Make delicious and crispy honey battered chicken tenders at home with this easy recipe. Learn how to prepare the chicken, create the batter, fry the tenders, and drizzle them with honey for a mouthwatering meal.
Ingredients for Honey Battered Chicken Tenders
When it comes to making delicious honey battered chicken tenders, it’s all about having the right ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in creating the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Let’s take a closer look at the key ingredients you’ll need for this mouthwatering dish:
Chicken breast
The star of the show, chicken breast, is what gives these tenders their tender and juicy texture. It’s important to use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe to ensure even cooking and easy slicing. You can either buy pre-cut chicken tenders or slice the chicken breast into thin strips yourself.
All-purpose flour
All-purpose flour is the base of the batter and helps create a crispy coating for the chicken tenders. It’s a versatile ingredient that adds structure and texture to the dish. Make sure to sift the flour to remove any lumps and ensure a smooth batter.
Honey
As the name suggests, honey is the sweet and sticky element that adds a delightful touch of sweetness to the chicken tenders. It not only enhances the flavor but also helps to create a beautiful golden color when the tenders are fried. Use pure honey for the best results.
Eggs
Eggs act as a binding agent in the batter, helping to hold everything together. They also contribute to the tenders’ moistness and add richness to the overall flavor. Be sure to beat the eggs well before incorporating them into the batter.
Baking powder
Baking powder is a leavening agent that gives the batter a light and airy texture. It helps the batter to rise slightly when fried, resulting in a crispy and fluffy coating on the chicken tenders. Make sure to use fresh baking powder for optimal results.
Salt and pepper
To bring out the flavors in all the other ingredients, salt and pepper are essential. They add a savory element and help to balance the sweetness of the honey. Season the chicken tenders and the batter with salt and pepper to taste.
Now that we’ve covered the main ingredients, let’s move on to the preparation steps for creating these delectable honey battered chicken tenders.
Preparation Steps for Honey Battered Chicken Tenders
Preparing the chicken:
To start making delicious honey battered chicken tenders, you’ll need to prepare the chicken first. Begin by gathering boneless, skinless chicken breasts and cutting them into long, thin strips. This will ensure that the chicken cooks evenly and results in tender, juicy pieces.
Creating the batter:
The batter is what gives the chicken tenders their crispy coating. In a mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper. These ingredients will add flavor and help the batter rise slightly, creating a light and airy texture. Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices to the batter for an extra kick of flavor.
Dredging the chicken in the batter:
Now that the batter is ready, it’s time to coat the chicken. Take each chicken strip and dip it into the batter, ensuring that it is fully coated on all sides. This will create a protective layer around the chicken, keeping it moist while frying and adding a delightful crunch to every bite.
Frying the chicken tenders:
In a deep fryer or large skillet, heat vegetable oil to a temperature of around 350°F (175°C). It’s important to maintain the oil temperature throughout the frying process to achieve perfectly crispy chicken tenders. Carefully place the battered chicken strips into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them for about 4-5 minutes per side until they turn golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Drizzling with honey:
Once the chicken tenders are cooked to perfection, it’s time to add a touch of sweetness. Drizzle honey over the hot chicken tenders, allowing it to seep into the cracks and crevices of the crispy coating. The honey adds a delightful contrast to the savory flavors and brings a hint of natural sweetness to each bite.
By following these preparation steps, you’ll be able to create a mouthwatering batch of honey battered chicken tenders. The combination of the tender chicken, crispy coating, and sweet honey drizzle is sure to satisfy your taste buds and leave you craving more.
Preparing the chicken
To ensure the chicken is ready for battering, start by gathering boneless, skinless chicken breasts. These can be easily found at your local grocery store or butcher. Using a sharp knife, cut the chicken breasts into long, thin strips. This will help them cook more evenly and result in tender, juicy chicken tenders.
Creating the batter
The batter is what gives the chicken tenders their crispy coating. In a mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper. The all-purpose flour acts as a binding agent, while the baking powder helps the batter rise slightly, creating a lighter texture. Season the batter with salt and pepper to enhance the flavors. Feel free to get creative and add your favorite herbs or spices to customize the taste according to your preference.
Dredging the chicken in the batter
Once the batter is prepared, it’s time to coat the chicken. Take each chicken strip and dip it into the batter, ensuring that it is fully coated on all sides. The batter will create a protective layer around the chicken, preventing it from drying out while frying. The coating will also turn golden brown and crispy, adding a delightful texture to the tender chicken.
