Description
Crispy Honey Butter Chicken Tenders are golden-fried chicken strips coated in seasoned flour and panko breadcrumbs, then drizzled with a luscious honey butter sauce. This comforting American main course combines the perfect balance of savory and sweet, making it an easy and satisfying dinner option.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken Tenders
- 1 pound chicken tenders
Breading
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
Frying
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
Honey Butter Drizzle
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Garnish
- Chopped parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Breading Mixtures: In a shallow bowl, combine the flour, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika to create the seasoned flour mixture. Place the beaten eggs in a separate bowl and the panko breadcrumbs in another bowl for easy coating.
- Coat the Chicken Tenders: Dredge each chicken tender first in the seasoned flour mixture, ensuring full coverage. Then dip it into the beaten eggs, followed by coating thoroughly with the panko breadcrumbs. This triple-step coating guarantees a crispy texture once cooked.
- Heat the Oil and Fry: In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the vegetable oil until hot but not smoking. Fry the chicken tenders in batches to avoid overcrowding, cooking each side for 3 to 4 minutes until they turn golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F, ensuring they are fully cooked.
- Drain the Chicken: Remove the fried chicken tenders and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil and maintain crispiness.
- Make the Honey Butter Drizzle: Over low heat in a small saucepan, melt the unsalted butter. Stir in the honey and salt continuously until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This sweet and savory sauce will enhance the flavor of the chicken.
- Serve: Drizzle the honey butter sauce evenly over the crispy chicken tenders. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired for a fresh touch. Serve immediately while hot for the best texture and flavor experience.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, double coat the chicken by dipping the tenders again in the egg and panko breadcrumbs before frying.
- To make a healthier alternative, bake the tenders at 400°F (200°C) for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through, instead of frying.
- Adjust the amount of honey in the butter drizzle to suit your desired level of sweetness.
- Use gluten-free flour and gluten-free panko breadcrumbs to make this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
