Honey BBQ Chicken Tenders: The Ultimate Guide to Making Them

Honey BBQ Chicken Tenders: Get ready to experience a flavor explosion that will redefine your definition of “delicious”! Forget everything you thought you knew about chicken tenders because this recipe takes the classic comfort food to a whole new level. Imagine juicy, perfectly cooked chicken, coated in a sticky, sweet, and smoky honey BBQ sauce that will have you licking your fingers clean.

Barbecue, in its various forms, has been a cornerstone of American cuisine for centuries, evolving from simple open-fire cooking techniques to the sophisticated and diverse styles we enjoy today. The addition of honey brings a touch of sweetness that balances the smoky and tangy flavors of the BBQ sauce, creating a truly irresistible combination. This particular twist on chicken tenders offers a delightful alternative to traditional fried versions, making it a crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults alike.

What makes these Honey BBQ Chicken Tenders so universally loved? It’s the perfect marriage of flavors and textures. The chicken is tender and moist, while the honey BBQ sauce provides a delightful sticky glaze. They are incredibly easy to make, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a fun appetizer for game day, or even a sophisticated addition to your next backyard barbecue. The sweet and savory combination is simply irresistible, making these tenders a guaranteed hit every time. I promise you, once you try this recipe, you’ll never look at chicken tenders the same way again!

Ingredients:

• For the Chicken:
• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch strips
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
• For the Honey BBQ Sauce:
• 1 cup your favorite BBQ sauce (I prefer a smoky one!)
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
• For Frying:
• Vegetable oil, for frying (about 4-6 cups)
• Optional Garnishes:
• Chopped green onions
• Sesame seeds
• Extra honey, for drizzling

Preparing the Chicken:

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, egg, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken strips to the buttermilk mixture, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours. The longer the chicken marinates, the more tender and flavorful it will be!
2. Prepare the Breading: While the chicken is marinating, prepare the breading station. In a shallow dish, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Make sure everything is well combined.
3. Bread the Chicken: Remove the chicken strips from the buttermilk marinade, letting any excess drip off. Dredge each chicken strip in the flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure it is fully coated. Shake off any excess flour. Place the breaded chicken strips on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This will prevent them from sticking.

Making the Honey BBQ Sauce:

1. Combine the Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine the BBQ sauce, honey, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (if using).
2. Simmer the Sauce: Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the sauce to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly and the flavors have melded together. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. If you prefer a sweeter sauce, add a little more honey. If you want more tang, add a touch more apple cider vinegar.
3. Set Aside: Once the sauce is ready, remove it from the heat and set it aside. Keep it warm until the chicken is cooked.

Frying the Chicken:

1. Heat the Oil: Pour vegetable oil into a large, heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer. Heat the oil over medium-high heat to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to monitor the oil temperature. Maintaining the correct temperature is crucial for crispy, evenly cooked chicken. If the oil is too hot, the chicken will burn on the outside before it’s cooked through. If the oil is too cold, the chicken will absorb too much oil and become greasy.
2. Fry the Chicken: Carefully add the breaded chicken strips to the hot oil in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pot. Overcrowding the pot will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy chicken. Fry the chicken for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
3. Drain the Chicken: Remove the fried chicken strips from the oil using a slotted spoon or tongs and place them on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. This will help keep the chicken crispy.

Coating the Chicken in Honey BBQ Sauce:

1. Toss with Sauce: In a large bowl, toss the fried chicken strips with the warm honey BBQ sauce until they are evenly coated. Make sure every piece of chicken is glistening with that delicious sauce!

Serving:

1. Garnish (Optional): Transfer the honey BBQ chicken tenders to a serving platter. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds, if desired. You can also drizzle a little extra honey over the top for added sweetness.
2. Serve Immediately: Serve the honey BBQ chicken tenders immediately while they are still hot and crispy. They are best enjoyed fresh!