Frying the chicken tenders
To fry the chicken tenders, you’ll need a deep fryer or a large skillet. Fill the fryer or skillet with vegetable oil and heat it to a temperature of around 350°F (175°C). It’s crucial to maintain the oil temperature throughout the frying process to achieve perfectly crispy chicken tenders. Carefully place the battered chicken strips into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Frying them for about 4-5 minutes per side will result in a golden brown exterior and a fully cooked interior. Use a kitchen thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
Drizzling with honey
The final step in making honey battered chicken tenders is to add a touch of sweetness. Once the chicken tenders are cooked to perfection, remove them from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil. While the chicken is still hot, drizzle honey over the top, allowing it to seep into the cracks and crevices of the crispy coating. The honey adds a delightful contrast to the savory flavors and brings a touch of natural sweetness to each bite.
Tips for Perfectly Crispy Honey Battered Chicken Tenders
When it comes to making honey battered chicken tenders, achieving the perfect level of crispiness can sometimes be a challenge. However, with a few tips and tricks, you can ensure that your chicken tenders turn out irresistibly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Let’s dive into some valuable tips that will elevate your chicken tender game.
Properly drying the chicken before battering
One crucial step in preparing honey battered chicken tenders is properly drying the chicken before battering. This step helps remove excess moisture from the chicken, allowing the batter to adhere better and resulting in a crispier texture. To do this, start by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Removing any excess moisture will prevent the batter from becoming soggy during the frying process.
Using cold ingredients for the batter
Another tip for achieving perfectly crispy chicken tenders is to use cold ingredients when preparing the batter. Cold ingredients help create a lighter and crispier coating. Make sure to refrigerate the eggs and keep the honey chilled before using them in the batter. Additionally, it’s a good idea to place the flour and baking powder in the refrigerator for a few minutes before mixing them with the other ingredients. This will help maintain the temperature of the batter and ensure a crispy result.
Maintaining the oil temperature while frying
Maintaining the correct oil temperature during the frying process is essential for achieving crispy chicken tenders. If the oil is too hot, the outside of the tenders will brown too quickly, while the inside remains undercooked. On the other hand, if the oil is not hot enough, the tenders will absorb more oil, resulting in a greasy texture. To maintain the ideal oil temperature, use a deep-fry thermometer to monitor the heat. The temperature should be around 350°F (175°C). Adjust the heat as needed to keep it within this range.
Allowing the chicken tenders to rest before serving
After frying the chicken tenders, it’s important to allow them to rest for a few minutes before serving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute within the chicken, resulting in a more flavorful and tender bite. It also helps the coating to set and become even crispier. Simply transfer the cooked tenders to a wire rack or plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Let them rest for about 5 minutes before serving.
By following these tips, you can take your honey battered chicken tenders to the next level of crispiness. Remember to properly dry the chicken, use cold ingredients for the batter, maintain the oil temperature, and allow the tenders to rest before serving. These simple yet effective techniques will ensure that your chicken tenders are a delightfully crispy and flavorful treat.
Table:
| Tips for Perfectly Crispy Honey Battered Chicken Tenders |
|---|
| 1. Properly dry the chicken before battering |
| 2. Use cold ingredients for the batter |
| 3. Maintain the oil temperature while frying |
| 4. Allow the chicken tenders to rest before serving |
Variations of Honey Battered Chicken Tenders
When it comes to honey battered chicken tenders, there are endless possibilities to explore. By adding different flavors and seasonings, you can create a variety of unique and delicious variations. Let’s dive into three exciting variations that will take your chicken tenders to the next level.
Spicy Honey Battered Chicken Tenders
If you’re a fan of spicy food, these spicy honey battered chicken tenders will be right up your alley. The combination of heat and sweetness creates a flavor explosion that will leave your taste buds tingling. Here’s how you can make them:
- Start by following the preparation steps for honey battered chicken tenders mentioned earlier.
- To add the spicy element, mix some cayenne pepper, paprika, and a touch of chili powder into the all-purpose flour before creating the batter.
- Dredge the chicken in the spicy batter, making sure it is evenly coated.
- Fry the chicken tenders until they are golden brown and crispy.
- Once they are cooked, drizzle them with a generous amount of honey for that perfect balance of spicy and sweet.
Serve these spicy honey battered chicken tenders with a cooling dip like ranch dressing or a tangy salsa to complement the heat. Get ready to spice up your chicken tender game!
Honey Mustard Glazed Chicken Tenders
For those who enjoy a tangy and savory taste, honey mustard glazed chicken tenders are the way to go. The combination of honey and mustard creates a mouthwatering glaze that will leave you wanting more. Here’s how you can make them:
- Begin by following the preparation steps for honey battered chicken tenders mentioned earlier.
- In a small bowl, mix together honey, Dijon mustard, a splash of apple cider vinegar, and a pinch of garlic powder.
- Dip each chicken tender into the honey mustard glaze, ensuring it is well coated.
- Cook the chicken tenders in the same manner as mentioned before, frying them until they are crispy and golden brown.
- Once cooked, you can brush additional honey mustard glaze on top for an extra burst of flavor.
