If you are craving a dish that perfectly balances golden, crunchy exterior with tender, juicy chicken inside, then you have to try this Crispy Honey Butter Chicken Tenders Recipe. It’s a delightful treat where the classic comfort of crispy fried chicken meets the sweet, buttery drizzle of honey butter sauce. Whether you’re feeding a family or looking for an impressive but straightforward dish to wow guests, these chicken tenders deliver incredible flavor and texture that will keep everyone going back for more. Plus, the honey butter glaze adds that unique touch that takes this recipe from simply delicious to irresistibly addictive.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients might seem simple, but each one plays a crucial role in building the perfect crispy crust and mouthwatering honey butter sauce. The seasoning blends into the flour to give depth, while the panko breadcrumbs create that much-desired crunch, and the honey butter brings a luscious finish you won’t want to miss.
- 1 1/2 pounds chicken tenders: Fresh, tender chicken pieces that cook quickly while staying juicy.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: Forms the base for the crispy coating.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle kick without overpowering the chicken.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Gives a gentle smoky aroma and vibrant color.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Brings a savory depth, used both in the dry mix and sauce.
- 2 large eggs: Acts as the glue that helps the breadcrumbs stick perfectly.
- 2 tablespoons milk: Lightens the egg wash for even coating.
- 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs: Japanese-style breadcrumbs for that signature crunch.
- Vegetable oil for frying: Use enough for shallow frying to achieve an even, golden crust.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter: Creates the rich, silky base of the honey butter sauce.
- 1/3 cup honey: The sweet star that perfectly balances the savory chicken.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder for sauce: Enhances the buttery, sweet glaze with just a hint of garlic.
How to Make Crispy Honey Butter Chicken Tenders Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken and Coatings
Start by patting the chicken tenders dry with paper towels; this simple step helps the coating adhere better. Next, mix the flour, salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder in a shallow bowl—this seasoned flour is where the flavor journey begins. In another bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk, forming the wet layer. Then place the panko breadcrumbs in a third bowl for the final crunchy coating. This three-step dredging method is the key to that crispy exterior you adore.
Step 2: Dredge and Coat Each Tender
Take each chicken tender and first coat it thoroughly in the seasoned flour mixture. Then dip it into the egg wash, making sure it’s covered evenly. Finally, press it into the panko breadcrumbs so every inch is coated with a thick, crunchy layer. If you want extra crispy tenders, double-dredge by repeating the egg and breadcrumb step once more. This process ensures your tenders will fry up with maximum crispiness and a golden color that’s impossible to resist.
Step 3: Fry Until Perfectly Golden
Heat about one inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat until it reaches 350°F. Fry the tenders in batches for 3 to 4 minutes on each side, or until they develop a beautiful golden-brown crust and the internal temperature reads 165°F. Avoid overcrowding the pan so each tender fries evenly. Once cooked, place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil—this keeps them crisp without being greasy.
Step 4: Whip Up the Honey Butter Sauce
While the chicken is frying, melt the butter gently in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir in the honey and garlic powder, mixing until silky and just slightly thickened. This sweet, savory sauce is the magic touch that transforms the chicken tenders, so be sure to keep it warm until you are ready to glaze the chicken.
Step 5: Coat or Drizzle and Serve
To finish, you can either drizzle the warm honey butter over the crispy chicken tenders or toss them gently in the sauce, coating every crumb with that luscious glaze. This final step seals in all the flavors and delivers that perfect balance of crunchy, buttery, and sweet that makes this Crispy Honey Butter Chicken Tenders Recipe such a crowd-pleaser.
