How to Make Hot Honey Chicken Tenders

Want to know how to make hot honey chicken tenders that are golden, crispy, and dripping in sweet, spicy goodness? You’re in the right place. These bold, flavor-packed bites come together with pantry staples, real honey, and a little kick—and they’ve become a go-to in my kitchen for good reason.

I’m Brooklyn Taylor, and I help busy people—just like you—make simple, high-protein meals that taste like comfort food without the guilt. After years of experimenting in my Austin kitchen, I’ve learned one thing: really good chicken makes people happy. And these hot honey tenders? They’re my family’s weeknight obsession.

My blog is all about making wholesome, flavorful meals easy and fun—even when life’s hectic. Whether you’re recreating the viral Hello Fresh Hot Honey Chicken, building the perfect Hot Honey Chicken Sandwich, or just craving crispy tenders with a kick, this guide has everything you need.

Why Learn How to Make Hot Honey Chicken Tenders at Home

What Makes Hot Honey Chicken Unique?

Hot honey chicken isn’t just fried chicken—it’s a flavor experience. With the sweet warmth of honey and the bold kick of chili, these tenders bring serious attitude to your dinner plate. Whether you’re recreating takeout-style meals or just need a protein-packed comfort dish, hot honey chicken delivers the perfect combo of crispy, juicy, and sticky-sweet heat.

It’s no wonder this trend exploded on TikTok and made it onto menus from Wingstop to Hello Fresh. What makes it stand out? The contrast: golden crunch, tender meat, and a luscious glaze that clings to every bite.

Exploring Flavor Profiles: Sweet, Spicy, and Crispy

The real magic of hot honey chicken tenders is how they hit all the notes:

Each bite delivers contrast—the sweetness pulls you in, the heat hits next, and the crunch keeps you coming back.

This harmony is what makes learning how to make hot honey chicken tenders at home so rewarding. You get full control over the heat level, the crunch factor, and that perfect sticky glaze.

Key Ingredients and Tools to Make Hot Honey Chicken Tenders

Crispy Hot Honey Chicken Tenders

Course: deep frying

Cuisine: American

Keyword: Chicken tenders, greek yogurt, lemon juice, plain flour, baking

Prep Time: 30 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes minutes

Servings: 4

Calories: 455kcal

Author: Brooklyn

Ultra juicy, ultra crispy fried chicken tenders are easier to make than you’d think and use cupboard staples. Toss with sticky hot honey sauce, for a serious crowd-pleasing winner for entertaining, game day or a fakeaway night in.

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Ingredients

For the chicken tenders

• 1 cup Greek yogurt
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 2 teaspoons paprika
• 2 teaspoons ground turmeric
• 2 garlic cloves, crushed
• 2 teaspoons dried thyme
• 1lb/500g chicken tenders
• 1 cup plain flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• Vegetable oil, for frying

For the hot honey sauce

• 1/2 cup honey
• 2 teaspoons chilli flakes
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice

Instructions

• Marinate the chicken. Add 1 cup of yogurt, 1 teaspoon of paprika, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, 1 teaspoon of ground turmeric, 1 teaspoon of salt and the crushed garlic to a mixing bowl, then mix to combine. Add the chicken tenders and mix through the marinade, making sure every piece is well coated. Set aside while you prepare the coating (you can marinate it for up to 24 hours in the fridge).
• Prepare the coating. While the chicken marinates, combine 1 cup of flour with 1 teaspoon each of salt, paprika, turmeric, dried thyme and baking powder in a large mixing bowl.
• Dredge the chicken. Prepare a plate or tray to place the dredged chicken on. Dunk each chicken tender into the flour mixture, using your hands to completely coat the pieces. You can kind of scrunch the flour into the chicken – this will create those lovely craggy bits that help create the lovely crunchy coating.
• Heat the oil. Pour enough oil into a large, heavy-bottomed pot to come roughly halfway up the sides. Turn the heat to high and heat the oil to 390F/180C. The easiest way to do this is to use a thermometer, or you can place the handle of a wooden spoon into the oil. If the oil bubbles up around the handle, it’s good to go. 
• Fry the chicken. Place a wire rack over a baking tray to put the freshly fried chicken on to keep it crispy. Once the oil is at the right temperature, carefully lower 3 – 4 pieces of chicken into the oil (this will depend on the size of your pot – make sure you’re not overcrowding it). Use a fish slice to move the chicken gently around in the oil, and fry for 5 minutes, until the coating is super golden and crispy. Transfer the fried chicken to the wire rack, then repeat with the rest of the chicken tenders.
• Make the hot honey sauce. While the chicken is frying, add the honey, chilli flakes and lemon juice to a small pot over medium heat. Mix for a couple of minutes, as the honey bubbles up and becomes much more runny. Remove from the heat.
• Toss with the sauce and serve. Transfer the chicken tenders to a large bowl, then pour the hot honey sauce all over the top. Toss the bowl (or carefully use tongs) to coat the chicken in the sauce, then transfer to a plate to serve. Enjoy while hot and crispy.