Tips for the Best Honey BBQ Chicken Tenders:

• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When frying, make sure not to overcrowd the pan. This will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy chicken. Fry in batches for best results.
• Use a Thermometer: Use a thermometer to ensure the oil is at the correct temperature (350°F/175°C) and that the chicken is cooked through (165°F/74°C).
• Keep the Sauce Warm: Keep the honey BBQ sauce warm while you are frying the chicken. This will make it easier to coat the chicken evenly.
• Double Dip for Extra Crispy Chicken: For extra crispy chicken, you can double dip the chicken in the flour mixture. After the first coating, dip the chicken back into the buttermilk mixture and then back into the flour mixture.
• Bake Instead of Fry: If you prefer a healthier option, you can bake the chicken instead of frying it. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the breaded chicken strips on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.

Variations:

• Spicy Honey BBQ Chicken Tenders: Add more cayenne pepper to the breading and the sauce for a spicier kick. You can also add a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.
• Honey Garlic BBQ Chicken Tenders: Add minced garlic to the honey BBQ sauce for a delicious honey garlic flavor.
• Honey Mustard BBQ Chicken Tenders: Substitute some of the BBQ sauce with honey mustard for a tangy twist.
• Honey Sriracha BBQ Chicken Tenders: Add a tablespoon of sriracha to the honey BBQ sauce for a sweet and spicy flavor.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve with your favorite dipping sauces, such as ranch dressing, blue cheese dressing, or honey mustard.
• Serve with a side of coleslaw, potato salad, or macaroni and cheese.
• Serve on slider buns for mini honey BBQ chicken sandwiches.
• Serve over a bed of rice or quinoa.
• Serve as an appetizer at your next party or gathering.

Storage Instructions:

• Store leftover honey BBQ chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat them in the microwave, but they may not be as crispy.

Conclusion:

So, there you have it! These Honey BBQ Chicken Tenders are truly a game-changer. From the sticky, sweet, and smoky glaze to the perfectly cooked, juicy chicken, every bite is an explosion of flavor. I genuinely believe this recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves a good BBQ, and especially for those looking for a quick, easy, and crowd-pleasing meal. It’s the kind of dish that disappears in minutes, leaving everyone wanting more.

But why is this recipe so special? It’s the perfect balance of flavors. The honey adds a touch of sweetness that complements the smoky BBQ sauce beautifully. The chicken tenders cook quickly and evenly, ensuring they’re tender and juicy every time. And the best part? It’s incredibly versatile! You can easily adapt this recipe to your liking.

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

These Honey BBQ Chicken Tenders are fantastic on their own as an appetizer, but they also shine as part of a larger meal. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Classic Sides: Serve them with classic BBQ sides like coleslaw, potato salad, corn on the cob, and baked beans.
• Sandwiches and Wraps: Slice the tenders and use them as a filling for sandwiches or wraps. Add some lettuce, tomato, and a drizzle of ranch dressing for a complete meal.
• Salads: Top a fresh salad with these tenders for a protein-packed and flavorful lunch or dinner. A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing works perfectly.
• Pizza Topping: Get creative and use these tenders as a topping for homemade pizza. Combine them with red onions, cilantro, and a drizzle of BBQ sauce for a unique and delicious pizza.
• Rice Bowls: Create a flavorful rice bowl by pairing the tenders with rice, steamed vegetables, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.

And don’t be afraid to experiment with variations! Here are a few ideas to spark your creativity:

• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the BBQ sauce for a spicy kick.
• Garlic Lover’s Delight: Add some minced garlic to the marinade for an extra layer of flavor.
• Herb Infusion: Mix in some fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the marinade for a more complex flavor profile.
• Different Cuts of Chicken: While this recipe calls for chicken tenders, you can also use chicken breasts cut into strips or even chicken wings. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
• Air Fryer Option: For an even quicker and healthier option, try cooking the tenders in an air fryer. They’ll come out crispy and delicious!

I truly believe that once you try this recipe for Honey BBQ Chicken Tenders, it will become a staple in your kitchen. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, weekend gatherings, or any time you’re craving a delicious and satisfying meal. The possibilities are endless, and I encourage you to get creative and make it your own.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, fire up the grill (or oven!), and get ready to experience the magic of these Honey BBQ Chicken Tenders. I’m confident you’ll love them as much as I do. And most importantly, I’d love to hear about your experience! Please, try this recipe and share your photos, tips, and variations in the comments below. Let’s create a community of Honey BBQ Chicken Tender enthusiasts! Happy cooking!