There’s a special kind of magic that happens when sweet meets spicy, and this is exactly what you’ll discover with my Hot Honey Chicken Tenders. As I was experimenting in the kitchen, the idea for this recipe came to life—crispy chicken tenders drizzled with a tantalizing hot honey glaze, paired perfectly with creamy Baked Mac and Cheese. This comfort food duo brings people together, making it the ideal centerpiece for family dinners or get-togethers. Not only is this meal a flavor-packed experience sure to impress, but it’s also a breeze to whip up, inviting both seasoned chefs and curious beginners alike to unleash their inner culinary artist. Who wouldn’t want a plateful of crispy tenderness and cheesy goodness? Let’s dive into the recipe and create a dish that promises to warm both your heart and your home!
Why Are These Chicken Tenders Irresistible?
Irresistible Flavor: The combination of crispy chicken tenders and a sweet-and-spicy hot honey glaze elevates this dish to new heights, providing an exciting balance of flavors.
Easy to Make: You’ll appreciate how simple the recipe is, making it accessible for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs.
Ultimate Comfort Food: The pairing with creamy baked mac and cheese creates a comforting meal perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: This dish is sure to be a hit, offering something everyone loves—tender chicken and cheesy pasta.
Make-It-Mine: Feel free to personalize the recipe by adjusting the heat level or cheese blend. You can even explore delicious variations by adding a crunchy topping to the mac and cheese for extra texture or checking out other comforting recipes like Sticky BBQ Chicken and Anti-Inflammatory Chicken Soup.
Hot Honey Chicken Tenders Ingredients
• Let’s gather everything you’ll need for these irresistible hot honey chicken tenders!
For the Chicken Tenders
- Chicken Tenders – a main protein source; marinate in buttermilk for utmost tenderness.
- Buttermilk – tenderizes chicken, enhancing flavor; substitute with milk and lemon juice if needed.
- All-purpose Flour – coats the chicken for that perfect crispy texture.
- Paprika – adds a lovely color and a mild smokiness to your coating.
- Garlic Powder – infuses savory depth into each tender bite.
- Salt & Black Pepper – essential seasonings to elevate the chicken flavor.
- Oil for Frying – choose high smoke point oil like canola or vegetable for frying perfection.
- Honey – the star of the sweet component in your hot honey glaze.
- Hot Sauce – brings the heat; cayenne-based sauces like Frank’s RedHot are ideal—adjust to your preference.
- Butter (melted) – enhances richness in the glaze, making it oh-so-delicious.
For the Baked Mac and Cheese
- Elbow Macaroni – classic pasta base; feel free to swap with shells or cavatappi.
- Butter (for sauce) – key to creating a luscious roux for your cheese sauce.
- Milk – provides creaminess essential for that velvety cheese sauce.
- Cheddar Cheese – the main flavor-packed cheese in your mac and cheese.
- Mozzarella Cheese – adds creaminess and a gooey, stretchy texture.
- Salt, Black Pepper, Garlic Powder – seasonings that will elevate your mac and cheese to heavenly heights.
Dive into these Hot Honey Chicken Tenders and let these ingredients take you on a comforting culinary journey!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Hot Honey Chicken Tenders
Step 1: Marinate Chicken
Begin by soaking the chicken tenders in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes. This essential step will tenderize the meat and help the flavors penetrate. You can place them in a bowl and cover it with plastic wrap or use a zip-top bag to make cleanup easier. Once marinated, the chicken will be ready for a crispy coating.
Step 2: Prepare Coating
While the chicken marinates, combine all-purpose flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl. Mix well to ensure all the seasonings are evenly distributed, creating an aromatic and flavorful coating. This dry mixture is crucial for achieving the perfect crunch on your Hot Honey Chicken Tenders.
Step 3: Coat Chicken
Take each marinated chicken tender and dredge it thoroughly in the flour mixture, ensuring it’s completely coated on all sides. Shake off any excess flour and place the coated tenders on a plate. This step ensures that your tenders will have a delightful and crispy exterior when fried.