Serve these honey mustard glazed chicken tenders with a side of fries or a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal. The combination of the tangy mustard and the sweetness of honey will have your taste buds dancing with joy.
Asian-Inspired Honey Sesame Chicken Tenders
If you’re craving a taste of the Orient, these Asian-inspired honey sesame chicken tenders are the perfect choice. The combination of honey, soy sauce, and sesame seeds creates a delightful blend of flavors. Here’s how you can make them:
- Begin by following the preparation steps for honey battered chicken tenders mentioned earlier.
- In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
- Dip each chicken tender into the Asian-inspired marinade, ensuring they are well coated.
- Cook the chicken tenders as mentioned before, frying them until they are crispy and golden brown.
- Once cooked, garnish the chicken tenders with a sprinkle of sesame seeds for an added crunch and visual appeal.
Serve these Asian-inspired honey sesame chicken tenders with steamed rice and stir-fried vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal. The combination of sweet honey, savory soy sauce, and nutty sesame seeds will transport your taste buds to the streets of Asia.
Serving Suggestions for Honey Battered Chicken Tenders
Are you ready to take your honey battered chicken tenders to the next level? Here are some mouthwatering serving suggestions that will complement the crispy and sweet flavors of this delicious dish.
Honey Mustard Dipping Sauce
No honey battered chicken tender is complete without a delectable dipping sauce. One of the most popular choices is the classic honey mustard. The combination of tangy mustard and sweet honey creates the perfect balance of flavors. You can easily make your own honey mustard by mixing together equal parts of honey and Dijon mustard. If you prefer a spicier kick, you can add a dash of cayenne pepper or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. The creamy and slightly sweet sauce pairs beautifully with the crunchy chicken tenders, adding an extra layer of indulgence.
Sweet Potato Fries
When it comes to side dishes for honey battered chicken tenders, sweet potato fries are a match made in heaven. These crispy and slightly sweet fries perfectly complement the savory flavors of the chicken. To make your own sweet potato fries, start by peeling and cutting the sweet potatoes into thin strips. Toss them with a bit of olive oil, salt, and your choice of spices, such as paprika or garlic powder. Spread them out on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for about 20-25 minutes, until golden and crispy. Serve these addictive fries alongside your chicken tenders for a delightful combination of flavors and textures.
Coleslaw
For a refreshing and crunchy side dish, coleslaw is a fantastic choice. The creamy and tangy dressing of coleslaw provides a perfect contrast to the crispy chicken tenders. To make your own coleslaw, start by shredding cabbage and carrots. In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper to create the dressing. Pour the dressing over the shredded vegetables and toss until well coated. Let the coleslaw sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. The cool and crisp coleslaw adds a refreshing element to your honey battered chicken tenders, making each bite even more enjoyable.
Honey Glazed Carrots
To add a touch of sweetness and a pop of color to your meal, honey glazed carrots are the way to go. The natural sweetness of the carrots pairs perfectly with the honey battered chicken tenders. To make honey glazed carrots, start by peeling and slicing the carrots into thin sticks. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat and add the carrots. Cook for a few minutes until they start to soften. Then, drizzle honey over the carrots and continue cooking until the carrots are tender and glazed with the honey. The caramelized sweetness of the honey glazed carrots provides a delightful contrast to the savory chicken tenders, elevating the overall dining experience.
Frequently Asked Questions about Honey Battered Chicken Tenders
Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?
Yes, you can absolutely use boneless chicken thighs instead of chicken breast in your honey battered chicken tenders. While chicken breast is a leaner option, chicken thighs have more fat and tend to be juicier and more flavorful. The dark meat of chicken thighs also provides a richer taste. When using chicken thighs, make sure to remove any excess fat and cut them into thin strips or bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking. The rest of the preparation steps remain the same.
Can I bake the chicken tenders instead of frying them?
Yes, if you prefer a healthier alternative or simply want to avoid the mess of frying, you can bake the honey battered chicken tenders instead. To bake them, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. After dredging the chicken tenders in the batter, place them on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray or brush the tops with oil to help them brown. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is crispy. Remember to flip the tenders halfway through cooking for even browning.
How long do the leftovers stay crispy?
While honey battered chicken tenders are best enjoyed fresh out of the fryer or oven, leftovers can still be delicious. To maintain their crispiness, store the leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When properly stored, the chicken tenders will stay crispy for up to 2-3 days. However, it’s important to note that the longer they are refrigerated, the texture may become slightly softer. To reheat the leftovers, place them on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crisp.
Can I make the batter in advance?
