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Ultra Crispy Baked Hot Honey Chicken Tenders

A close-up of crispy, golden brown hot honey chicken tenders generously coated in a glossy, spicy glaze.

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Make ultra-crispy chicken tenders baked in the oven and coated in a balanced sweet and spicy hot honey glaze. This recipe delivers juicy chicken with a satisfying crunch.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch strips
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup honey
  • 2 tablespoons hot sauce (use more for extra heat)
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon butter

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place a wire rack on top of the sheet. Lightly spray the rack with cooking spray.
  2. Set up a dredging station: Place flour, salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder in a shallow dish. In a second dish, place the beaten eggs. In a third dish, place the panko breadcrumbs.
  3. Dredge each chicken tender first in the flour mixture, shaking off excess. Dip it into the egg mixture, letting excess drip off. Finally, press firmly into the panko breadcrumbs to coat completely.
  4. Place the coated tenders on the prepared wire rack, ensuring they do not touch.
  5. Bake for 18 to 22 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden brown and crisp.
  6. While the chicken bakes, prepare the hot honey glaze. In a small saucepan over low heat, combine the honey, hot sauce, apple cider vinegar, and butter. Stir until the butter melts and the mixture is smooth. Do not boil.
  7. Remove the baked tenders from the oven. Immediately toss the hot tenders in the prepared hot honey glaze until evenly coated.
  8. Serve the hot honey chicken tenders immediately for the best crispness.

Notes

  • For extra crispiness, spray the tops of the breaded tenders lightly with cooking spray before baking.
  • If you prefer an air fryer method, cook at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway.
  • Adjust the amount of hot sauce in the glaze to control the spice level to your preference.

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