Nashville Hot Honey Chicken Tenders

If you love crispy, juicy chicken with a fiery kick balanced by a touch of sweetness, then Nashville Hot Honey Chicken Tenders are your new best friend. This recipe takes classic fried chicken tenders and elevates them with a spicy honey glaze that’s addictive and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re craving a satisfying weeknight dinner or want to impress guests with a bold appetizer, these tenders deliver big on flavor and texture.

Why It’s My Go-To

Nashville Hot Honey Chicken Tenders have become my go-to comfort food because they strike the perfect balance between heat and sweetness. The crunch from the seasoned flour coating contrasts beautifully with the tender, juicy chicken inside. Then, the hot honey sauce adds a layer of complexity with just the right amount of spice and a sticky, luscious finish. Plus, it’s a recipe that’s straightforward, quick to prepare, and perfect for dipping or pairing with your favorite sides.

What’s more, these tenders are incredibly versatile. You can serve them as a main dish, stack them in a sandwich (like the Zucchini Relish Fried Chicken Sandwich), or even enjoy them alongside a fresh salad. The recipe’s simplicity means you can easily adjust the heat level to suit your taste.

The Essentials

• 1 pound chicken tenders: Fresh, high-quality chicken tenders are key for juicy bites.
• 1 cup buttermilk: This tenderizes the chicken while adding a subtle tang.
• 1 cup all-purpose flour: Forms the crispy coating.
• 1 teaspoon paprika: Adds smoky warmth to the flour coating.
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper: Brings heat to the chicken crust.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder & 1 teaspoon onion powder: For savory depth.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasoning throughout.
• Vegetable oil: For frying – choose a neutral oil with a high smoke point.
• 1/2 cup honey: The sweet base for the glaze that complements the spice.
• 2 tablespoons hot sauce: Adds tangy heat to the honey glaze.
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar: Balances sweetness with acidity.
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (for sauce): Kick up the heat in the glaze.
• Chopped parsley: For a fresh, vibrant garnish.

Prep & Cook Tools

• Large mixing bowls: For marinating chicken and mixing flour coating.
• Deep skillet or heavy-bottomed pan: For frying the chicken evenly.
• Wire rack: To drain excess oil and keep tenders crispy.
• Tongs: Helpful for turning chicken tenders safely in hot oil.
• Measuring cups and spoons: For precise ingredient amounts.
• Small saucepan: To gently heat and combine the hot honey glaze ingredients.

Nashville Hot Honey Chicken Tenders: Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Pour the buttermilk into a large bowl. Add a pinch of salt and pepper, then submerge the chicken tenders. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours. This step tenderizes the chicken and helps the coating stick better.

Step 2: Prepare the Flour Coating

In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. This spice blend will create that signature crispy, flavorful crust.

Step 3: Heat the Oil

Pour vegetable oil into a deep skillet to about 1 to 1.5 inches deep. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). A kitchen thermometer is useful for accuracy, but you can also test by dropping a pinch of flour into the oil—if it sizzles immediately, it’s ready.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken

Remove chicken tenders from the buttermilk, letting the excess drip off. Dredge each tender in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing lightly to adhere. Shake off any excess flour.

Step 5: Fry the Tenders

Carefully add a few tenders to the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C). Transfer cooked tenders to a wire rack to drain.

Step 6: Make the Hot Honey Sauce

While the chicken is frying, combine the honey, hot sauce, apple cider vinegar, and cayenne pepper in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir until warm and well combined. Remove from heat once the mixture is smooth and slightly thickened.

Step 7: Toss & Garnish

Place the fried chicken tenders in a large bowl and drizzle the hot honey sauce over them. Toss gently until all tenders are coated in the spicy-sweet glaze. Sprinkle with chopped parsley for a fresh pop of color and flavor.

Dairy-Free/Gluten-Free Swaps

• Replace buttermilk with a mixture of unsweetened almond milk and a tablespoon of lemon juice or apple cider vinegar (let sit for 5 minutes).
• Use gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of regular flour for the coating.
• Ensure hot sauce and other condiments are gluten-free by checking labels.
• Use coconut oil or avocado oil for frying if preferred over vegetable oil.

If You’re Curious

The magic of Nashville Hot Honey Chicken Tenders lies in the balance between spicy heat and sweet glaze. This dish is inspired by the iconic Nashville hot chicken but adds a luscious honey twist that mellows the heat without sacrificing flavor. The honey glaze also helps keep each tender beautifully moist and sticky, making every bite irresistible.

• Want to try a different dipping sauce? Ranch or blue cheese dressings are classic pairings.
• For a twist, swap out the chicken for turkey tenders or even cauliflower florets for a vegetarian option.
• Try pairing these tenders with Hot Honey Tomato Ricotta Toasts for a tasty appetizer spread.

Leftovers & Meal Prep

Nashville Hot Honey Chicken Tenders are fantastic for meal prep because they reheat well and maintain their flavor. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the tenders on a wire rack in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes to keep them crispy.

You can also use leftover tenders to make quick sandwiches or wraps. Layer with lettuce, pickles, and a drizzle of extra hot honey sauce for a satisfying lunch. If you’re looking for more chicken tender recipes to mix up your meal prep routine, check out this easy Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders recipe for a flavorful alternative.

Your Questions, Answered

Can I bake these chicken tenders instead of frying?

Absolutely! To bake, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the coated tenders on a greased baking sheet and spray lightly with oil. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and cooked through.

How spicy are the tenders? Can I adjust the heat?

The recipe has a moderate level of heat that can easily be adjusted. Reduce or omit cayenne pepper in the flour and hot honey sauce for milder tenders. Alternatively, add extra cayenne or hot sauce if you love a fiery kick.

What’s the best way to store the hot honey sauce?

Store any leftover hot honey sauce in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Reheat gently before using to restore its pourable consistency.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?

Yes, you can slice chicken breasts into strips to mimic tenders. Just be mindful of cooking time, as thicker pieces may need a bit longer to cook through without drying out.

More from the Kitchen

• Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders – Another flavorful and easy chicken tender recipe.
• Zucchini Relish Fried Chicken Sandwich – A fun twist on fried chicken sandwiches with fresh relish.
• Hot Honey Tomato Ricotta Toasts – Perfect for snacking or serving alongside your tenders.

Save & Share

If you give these Nashville Hot Honey Chicken Tenders a try, don’t forget to save this recipe and share it with your friends and family. They’re perfect for game day, casual dinners, or anytime you want to enjoy a bit of sweet heat. Tag your photos and let me know how you spice up your chicken tenders!

Nashville Hot Honey Chicken Tenders are a dish that brings bold flavors, crispy textures, and a perfect balance of sweet and spicy. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can make this crowd-pleaser at home any day of the week. Enjoy every bite!

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