Crispy Honey BBQ Chicken Tenders: Sweet, Smoky, and Irresistible!

Introduction:

Nothing beats the perfect combination of crispy, juicy chicken tenders coated in a sweet and smoky honey BBQ glaze. These homemade honey BBQ chicken tenders bring together crunchy, golden-brown breading with a sticky, flavorful sauce that makes them irresistible. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, a main dish, or a game-day snack, this recipe is sure to be a hit with family and friends!

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Recipe Details:

Ingredients List:

For the Chicken Tenders:

• 1 lb chicken tenders (or sliced chicken breasts)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 eggs
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (for extra crispiness)
• 1 cup regular breadcrumbs
• 1 cup buttermilk (or milk with 1 teaspoon lemon juice)
• 1 cup vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Honey BBQ Sauce:

• ½ cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
• ¼ cup honey
• 1 tablespoon butter (for richness)
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for heat)

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Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. In a large bowl, mix buttermilk with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Add the chicken tenders and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for best flavor).

Step 2: Set Up Breading Station

2. In a shallow dish, mix flour, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika.
3. In another bowl, beat the eggs.
4. In a third dish, mix panko and regular breadcrumbs.

Step 3: Bread the Chicken

5. Remove each tender from the buttermilk, letting excess drip off. Dredge in flour, then dip into the beaten eggs, and finally coat with the breadcrumb mixture. Press the breadcrumbs in to ensure a crispy texture.

Step 4: Fry the Chicken

6. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat (350°F/175°C). Fry the tenders in batches for about 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Drain on a paper towel-lined plate.

Alternative: For a healthier option, bake the tenders at 400°F (200°C) for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway, or air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes.

Step 5: Make the Honey BBQ Sauce

7. In a small saucepan over low heat, mix BBQ sauce, honey, butter, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, garlic powder, and chili flakes. Stir until smooth and heated through.

Step 6: Toss & Serve

8. Coat the crispy chicken tenders in the warm honey BBQ sauce, ensuring each piece is evenly glazed.
9. Serve immediately with ranch or blue cheese dressing, and enjoy!

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Unique Tips, Variations, and Insights:

• Customization Tips: Want extra spice? Add cayenne pepper to the breading mix. Prefer a tangier sauce? Add 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar to the honey BBQ sauce.
• Expert Advice: Double-coating the tenders in the flour and egg mixture ensures a crunchier crust.
• Cultural Context: Inspired by Southern-style fried chicken and classic American BBQ flavors, this dish brings the best of both worlds into one bite.

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Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fat: 12g
• Sodium: 550mg

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FAQ Section:

1. Can I make these ahead of time?
   Yes! Fry or bake the tenders, then reheat them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes before tossing them in the sauce.
2. Can I use a different meat?
   Absolutely! Try the same recipe with shrimp, tofu, or even cauliflower for a vegetarian twist.
3. What BBQ sauce works best?
   A smoky or hickory-flavored BBQ sauce pairs best, but any favorite BBQ sauce will work.
4. How do I store leftovers?
   Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in an air fryer or oven to keep them crispy.

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Conclusion:

Crispy honey BBQ chicken tenders are the perfect balance of crunchy, sweet, and smoky flavors. Whether for a family dinner, party appetizer, or weekend treat, this recipe is a must-try! Give it a shot and let us know how yours turn out!