Hot Honey Chicken Tenders

There’s something about the perfect crunch of hot honey chicken tenders that keeps me coming back for more. This easy chicken tenders recipe is a favorite in my kitchen; crispy, golden tenders coated in crunchy cornflakes and baked or air-fried to perfection.

And the best part? A generous drizzle of sweet and spicy hot honey that takes these honey chicken tenders to the next level. They’re simple to make, packed with flavor, and absolutely addictive. Whether you’re serving them for dinner or as a snack, you won’t be able to stop at just one! Trust me, you’ll be licking your fingers after every bite!

Reasons why you’ll love this recipe♡

Crispy, Crunchy Coating – The crushed cornflakes create a light, crispy texture that makes every bite satisfying without the need for deep frying.

Perfect Balance of Sweet & Spicy – The hot honey drizzle adds a delicious contrast to the savory, seasoned chicken tenders.

Healthier Alternative – Baked or air-fried, these chicken tenders are a lighter option while still being packed with flavor and crunch.

Ingredients you’ll need for this recipe

Servings: 4

Step by Step Guide

Preheat the oven or air fryer

1. Oven: Set to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Air Fryer: Preheat to 375°F (190°C) and lightly coat the basket with cooking spray.

Chicken

2. In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and onion powder.

3. Spread the crushed cornflakes in a separate shallow dish.

4. Dip each chicken tender into the egg mixture, making sure it’s evenly coated.

5. Roll the chicken in the crushed cornflakes, pressing firmly to ensure the coating sticks.

6. Arrange the coated tenders on the lined baking sheet or in the air fryer basket.

Cook until crispy

7. Oven: Bake for 18-22 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Air Fryer: Cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway, until crispy and fully cooked.

8. Drizzle hot honey over the crispy tenders or serve it as a dipping sauce on the side.

Recipe FAQ

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
A: Yes! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well and will be slightly juicier than chicken breasts. Just cut them into similar-sized strips for even cooking.

Q: How do I make the coating extra crispy?
A: Make sure to press the crushed cornflakes firmly onto the chicken so they adhere well. Spraying the coated tenders lightly with oil before baking or air frying also helps achieve a crunchier texture.

Q: Can I bake these instead of air frying?
A: Yes! The recipe includes both oven and air fryer instructions. Baking at 400°F (200°C) for about 18-22 minutes will give great results.

Q: What can I use instead of cornflakes?
A: You can substitute panko breadcrumbs, crushed crackers, or even finely crushed pretzels for a similar crunchy texture.

Q: How do I prevent the coating from falling off?
A: Ensure the chicken is well-coated in the egg mixture before pressing it into the cornflakes. Let the coated chicken sit for a few minutes before baking or air frying to help the coating stick.

Q: Can I make these chicken tenders ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can coat the chicken and store it in the fridge for up to 6 hours before cooking. Cooked tenders can also be reheated in the oven or air fryer to restore crispiness.

Q: Can I freeze these chicken tenders?
A: Absolutely! Freeze uncooked coated tenders on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Cook them straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Q: What dipping sauces go well with these tenders?
A: Besides hot honey, you can serve them with ranch, honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or a spicy aioli.

Q: How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
A: Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 165°F (75°C). The outside should also be golden and crispy.

Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A: Yes! Just use gluten-free cornflakes and ensure any seasonings or store-bought sauces are gluten-free.

Q: What sides go well with these chicken tenders?
A: Serve them with coleslaw, sweet potato fries, a fresh salad, or mac and cheese for a delicious meal.

Q: Can I use a different seasoning blend?
A: Of course! You can customize the spices to your taste; try adding cayenne for heat, Italian seasoning for extra flavor, or even a bit of grated Parmesan to the coating.