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Crispy Chicken Tenders with Spicy Honey Dip

A pile of golden brown Crispy Chicken Tenders served on a white plate next to a small bowl of spicy honey dip.
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Follow these steps to make extra crispy chicken tenders using a buttermilk soak, served with a simple homemade spicy honey dipping sauce.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch wide strips
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Vegetable oil, for frying (about 2 inches deep in pan)
  • 1/2 cup honey
  • 2 tablespoons hot sauce (adjust to your spice preference)
  • 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar

Instructions

  1. Place the chicken strips in a bowl and cover them with buttermilk, salt, and pepper. Let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours.
  2. In a shallow dish, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, paprika, and garlic powder.
  3. Remove the chicken from the buttermilk, letting excess drip off, but do not rinse.
  4. Dredge each strip thoroughly in the flour mixture, pressing the coating onto the chicken to help it adhere. Place coated tenders on a wire rack while you prepare the oil.
  5. Heat the vegetable oil in a deep, heavy-bottomed skillet to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to monitor the temperature.
  6. Carefully place 4 to 5 tenders into the hot oil, ensuring you do not overcrowd the pan. Fry for 3 to 4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F or 74°C).
  7. Remove the cooked tenders and place them on a clean wire rack set over a baking sheet to drain excess oil. Repeat with the remaining chicken.
  8. While the chicken rests, prepare the dip: In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, hot sauce, and apple cider vinegar until fully combined.
  9. Serve the hot, crispy chicken tenders immediately with the spicy honey dip.

Notes

  • For extra crispiness when baking, spray the coated tenders lightly with cooking spray before placing them on a wire rack set over a baking sheet. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 18 to 22 minutes, flipping halfway through.
  • You can make the spicy honey dip up to one week ahead and store it covered in the refrigerator.
  • If you prefer air frying, cook at 390°F (199°C) for 10 to 12 minutes, flipping halfway.

Nutrition

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