Notes

MAKE AHEAD: Follow the recipe up until tossing the chicken in the sauce, then leave the tenders to cool completely on the wire rack. Transfer to containers and store in the fridge. The next day, you can reheat them in the oven on a wire rack (to make sure the hot air can circulate and evenly crisp up the chicken) for 8 minutes at 300F/150C fan. Once hot and crispy, toss with the sauce and serve.

STORAGE INSTRUCTIONS: The tenders will keep well for 3 days in the fridge – reheat in the microwave, in the air fryer or in the oven (8 minutes at 300F/150C fan). 

AIR FRYER? Skip the deep frying and cook them in the air fryer instead if you like. Cook the tenders for 15 – 20 minutes at 400F/200C, turning them over halfway through and spraying them liberally with oil.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS: I love pairing the tenders with a pile of pickles, loaded crispy wedges and crunchy slaw, maybe with some aioli or gochujang aioli on the side for dipping.

Nutrition

Calories: 455kcal | Carbohydrates: 35g | Protein: 32g | Fat: 23g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Cholesterol: 115mg | Sodium: 720mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 13g

Must-Have Ingredients for the Perfect Hot Honey Chicken Tenders Recipe

To truly master how to make hot honey chicken tenders, it’s all about starting with the right ingredients. These aren’t your average tenders—hot honey chicken tenders need bold flavor, juicy texture, and that signature crispy coating to shine. The good news? You can build all of that with simple pantry staples.

Core Ingredients for Hot Honey Chicken Tenders:

For the Signature Hot Honey Glaze:

• Honey – The natural sweetness in every bite of your hot honey chicken tenders
• Hot Sauce – Adds depth and fire to balance the honey
• Chili Flakes or Cayenne – Customize heat levels to your taste
• Butter (optional) – Adds a velvety texture and helps sauce cling

This glaze transforms regular tenders into unforgettable hot honey chicken tenders—sticky, sweet, spicy, and addictive.

Tools and Equipment That Make Cooking Easier

Making restaurant-quality hot honey chicken tenders at home doesn’t require fancy tools. Just a few key kitchen items make the frying process easier, safer, and less messy.

Using these tools will help you cook hot honey chicken tenders with confidence and consistency, whether you’re serving them fresh or making a batch ahead of time.

Step-by-Step: How to Make Hot Honey Chicken Tenders at Home

Prepping the Chicken for Maximum Flavor

Before anything hits the hot oil, it all starts with the chicken prep. Getting that juicy, tender texture starts well before cooking—and that means a quick soak in seasoned buttermilk.

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Place your chicken tenders (or sliced chicken breasts) in a bowl. Add buttermilk, a pinch of salt, garlic powder, and paprika. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes, or better—overnight in the fridge. This helps break down proteins slightly and infuses your tenders with flavor from the inside out.

Why this matters: It’s one of the secrets to making hot honey chicken tenders that stay juicy and flavorful, even after frying.

Step 2: Prep the Dredge Station
In one bowl, crack a couple of eggs. In another, mix flour, cornstarch, and your spice blend: paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. You’ll dip each piece into the flour, then egg, then back into the flour. Double dredging = max crispiness.

Pro Tip: Press the flour mixture into the chicken to form all those nooks and crags that catch the hot honey sauce later.

The Coating: Crispy Breading Secrets

Your goal? A crust that stays on, shatters on the first bite, and holds up to the sauce. Here’s how to make it happen:

Step 3: Heat the Oil
In a heavy-bottomed pan or cast iron skillet, heat oil to 350°F–375°F. Too cold? You’ll get soggy chicken. Too hot? The crust burns before the inside cooks. Use a thermometer to get it right.

Step 4: Fry the Tenders
Fry in batches—about 3–5 tenders at a time. Don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 4–6 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp should hit 165°F). Transfer to a wire rack set over a baking sheet.

You’ve just nailed the crisp base of your hot honey chicken tenders. Up next? That spicy-sweet magic glaze.

Cooking Hot Honey Chicken Tenders: Fry, Bake, or Air-Fry

Classic Deep Frying for Maximum Crisp

When it comes to ultra-crunchy, golden-brown hot honey chicken tenders, frying is the gold standard. It delivers the signature texture that holds up beautifully under the sticky hot honey glaze.

How to Fry Like a Pro:

• Heat oil to a steady 350°F–375°F
• Use a deep, heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven
• Fry in small batches to maintain temperature and crispiness
• Let tenders rest on a wire rack (never paper towels) to avoid sogginess

Frying may require more cleanup, but for the crunchiest hot honey chicken tenders, it’s worth every drop of oil.

