If you’re craving the perfect balance of sweet heat and crispy goodness, these Hot Honey BBQ Tenders are about to become your new go-to recipe. This dish combines golden, crunchy chicken tenders with a bold, sticky glaze made from BBQ sauce, hot sauce, and honey. It’s comfort food elevated to the next level! Follow this simple step-by-step guide for a meal your family or guests will rave about.
Why You’ll Love These Hot Honey BBQ Tenders
- Ultimate Flavor Combination: The sweet honey and tangy BBQ sauce pair perfectly with the spicy kick of hot sauce and Creole seasoning.
- Crispy Perfection: Thanks to seasoned flour and proper frying techniques, the chicken is irresistibly crispy.
- Versatile Dipping Sauce: The creamy ranch dip brings a cool, refreshing balance to the bold flavors.
Ingredients for Hot Honey BBQ Tenders
Before you dive in, make sure you have the following ingredients on hand:
For the Chicken Tenders:
- 2 pounds of chicken tenders
- 2 cups of all-purpose flour
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- 1 tablespoon Creole seasoning
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
For the Hot Honey BBQ Sauce:
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- ½ cup honey
- ¼ cup hot sauce
For the Ranch Dipping Sauce:
- 1 dry ranch dip packet
- 8 oz sour cream
- ¼ cup buttermilk
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Season the Chicken Tenders
- In a mixing bowl, season the chicken tenders with:
- 1 tablespoon of Creole seasoning
- 1 tablespoon of garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon of onion powder
- 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper
- In a separate bowl, add the flour and season it with the same blend of spices. Mix well to ensure even coating.
Step 2: Fry the Chicken Tenders
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat. Ensure the oil reaches 350°F for optimal frying.
- Dredge each chicken tender in the seasoned flour, shaking off any excess.
- Carefully place the tenders into the hot oil, frying for 5-6 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
- Transfer the fried tenders to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Step 3: Make the Hot Honey BBQ Sauce
- In a small saucepan over low heat, combine:
- 1 cup of BBQ sauce
- ½ cup of honey
- ¼ cup of hot sauce
- Whisk the mixture until it is smooth and heated through. Remove from heat.
Step 4: Coat the Tenders
- Place the fried chicken tenders in a large mixing bowl.
- Pour the hot honey BBQ sauce over the tenders and toss gently to ensure every piece is evenly coated.
Step 5: Prepare the Ranch Dipping Sauce
- In a small mixing bowl, combine:
- 1 dry ranch dip packet
- 8 oz sour cream
- ¼ cup buttermilk
- Mix until smooth and creamy.
Tips for Perfect Hot Honey BBQ Tenders
- Double Dredge for Extra Crispiness: For ultra-crispy tenders, dip the chicken in buttermilk before dredging in flour. Repeat this process twice.
- Temperature Control: Use a thermometer to maintain consistent oil temperature during frying. Too hot, and the chicken will burn; too low, and it’ll become greasy.
- Customize the Heat: Adjust the spice level in the sauce by adding more or less hot sauce, depending on your preference.
- Serve Fresh: These tenders are best enjoyed hot and fresh out of the pan to maintain their crispy texture.
Serving Suggestions
Hot Honey BBQ Tenders are incredibly versatile and can be served as a meal or an appetizer. Here are a few ideas:
- As a Main Dish: Pair with coleslaw, macaroni and cheese, or cornbread for a hearty meal.
- Game Day Snack: Serve as finger food with extra dipping sauce on the side.
- In a Sandwich: Use the tenders to build a flavorful sandwich with pickles, lettuce, and a toasted bun.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~320
- Protein: 22g
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bake the chicken tenders instead of frying?
Yes! Preheat your oven to 400°F and place the breaded tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spray lightly with cooking oil and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Can I make the sauce spicier?
Absolutely. Add an extra teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a dash of red chili flakes to the sauce for more heat.
How long can I store leftovers?
Store leftover tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven at 350°F to maintain crispiness.
Can I use chicken breast instead of tenders?
Yes, slice chicken breasts into strips, and you’ll achieve similar results.
These Hot Honey BBQ Tenders are the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a family dinner, this recipe will leave everyone coming back for seconds. With their perfect blend of crispy texture, bold flavor, and creamy dipping sauce, these tenders are destined to become a favorite in your household.
So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients and start cooking!