Step 4: Fry Chicken
In a large skillet, heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Carefully place the coated chicken tenders in the hot oil, frying them in batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook for about 5 to 7 minutes, turning occasionally, until they reach a golden-brown color. Once cooked, drain the tenders on paper towels to absorb excess oil.
Step 5: Make Hot Honey Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together honey, hot sauce, and melted butter until combined. This glaze will be the star of the Hot Honey Chicken Tenders. Once the chicken is fried and still warm, generously brush or drizzle this delicious mixture over the tenders, ensuring each piece is coated in that sweet, spicy goodness.
Step 6: Prepare Baked Mac and Cheese
As the chicken rests, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature is perfect for baking your creamy mac and cheese to bubbly perfection. Grab your favorite baking dish and set it aside while you whip up the cheese sauce.
Step 7: Make Cheese Sauce
In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat, then whisk in flour to create a roux. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly until the mixture thickens. Once thickened, stir in shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese along with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder until everything is smooth and velvety.
Step 8: Combine Macaroni
Toss the cooked elbow macaroni with the creamy cheese sauce until every noodle is luxuriously coated. Pour this cheesy mixture into your greased baking dish, making sure it’s evenly spread. For bonus flavor, you can sprinkle additional cheese on top for a delightful golden crust while baking.
Step 9: Bake Mac and Cheese
Place your assembled mac and cheese in the preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. Keep an eye on it, as you want to achieve that perfectly crisp texture while ensuring the cheesy goodness beneath is warm and inviting.
These Hot Honey Chicken Tenders paired with creamy Baked Mac and Cheese are sure to become a beloved favorite at your family dinners!
Expert Tips for Hot Honey Chicken Tenders
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Perfect Temperature: Ensure your oil is at 350°F (175°C) for frying. If the oil is too cold, the chicken will absorb excess oil; too hot, and it may burn.
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Marination Time: For tender and flavorful chicken tenders, let them marinate in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes. This step is crucial to achieve that juicy texture.
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Consistent Coating: When dredging the chicken, make sure it’s evenly coated in flour to achieve a crispy exterior. Shake off any excess before frying to prevent a clumpy crust.
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Glazing Timing: Brush the hot honey glaze onto the chicken while it’s still warm for better adhesion. This maximizes flavor and ensures each tender is enveloped in sweetness.
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Don’t Rush Baking: When baking mac and cheese, cover it with foil during the first half to ensure it cooks evenly and the cheese melts beautifully without burning.
What to Serve with Hot Honey Chicken Tenders
Imagine a cozy family gathering, where the table is filled with delicious options that elevate your meal to unforgettable levels.
- Creamy Coleslaw: The crunch of fresh cabbage, paired with a tangy dressing, adds a refreshing contrast to the sweet and spicy chicken.
- Garlic Breadsticks: Soft, buttery breadsticks provide that perfect vessel for soaking up the savory goodness from the cheesy mac and honey glaze.
- Steamed Broccoli: Bright green and cooked to just the right tenderness, steamed broccoli brings a vibrant color and nutritional balance to your plate.
- Cornbread Muffins: These slightly sweet muffins are a Southern classic that echoes the warmth of the dish, making every bite a little piece of home.
- Pickles and Jalapeños: Adding a zesty crunch and a punch of flavor, these tangy bites offer a delightful contrast to the richness of the tenders and mac and cheese.
- Sweet Tea: A chilled glass of sweet tea complements the heat from the chicken tenders perfectly, making for a classic Southern beverage pairing.
- Chocolate Chip Cookies: End your meal on a sweet note with warm, gooey cookies that bring out the comforting vibes of this delicious menu.
- Fruit Salad: A mix of fresh, seasonal fruits provides a refreshing and naturally sweet burst of flavor, perfect for cleansing the palate between bites.
- Ice Cream Sundaes: For dessert, a build-your-own sundae bar creates a fun, interactive experience that rounds off the meal with indulgence and joy.
Storage Tips for Hot Honey Chicken Tenders
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To maintain moisture, place a paper towel inside the container to absorb excess moisture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze cooked chicken tenders individually. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To reheat, bake frozen tenders at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through and crispy again. A splash of water in the oven can help steam them for added moisture.