Healthier Options: Baking or Air-Frying Tips

If you’re craving comfort without the extra calories, both baking and air-frying are excellent alternatives to traditional frying—especially when you’re trying to lighten up your hot honey chicken recipe.

Baking Instructions:

• Preheat oven to 425°F
• Place dredged chicken tenders on a wire rack set over a sheet pan
• Lightly spray with oil or cooking spray
• Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crisp

Air-Frying Instructions:

• Preheat air fryer to 400°F
• Spray both the basket and the tenders with a little oil
• Cook in batches for 10–12 minutes, turning halfway

Both methods give you a satisfying crunch, though not quite the same as deep-frying. But once the hot honey sauce is on, it’s hard to tell the difference.

Crafting the Perfect Hot Honey Sauce for Chicken Tenders

What Is Honey Chicken Sauce Made Of?

The secret to irresistible hot honey chicken tenders lies in the sauce. It’s sweet, fiery, and sticky—clinging to every crackly edge of your golden fried chicken. But what exactly goes into it?

Here’s the simple base for the perfect honey chicken sauce:

Want that signature restaurant-style finish? Add a pinch of salt and a splash of apple cider vinegar to cut through the sweetness.

This is the same style of sauce you’ll find drizzled on Wingstop’s hot honey chicken—fiery, tangy, and absolutely addictive.

Balancing Sweetness and Heat in Hot Honey Sauce

Getting the right ratio is what separates a good glaze from a great one. You want a balance that lets the sweetness shine without losing the spicy edge.

Basic Hot Honey Sauce Recipe:

• ½ cup honey
• 1–2 tablespoons hot sauce
• 1 teaspoon chili flakes
• 1 tablespoon butter (optional)
• 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar (optional)

How to Make It:

1. In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the butter (if using).
2. Add honey, hot sauce, and chili flakes.
3. Stir gently for 2–3 minutes until well combined and warm.
4. Add a splash of vinegar to balance the heat.
5. Let it cool slightly before using.

Once your hot honey sauce is ready, you can toss, drizzle, or brush it over your freshly cooked hot honey chicken tenders. Be generous—the tenders soak it up beautifully.

Assembling and Serving Hot Honey Chicken Tenders

Tossing Chicken with Hot Honey: Techniques for Full Coating

Once your tenders are golden and crispy, it’s time for the best part—saucing them up. To get that signature glossy, sticky finish on your hot honey chicken tenders, technique matters.

Three Easy Ways to Coat Your Tenders:

Warm the sauce slightly before using so it glides over the chicken easily. Don’t let your tenders sit in the sauce too long—apply right before serving to keep that crust crispy.

Want extra heat? Sprinkle with more chili flakes or a drizzle of sriracha.

Creative Serving Ideas: From Tenders to Hot Honey Chicken Sandwich

Once you’ve learned how to make hot honey chicken tenders, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy them. These versatile bites work for game day snacks, meal prep lunches, or dinner with a twist.

Top Serving Ideas:

1. Hot Honey Chicken Sandwich
   Stack two sauced tenders on a toasted brioche bun with creamy coleslaw and sliced pickles. Add a swipe of ranch or garlic mayo for next-level flavor.
2. Loaded Hot Honey Chicken Bowl
   Serve over rice or mashed potatoes with roasted broccoli and a drizzle of extra sauce.
3. Tender Platter for a Crowd
   Pair with dipping sauces like ranch, blue cheese, or spicy BBQ. Add waffle fries and celery sticks on the side.
4. Waffle Chicken Brunch
   Place hot honey tenders over Belgian waffles and top with even more hot honey. Sweet, spicy, and perfect for weekend brunch.
5. Wraps or Quesadillas
   Slice tenders and tuck into a wrap with shredded lettuce, cheese, and more sauce for a high-protein lunch option.

Whether you’re building the ultimate sandwich or serving them family-style with homemade coleslaw, hot honey chicken tenders are endlessly customizable—and always a hit.

Hot Honey Chicken Variations and Inspired Dishes

From Korean Yangnyeom Chicken to Sweetgreen Hot Honey Chicken, global takes on boneless fried chicken continue to inspire bold, sweet-and-spicy American-style favorites like hot honey chicken tenders.

Hello Fresh Hot Honey Chicken: A Meal Kit Spin You Can Make at Home

If you’ve tried the Hello Fresh Hot Honey Chicken, you already know it’s one of their most loved recipes. The good news? You can recreate the same flavor at home—no subscription needed.

What sets the Hello Fresh version apart is its slightly lighter, weeknight-friendly twist. It’s usually oven-baked instead of fried and served with roasted veggies and mashed potatoes, all in under 40 minutes.

