Craving that perfect combo of crispy, golden chicken with a sticky-sweet glaze? These Honey Chicken Tenders deliver all that and more. They’re crunchy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and drizzled with warm honey for a finger-licking finish. Whether you’re cooking for kids, serving a crowd, or just treating yourself to something indulgent, this recipe is a total winner.
These honey-drenched tenders are simple to prepare, fun to eat, and hit that sweet-and-savory flavor note that keeps everyone coming back for seconds.
Why You’ll Love These Honey Chicken Tenders
- Kid- and adult-approved – A universal favorite with just enough flair to impress guests or picky eaters.
- Easy to make at home – No deep fryer or complicated ingredients required.
- Crispy + sweet + savory – The flavor balance is spot-on.
- Customizable – Make them spicy, savory, or even gluten-free with easy swaps.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 lb chicken tenders
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- ¼ cup honey
- 1 tbsp soy sauce (optional, for a savory twist)
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Kitchen Tools & Equipment
- 3 shallow bowls (for dredging)
- Large skillet or frying pan
- Tongs
- Slotted spoon or spider strainer
- Paper towels
- Meat thermometer (optional, for checking doneness)
- Saucepan (for honey glaze)
- Knife and cutting board
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Breading Station
Set up three shallow bowls:
- Bowl 1: Mix flour with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Bowl 2: Beat the eggs until smooth.
- Bowl 3: Pour in the panko breadcrumbs.
2. Bread the Chicken Tenders
Working one piece at a time:
- Dredge chicken in the seasoned flour and shake off excess.
- Dip into the beaten eggs.
- Coat evenly in panko, pressing gently so the crumbs stick well.
Place the breaded tenders on a plate or tray and continue with the rest.
3. Fry the Chicken Tenders
Heat a generous layer of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot (about 350°F / 175°C), add the chicken tenders in batches. Don’t overcrowd the pan.
Fry for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
Transfer cooked tenders to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
4. Make the Honey Glaze
In a small saucepan over low heat, warm the honey gently. For added umami, stir in 1 tablespoon of soy sauce. Mix until fully combined and warm throughout—do not boil.
5. Serve & Enjoy
Drizzle the warm honey mixture generously over the crispy chicken tenders. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of color and freshness.
Tips & Variations
✅ Pro Tips:
- Double dredge for extra crispiness – Dip the tenders in egg and panko twice for a thicker coating.
- Use tongs to handle raw chicken and keep your hands clean.
- Maintain oil temperature – Let the oil come back to temp between batches to keep tenders from getting greasy.
🔁 Variations:
- Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper to the flour mixture or a splash of hot sauce to the honey glaze.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour and panko.
- Baked Option: Spray breaded tenders with oil and bake at 425°F (220°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Air Fryer Method: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 12–15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
🧊 Storage:
Let the tenders cool completely. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
🔥 Reheating:
- Oven: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes until hot and crispy.
- Air Fryer: Reheat at 375°F for 5–7 minutes.
- Avoid microwaving if you want to maintain the crunch.
Perfect Pairings
These honey chicken tenders go great with:
🍟 Sides:
- French fries or sweet potato fries
- Mac & cheese
- Coleslaw
- Roasted veggies or a simple green salad
🥤 Dipping Sauces:
- Spicy mayo
- Ranch
- Honey mustard
- Barbecue sauce
🍹 Drinks:
- Lemonade or iced tea for a classic combo
- Light lager or wheat beer if serving adults
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Bread the chicken ahead and refrigerate (uncooked) for up to 6 hours. Fry just before serving for best texture.
Is it okay to use chicken breasts instead of tenders?
Absolutely. Just slice the breasts into strips and follow the same steps.
What oil is best for frying?
Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point like vegetable, canola, or peanut oil.
Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of panko?
Yes, but panko will give you a crispier texture. If using regular breadcrumbs, consider mixing in some crushed cornflakes for crunch.
Final Thoughts
These Crispy Honey Chicken Tenders are a guaranteed hit. They’re golden, crunchy, sweet, and satisfying—everything you want in a comfort food recipe. Whether you’re cooking for a party or a weeknight dinner, they’re easy to make and even easier to love.
If you tried this recipe, don’t forget to share it with your friends and subscribe to the blog for more easy, delicious recipes the whole family will enjoy. Let’s keep cooking something great together! 🍯🍗💛