Honey Butter Chicken Tenders: A Crispy, Sweet, and Savory Delight

Picture golden, crispy chicken tenders coated in a luscious glaze of melted honey and butter. Each bite delivers the perfect balance of crunch, tenderness, sweetness, and a touch of savory richness that makes you want to keep going back for more. Honey butter chicken tenders are comfort food at its finest—satisfying enough for dinner yet fun enough for game night or a weekend treat.

What makes them irresistible is the combination of textures and flavors. The chicken is first seasoned and fried (or baked if you prefer a lighter version) to achieve that satisfying crunch. Then comes the finishing touch: a silky glaze of honey and butter that clings beautifully to the tenders. The result is a dish that feels indulgent yet simple, making it a favorite among kids and adults alike. Whether you’re hosting friends, whipping up a family dinner, or simply craving something a little indulgent, honey butter chicken tenders deserve a spot on your table.

Ingredients Needed

Ingredient	Amount	Calories (Approx.)
Chicken tenders (raw)	1 lb	500
All-purpose flour	1 cup	455
Cornstarch	½ cup	210
Baking powder	1 tsp	2
Garlic powder	1 tsp	8
Paprika	1 tsp	6
Salt	1 tsp	0
Black pepper	½ tsp	3
Eggs	2 large	140
Whole milk	½ cup	75
Oil (for frying)	2 cups (approx.)	1900 (absorbed less)
Butter	4 tbsp	400
Honey	⅓ cup	360

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the coating mixture – In a large bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, baking powder, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
2. Create the wet batter – In another bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until smooth.
3. Coat the chicken tenders – Dip each tender into the dry flour mix, then into the egg mixture, and finally back into the flour mixture for a double coat. This ensures maximum crunch.
4. Heat the oil – In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat oil to 350°F (175°C).
5. Fry the chicken – Carefully place tenders into the hot oil and fry for 5–6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a wire rack or paper towel to drain excess oil.
6. Make the honey butter glaze – In a small saucepan, melt butter over low heat, then stir in honey until smooth and combined.
7. Coat the chicken tenders – Drizzle the honey butter glaze over the fried tenders or toss them gently in a large bowl to fully coat.
8. Serve hot and enjoy – Plate the tenders while still warm so the glaze remains sticky and glossy.

Tips for Customizing the Recipe

• Spicy kick – Add cayenne pepper or a drizzle of hot sauce to the honey butter for sweet heat.
• Oven-baked version – Instead of frying, bake coated chicken tenders at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
• Air fryer method – For a lighter option, cook at 375°F (190°C) for about 15 minutes, spraying lightly with oil for crispiness.
• Gluten-free option – Swap all-purpose flour for gluten-free flour or a cornstarch-only coating.
• Extra crispy – Double-dip tenders in flour and egg for a crunchier texture.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approx. 2 tenders with glaze)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	420
Protein	25 g
Fat	18 g
Carbohydrates	35 g
Fiber	1 g
Sugars	15 g

Serving Suggestions

Honey butter chicken tenders can shine on their own, but pairing them with the right sides takes the meal to another level:

• Classic comfort – Serve with creamy mashed potatoes and steamed green beans.
• Game-day platter – Add fries, onion rings, and a side of ranch or spicy mayo for dipping.
• Sweet & savory combo – Pair with cornbread, coleslaw, or roasted sweet potatoes.
• Light and fresh – Serve atop a crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the sweetness.
• Family-style meal – Offer alongside buttered corn on the cob and dinner rolls.

FAQs

1. Can I bake honey butter chicken tenders instead of frying them?

Yes! To make a lighter version, bake them at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through. You’ll still get a crispy texture without deep frying.

2. How do I make honey butter glaze less sweet?

If you prefer a milder glaze, reduce the honey slightly and add a splash of hot sauce, Dijon mustard, or lemon juice to balance the flavors.

3. Can I make honey butter chicken tenders ahead of time?

You can fry or bake them in advance, refrigerate for up to 3 days, and reheat in an oven or air fryer to keep them crispy. It’s best to add the honey butter glaze right before serving.

4. What’s the best oil for frying chicken tenders?

Neutral oils like vegetable, canola, or peanut oil work best since they have high smoke points and won’t overpower the flavor of the chicken.

5. Can I use chicken breast instead of chicken tenders?

Absolutely! Slice boneless chicken breast into strips and prepare the same way. Just make sure they’re cut evenly so they cook properly.

6. Do honey butter chicken tenders work in an air fryer?

Yes. Coat them as usual, spray lightly with oil, and air fry at 375°F (190°C) for about 15 minutes, flipping once. They turn out crispy with less oil.

Conclusion

Honey butter chicken tenders are the ultimate blend of crispy, juicy chicken and a sticky-sweet glaze that leaves everyone licking their fingers. They’re simple to make, versatile enough for both casual dinners and special gatherings, and customizable to fit your taste. Whether fried, baked, or air-fried, these tenders deliver comfort and flavor in every bite. So the next time you want to impress your family or treat yourself, bring a little magic to the table with honey butter chicken tenders—you won’t be disappointed.