How to Serve Crispy Honey Butter Chicken Tenders Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a pinch of red pepper flakes adds not only color but a fresh contrast to the sweet and savory chicken tenders. Lightly dusting with a tiny bit of flaky sea salt right after glazing can also enhance the flavors even more.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with crispy fries, a crisp green salad, or even some creamy mashed potatoes. For a fun twist, try serving it alongside pickled vegetables or coleslaw, which bring brightness and crunch to balance the rich honey butter coating.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party or casual get-together, arrange the chicken tenders on a large platter lined with parchment paper and provide small bowls of extra honey butter sauce or spicy aioli for dipping. You can also make slider sandwiches by placing the tenders in soft buns with lettuce and mayo for a handheld delight everyone will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Crispy Honey Butter Chicken Tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep as much crispiness as possible, place a paper towel in the container to absorb excess moisture.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked tenders by laying them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep well up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
Reheat tenders in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. Using the oven or an air fryer helps maintain the crispy texture better than microwaving, which can make them soggy.
FAQs
Can I bake these chicken tenders instead of frying?
Absolutely! Baking at 400°F for 20 to 25 minutes yields a slightly healthier version with great crispiness, especially if you spray the tenders lightly with oil before baking. An air fryer also works wonderfully for a quick, crispy alternative.
Is it necessary to use panko breadcrumbs?
Panko breadcrumbs provide a lighter and crunchier texture compared to regular breadcrumbs. However, if you don’t have panko on hand, you can use traditional breadcrumbs, but the crust might be a bit denser.
Can I make the honey butter sauce ahead of time?
You can prepare the honey butter sauce in advance and gently reheat it before tossing or drizzling on the chicken tenders. Just warm it over low heat while stirring to keep it smooth and pourable.
What dipping sauces go well with Crispy Honey Butter Chicken Tenders Recipe?
Besides the honey butter glaze, these tenders taste fantastic with ranch dressing, spicy mayo, or even a tangy barbecue sauce. Offering a variety of dips makes them even more fun and versatile for any occasion.
How can I make the tenders extra crispy?
The secret is in the double dredging step—repeating the egg wash and panko coating ensures a thicker crust. Also, frying at the right temperature (350°F) prevents the coating from soaking up too much oil, resulting in maximum crunch.
Final Thoughts
If you love chicken that’s crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and glistening with a sweet and buttery glaze, this Crispy Honey Butter Chicken Tenders Recipe is a must-try. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner but special enough to impress your family or friends. I hope you enjoy making and sharing this delicious dish as much as I do—it’s truly one of those recipes that feels like a warm hug on a plate!
Print
Crispy Honey Butter Chicken Tenders Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
Crispy Honey Butter Chicken Tenders offer a delightful combination of crunchy fried chicken coated in a luscious honey butter sauce. Perfectly seasoned and fried to golden perfection, these tenders make a quick and satisfying main course ideal for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Tenders
- 1 1/2 pounds chicken tenders
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs
- Vegetable oil for frying (about 1 inch depth)
For the Honey Butter Sauce
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps the coatings stick better and ensures a crispy texture.
- Mix Dredging Ingredients: In a shallow bowl, combine flour, salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs and milk. Place panko breadcrumbs in a third bowl.
- Coat the Chicken: Dredge each chicken tender first in the seasoned flour mixture. Then dip it into the egg mixture, making sure it is fully coated. Finally, press the tender thoroughly into the panko breadcrumbs so it is completely covered.
- Heat the Oil: Pour about 1 inch of vegetable oil into a large skillet and heat over medium heat until it reaches 350°F. Use a thermometer for accuracy to achieve perfect crispiness without oil absorption.
- Fry the Chicken: Fry the coated tenders in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the skillet. Cook each side for 3 to 4 minutes until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Use a meat thermometer to ensure doneness.
- Drain Tenders: Remove the fried chicken tenders with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil and maintain crispness.
- Make Honey Butter Sauce: In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the butter. Stir in honey and garlic powder continuously until the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened.
- Coat and Serve: Drizzle the warm honey butter sauce over the crispy chicken tenders or gently toss them in the sauce until evenly coated. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, double dredge the chicken by repeating the egg and breadcrumb steps before frying.
- To make a lighter version, bake the tenders at 400°F for 20 to 25 minutes or air fry at 375°F for 12 to 15 minutes.
- Serve immediately after coating with honey butter sauce to maintain the crispy texture.
- Ensure oil temperature remains steady at 350°F during frying for best results.
