure it adheres well.
- For extra crunch, double dip: back into the buttermilk, then into the flour again.
4. Fry the Chicken:
- Heat oil in a heavy skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry chicken tenders in batches for 5–7 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Drain on a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate.
5. Make the Honey Butter Glaze:
- In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.
- Add honey, red pepper flakes, and a pinch of salt.
- Stir well and keep warm.
6. Make the Dipping Sauce:
- In a bowl, whisk together mayo, Dijon, honey, vinegar, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Refrigerate until ready to serve.
7. Glaze the Chicken:
- Once fried, drizzle or brush the chicken tenders with warm honey butter glaze.
- Serve immediately with dipping sauce.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with fries, mashed potatoes, or coleslaw.
- Perfect for a party platter, game day, or family dinner.
Pro Tips:
- Cornstarch in the breading = crispier crunch!
- Don’t overcrowd the pan while frying.
- Want it spicy? Add extra hot sauce to the marinade or cayenne to the flour.
Benefits:
- High protein, family-friendly
- Easy to prep ahead
- Better than fast food—because it’s homemade!
Conclusion:
This is next-level chicken—crispy outside, juicy inside, kissed with sweet and spicy honey butter, and dunked in creamy sauce. Your plate will be empty in minutes.