Can I use frozen chicken tenders?

Yes, just make sure to fully thaw them before marinating.

How do I make the tenders less spicy?

Simply omit the paprika or use a sweet paprika instead of regular.

Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?

Try substituting buttermilk with a mix of almond milk and a tablespoon of lemon juice.

Can I use an air fryer?

Yes, air fry at 400°F (200°C) for about 10 minutes, flipping halfway.

Crispy Honey BBQ Fried Chicken Tenders Recipe

There’s nothing quite as satisfying as biting into perfectly crispy fried chicken tenders. Our recipe for Honey BBQ Fried Chicken Tenders combines the classic comfort of fried chicken with the sweet and tangy flavors of a honey BBQ glaze. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, preparing a family meal, or just craving something delightfully indulgent, these tenders are bound to be a hit! Let’s dive into how you can whip up this delicious dish in your kitchen.

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

Ingredients

Ingredients list:

1 lb chicken tenders
1 cup buttermilk
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1 cup BBQ sauce
1/4 cup honey
Oil for frying

Equipments

Here are the essential kitchen tools you’ll need:

Mixing bowls
Frying pan or deep fryer
Tongs
Whisk
Sauce pan

How to Make Crispy Honey BBQ Fried Chicken Tenders – Step By Step

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Begin by placing your chicken tenders in a mixing bowl. Pour the buttermilk over them, ensuring they’re fully submerged. Let them marinate for at least two hours in the refrigerator. This step is essential as it tenderizes the chicken, infusing it with moisture and flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Dry Batter

In another bowl, mix together the flour, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and baking powder. Whisk these ingredients well to combine. This dry mixture will form the crispy crust of your chicken tenders that holds that delicious glaze perfectly.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the buttermilk marinade and allow the excess to drip off. Dredge each tender in the flour mixture, pressing firmly to ensure a good coating. Set aside on a rack or plate while you prepare the oil for frying.

Step 4: Fry the Tenders

Heat the oil in your frying pan or deep fryer to around 350°F (175°C). Carefully lower the coated tenders into the oil, cooking them in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding. Fry until golden brown and crispy, about 5-7 minutes, then drain on paper towels.

Step 5: Make the Honey BBQ Glaze

While the tenders are frying, combine the BBQ sauce and honey in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until well combined and heated through. This sauce will become your sticky, flavorful glaze.

Step 6: Toss and Serve

Once all tenders are fried and drained, place them in a large bowl. Pour the hot honey BBQ glaze over the chicken and gently toss to coat evenly. Serve hot, and enjoy your delicious creation!

How to Serve Crispy Honey BBQ Fried Chicken Tenders

These tenders are best served straight out of the pan, ensuring they remain crispy despite the glaze. Pair them with a side of coleslaw, fries, or a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal. For an extra twist, sprinkle chopped green onions or sesame seeds over the tenders before serving.

Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions

For an ultra-crispy crust, double-dip the chicken in the buttermilk and flour mixture. If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dry batter. For a different flavor profile, try using sticky sesame or teriyaki glaze instead of BBQ sauce.

Pumped Up Protein: Power Packed Tendies

If you’re looking to enhance the protein intake, swap out equal parts of flour for protein powder in your dry batter. This subtle adjustment amps up your intake while keeping that irresistible crunch, perfect for post-workout meals.

Low Carb Love: Keto-Style Fried Chicken Tenders

Substitute the flour with almond or coconut flour for a delicious low-carb alternative. Stick with a sugar-free BBQ and honey substitute to maintain that sweet glaze without the added carbs, a great choice for those following a keto lifestyle.

Storage Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place tenders in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes or until hot and crispy again. Alternatively, you can freeze the tenders (coated but not glazed) for up to 2 months.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken tenders? Yes, just make sure to fully thaw them before marinating.
How do I make the tenders less spicy? Simply omit the paprika or use a sweet paprika instead of regular.
Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free? Try substituting buttermilk with a mix of almond milk and a tablespoon of lemon juice.
Can I use an air fryer? Yes, air fry at 400°F (200°C) for about 10 minutes, flipping halfway.

A Delicious Finale: Share the Love

Now that you’ve mastered the art of making crispy Honey BBQ Fried Chicken Tenders at home, it’s time to share your newfound culinary prowess! Snap a photo and share it with your friends, or leave a comment about how your version turned out. We’d love to hear your thoughts or any unique twists you gave to this scrumptious recipe.