While it’s best to prepare the batter just before using it for the honey battered chicken tenders, you can make it in advance if needed. However, keep in mind that the texture of the batter may change if it sits for too long. To make the batter in advance, combine all the dry ingredients (all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper) in a bowl and mix well. In a separate bowl, whisk together the wet ingredients (eggs and honey). When you’re ready to use the batter, simply combine the wet and dry ingredients and mix until smooth. It’s important to note that the batter may thicken slightly as it sits, so you may need to adjust the consistency by adding a little bit of water or milk.
Healthier Alternatives for Honey Battered Chicken Tenders
Baked Honey Mustard Chicken Tenders
If you’re looking for a healthier alternative to the classic honey battered chicken tenders, try making baked honey mustard chicken tenders. This recipe still gives you that deliciously crispy texture without the deep-frying. Plus, the tangy and sweet flavors of honey mustard will satisfy your taste buds.
To make baked honey mustard chicken tenders, you will need the following ingredients:
- Chicken breast: Choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts and slice them into tender-sized pieces.
- Dijon mustard: This tangy mustard adds a flavorful kick to the chicken tenders.
- Honey: Use natural honey to balance out the tanginess of the mustard and add a touch of sweetness.
- Panko breadcrumbs: These Japanese breadcrumbs give the tenders a crunchy coating.
- Paprika: Adding a hint of paprika adds a smoky flavor to the tenders.
- Salt and pepper: Season the chicken tenders with salt and pepper to taste.
Now, let’s get started with the preparation steps for these baked honey mustard chicken tenders:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a shallow bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard and honey until well combined. This will be the marinade and dipping sauce for the chicken tenders.
- In another bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Dip each chicken tender into the mustard-honey mixture, making sure it is fully coated. Then, roll it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere the breadcrumbs.
- Place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each piece.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is crispy and golden brown.
- Serve the baked honey mustard chicken tenders with extra mustard-honey sauce for dipping.
Gluten-Free Honey Battered Chicken Tenders
For those with gluten sensitivities or dietary restrictions, gluten-free honey battered chicken tenders are a great alternative. This recipe swaps out traditional all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour, ensuring that everyone can enjoy these crispy and flavorful chicken tenders.
Here are the ingredients you will need:
- Chicken breast: Opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts and cut them into tender-sized pieces.
- Gluten-free flour: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend as a replacement for regular flour.
- Honey: The star ingredient that adds sweetness and enhances the flavor of the chicken tenders.
- Eggs: Whisked eggs will act as the binder for the gluten-free flour coating.
- Baking powder: Adding a small amount of baking powder helps to create a light and crispy texture.
- Salt and pepper: Season the chicken tenders to taste.
Now, let’s dive into the steps for making gluten-free honey battered chicken tenders:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a shallow bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper.
- In another bowl, whisk the eggs until well beaten.
- Dip each chicken tender into the egg mixture, ensuring it is fully coated. Then, roll it in the gluten-free flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere the coating.
- Place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each piece.
- Drizzle honey over the top of each chicken tender, adding a touch of sweetness.
- Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is crispy and golden brown.
- Serve the gluten-free honey battered chicken tenders with your favorite dipping sauce, such as honey mustard or barbecue sauce.
Air-Fried Honey Battered Chicken Tenders
If you’re looking for a healthier cooking method that still delivers crispy and delicious chicken tenders, try air-frying them. Air-fried honey battered chicken tenders are a guilt-free option that reduces the amount of oil used while maintaining the desired texture and flavor.
Here are the ingredients you will need:
- Chicken breast: Choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts and cut them into tender-sized pieces.
- All-purpose flour: This will be used to coat the chicken tenders.
- Honey: Adds sweetness and enhances the flavor of the chicken.
- Eggs: Whisked eggs will act as the binder for the flour coating.
- Baking powder: Adding a small amount of baking powder helps to create a light and crispy texture.
- Salt and pepper: Season the chicken tenders to taste.
Now, let’s walk through the steps for making air-fried honey battered chicken tenders:
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for a few minutes.
- In a shallow bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper.
- In another bowl, whisk the eggs until well beaten.
- Dip each chicken tender into the egg mixture, making sure it is fully coated. Then, roll it in the flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere the coating.
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Place the coated chicken tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space between each piece.
- Drizzle honey over the top of each chicken tender, adding a touch of sweetness.
- Air fry the chicken tenders at 400°F (200°C) for about 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they are cooked through and the coating is crispy and golden brown.
- Serve the air-fried honey battered chicken tenders with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch dressing or sweet and sour sauce.
In conclusion, these healthier alternatives to honey battered chicken tenders offer a variety of options for those looking to enjoy this classic dish with a twist. Whether you prefer the tanginess of honey mustard, need a gluten-free option, or want to reduce the oil content by air-frying, these recipes provide delicious alternatives that are sure to satisfy your cravings. So, go ahead and give these recipes a try for a healthier and equally tasty version of honey battered chicken tenders.