How to DIY Hello Fresh Hot Honey Chicken Tenders:

You get that same sweet-spicy combo, but with less oil and more convenience—ideal for busy weeknights. You’re still making hot honey chicken tenders, just a bit lighter.

Wingstop Hot Honey Chicken: How to Recreate It at Home

Fans of Wingstop’s hot honey chicken know it’s all about the sticky heat, bold seasoning, and deep-fried perfection. Whether you’re after tenders or wings, the core flavor comes from their signature blend of spices and a deep, smoky sweetness.

Here’s how to nail that Wingstop flavor at home:

1. Use a bold spice blend – smoked paprika, cayenne, brown sugar, onion powder
2. Deep fry your tenders – for that fast-food crunch
3. Make the glaze smoky – Add a drop of liquid smoke or smoked hot sauce to your hot honey
4. Toss while hot – just like Wingstop does, for maximum flavor adhesion

This version of hot honey chicken tenders packs extra kick, extra crisp, and major flavor. Perfect for game day or whenever you’re craving takeout-style food with real ingredients.

Want to level up even more? Sprinkle a touch of smoked sea salt after saucing.

Expert Tips for Juicy, Tender Hot Honey Chicken Tenders

How to Make the Chicken Tender and Juicy

The best hot honey chicken tenders aren’t just crispy on the outside—they’re insanely juicy on the inside. And achieving that perfect balance isn’t luck. It’s all about the method.

Here’s how to get it right every time:

1. Use Buttermilk Marinade
   Soaking chicken tenders in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes (or overnight) is a game-changer. Buttermilk tenderizes the meat naturally while infusing it with subtle flavor.
2. Don’t Overcook
   Whether frying, baking, or air-frying, internal temperature is key. Chicken should hit 165°F—no more, no less. Overcooked chicken dries out fast.
3. Start with Room-Temp Chicken
   Let the chicken rest outside the fridge for 15–20 minutes before cooking. This helps it cook evenly and prevents the crust from burning before the inside is done.
4. Seal in Moisture with the Coating
   A well-seasoned flour + cornstarch dredge locks in juices. Double-dipping helps trap moisture while giving the tenders a rugged, sauce-grabbing exterior.
5. Rest the Chicken After Cooking
   Place cooked tenders on a wire rack for 5 minutes before saucing. This helps redistribute juices inside and keeps the coating crisp.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cooking Chicken Tenders

These small tweaks are what elevate your hot honey chicken recipe from average to unforgettable. Moist, flavorful meat wrapped in crispy, golden coating—ready to soak up all that sticky, spicy hot honey sauce.

Nutrition, Storage, and Reheating Tips for Hot Honey Chicken Tenders

Calories, Macros, and Dietary Adjustments

While hot honey chicken tenders aren’t exactly diet food, you can absolutely make them lighter without sacrificing flavor. Whether you’re tracking macros or just looking to cut back on oil, these tips help you enjoy this spicy-sweet classic a little more mindfully.

Lighter Swaps to Try:

• Bake or air-fry instead of deep-fry
• Use Greek yogurt instead of buttermilk
• Use gluten-free flour blends for GF diets
• Try sugar-free hot sauce and low-carb honey substitutes for keto-friendly tweaks

These versions may not taste exactly like the real thing—but they’ll still give you crisp texture and that sweet-heat punch.

Best Ways to Store and Reheat Leftover Hot Honey Chicken

Want to keep your hot honey chicken tenders crispy and delicious for round two? Storage and reheating method matter big time.

Storing Leftovers:

• Let tenders cool completely before storing
• Store in an airtight container lined with paper towels to absorb moisture
• Refrigerate for up to 3 days

Freezing? Yes, but freeze without sauce for best results. Reheat and add fresh hot honey just before serving.

Reheating Tips for Maximum Crisp:

Always reheat without sauce, then drizzle hot honey afterward to keep that crunch intact.

Now that you know how to make, store, and reheat them, your hot honey chicken tenders can shine for dinner, lunch, or next-day snacks.

Conclusion: Make Hot Honey Chicken Tenders the Star of Your Next Meal

Now you know exactly how to make hot honey chicken tenders that are crispy, juicy, and drenched in sweet heat. From prepping and frying to drizzling that sticky hot honey glaze, you’ve got the tools to recreate viral favorites like Hello Fresh Hot Honey Chicken or Wingstop’s iconic version right at home.

Whether you’re serving them as a game day snack, packing them into a Hot Honey Chicken Sandwich, or meal-prepping for the week, these tenders hit all the marks: protein-packed, flavor-loaded, and crowd-approved.

Follow Easy Protein Kitchen on Pinterest for daily meal ideas, tasty twists, and to connect with a community of food lovers just like you!

FAQs About Hot Honey Chicken Tenders