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–+ servings
Merry

Baked Hot Honey Chicken Tenders

This crispy hot honey chicken is the perfect combination of sweet, spicy, and crunchy. Juicy chicken is coated in a golden, crispy crust and drizzled with a sticky hot honey sauce that delivers just the right amount of heat. Whether served over rice, in a sandwich, or alongside classic Southern sides, this dish is an irresistible crowd-pleaser.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken:
  • 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs (about 1.5 lbs)
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika optional
  • 2 large eggs beaten
  • 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch
For the Hot Honey Sauce:
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 2 tablespoons hot sauce adjust to your preferred heat level
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional, for extra heat
  • 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice optional, for tang
For Garnish (Optional):
  • Fresh chopped parsley
  • Sesame seeds or crushed peanuts for added crunch

Method
 

  1. Prepare the chicken by seasoning the flour with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika.
  2. Set up a breading station with three bowls: one for the seasoned flour, one for the beaten eggs, and one for the panko breadcrumbs.
  3. Coat each piece of chicken in the flour, then dip into the eggs, and finally press into the panko breadcrumbs until well coated.
Cook the chicken using your preferred method:
  1. Frying: Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat and fry for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown.
  2. Baking: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
  3. Air Frying: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping once.
  4. While the chicken cooks, prepare the hot honey sauce by melting butter in a saucepan over low heat. Stir in honey, hot sauce, red pepper flakes, and apple cider vinegar or lemon juice. Simmer for 1-2 minutes.
  5. Drizzle or brush the hot honey sauce over the crispy chicken. Garnish with parsley, sesame seeds, or crushed peanuts if desired.
  6. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

    • Adjust the spice level by adding more or less hot sauce and red pepper flakes.
    • Use bone-in chicken for a different texture—just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
    • Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best results.
    • For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs.

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