Mac and Cheese Storage: Leftover baked mac and cheese can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days and frozen for up to 2 months. Just reheat gently in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of milk to refresh the creaminess.
Hot Honey Chicken Tenders Variations
Feel free to mix things up and personalize your Hot Honey Chicken Tenders for a taste that’s all your own!
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Milder Heat: Reduce the amount of hot sauce for a kid-friendly version or a more subtle kick.
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Gluten-Free Option: Swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for the coating, ensuring everyone can enjoy this crispy delight.
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Extra Crunch: For added texture, sprinkle panko breadcrumbs on top of the mac and cheese before baking, creating a delightful crust that’s sure to be a favorite.
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Cheesy Mac Twist: Experiment with different cheeses like gouda, pepper jack, or even blue cheese for a bold twist on the baked mac and cheese.
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Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the honey glaze for an extra layer of heat that spice lovers will adore.
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Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like parsley or chives into your mac and cheese for a fragrant touch that brightens up your dish.
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Sweet Potatoes: Mix in roasted sweet potatoes with the mac and cheese for a comforting, earthy sweetness that complements the richness of the dish.
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Asian-Inspired Glaze: Swap honey for maple syrup and add soy sauce to the glaze for an innovative twist that offers a sweet-savory profile. If you’re looking for more inspiration, check out my recipe for Persian Style Chicken or Halloween Buffalo Chicken.
Feel free to get creative! Your adventure in the kitchen is just beginning.
Make Ahead Options
These Hot Honey Chicken Tenders and Baked Mac and Cheese are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken in buttermilk for up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring maximum tenderness and flavor. Additionally, both the chicken tenders can be breaded and refrigerated for up to 8 hours before frying—just ensure to cover them to prevent drying out. The Baked Mac and Cheese can be assembled up to 1 day ahead; simply cover it tightly with foil and refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, bake the mac and cheese directly from the fridge for about 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden. This thoughtful prep allows you to enjoy a delicious home-cooked meal with minimal stress on busy weeknights!
Hot Honey Chicken Tenders Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken should I use for the Hot Honey Chicken Tenders?
Absolutely! For the best results, I recommend using fresh chicken tenders as they are tender and cook quickly. If unavailable, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into strips, but make sure they are evenly sized to promote even cooking.
How do I store leftover Hot Honey Chicken Tenders?
To keep your leftover chicken tenders at their best, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. I also suggest placing a paper towel inside to absorb any excess moisture, which helps maintain their crispiness during storage.
Can I freeze cooked chicken tenders?
Yes, you can! I often freeze cooked chicken tenders for later enjoyment. To do this, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. After that, transfer the tenders to a freezer bag, removing as much air as possible, where they can be stored for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, just bake them from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through and crispy again.
What should I do if my chicken tenders turn out soggy?
Very! If you find your chicken tenders are soggy, it might be due to insufficient oil temperature. Ensure your oil is at 350°F (175°C) before adding the chicken. Additionally, make sure you’re not overcrowding the pan, as this lowers the oil temperature. For future reference, draining the fried chicken on paper towels will help absorb excess oil too.
Can I adjust the heat level in the hot honey glaze?
Of course! If you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce the amount of hot sauce used in the glaze. Alternatively, you could mix in a teaspoon of brown sugar to balance out the heat, or even skip the hot sauce altogether for a sweet honey glaze.
Are Hot Honey Chicken Tenders suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes! You can easily make these chicken tenders gluten-free. Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just be sure to check the labels on your seasoning and hot sauce to ensure they are also gluten-free. Enjoy this dish without compromise!
Crispy Hot Honey Chicken Tenders for Ultimate Comfort Food
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Marinate chicken tenders in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes.
- Combine flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper in a bowl.
- Dredge marinated chicken in the flour mixture until fully coated.
- Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) and fry chicken tenders until golden brown for 5-7 minutes.
- Drain on paper towels.
- Whisk together honey, hot sauce, and melted butter to make glaze. Drizzle over hot chicken tenders.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Melt butter in a saucepan, whisk in flour, then gradually add milk to make a roux.
- Stir in cheeses until smooth.
- Combine cooked macaroni with cheese sauce, spread in greased baking dish.
- Bake for 20 minutes until top is golden.
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