Spicy Hot Honey Bacon Chicken Tenders: Irresistibly Crispy and Flavorful

Introduction

Hey there! I’m Jenny, the passionate creator behind Recipes Cookery. Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Hot Honey Bacon Chicken Tenders. These tenders are a delightful fusion of spicy, sweet, and savory flavors that will have your taste buds dancing with joy!

Cooking is my happy place, especially when my 6-year-old son joins me. Together, we whip up delicious meals, turning ordinary cooking sessions into cherished family moments. This recipe is not just about food; it’s about creating memories too!

Ingredients

To make your own Hot Honey Bacon Chicken Tenders, gather these ingredients:

• 1 pound chicken tenders
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cornmeal
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 slices of cooked bacon, chopped
• 1/2 cup hot honey
• Vegetable oil for frying

Timing

Understandably, timing is essential in the kitchen. Here’s a quick breakdown of the time involved:

• Preparation: 15 minutes
• Marinating: 30 minutes (optional but recommended)
• Cooking: 15-20 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s get started on these scrumptious Hot Honey Bacon Chicken Tenders!

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

First, place the chicken tenders in a bowl and cover them with buttermilk. This step is crucial for tenderizing the chicken. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator. If you’re short on time, even 15 minutes will do!

Step 2: Prepare the Coating

While the chicken is marinating, set up your coating station. In a large bowl, combine flour, cornmeal, paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure even seasoning.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Once the chicken has marinated, remove it from the refrigerator. Dredge each tender in the flour mixture, ensuring they are well-coated. Shake off any excess flour and set them aside on a plate.

Step 4: Fry the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil over medium heat. Once hot, carefully add the chicken tenders in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Fry until golden brown, approximately 4-5 minutes per side. Once cooked, transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil.

Step 5: Add the Bacon and Hot Honey

While the chicken is still hot, sprinkle the chopped bacon over the tenders and drizzle hot honey generously. Trust me; this is where the magic happens!

Nutritional Information

For those keeping an eye on their nutrition, here’s an approximate breakdown of the nutritional information per serving:

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 25g
• Fat: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Sugar: 10g

Healthier Alternatives

Want to make this dish a bit healthier? Here are a few suggestions:

• Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for added fiber.
• Try baking the chicken tenders at 400°F for 20-25 minutes instead of frying.
• Swap out regular bacon for turkey bacon to reduce fat.
• Use a sugar-free hot honey or make your own using honey and a dash of hot sauce.

Serving Suggestions

These Hot Honey Bacon Chicken Tenders are perfect on their own, but why not elevate your meal? Here are some serving suggestions:

• Serve with a side of crispy fries or sweet potato fries.
• Pair with a fresh salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette.
• Include dipping sauces such as ranch or blue cheese for added flavor.
• Make it a fun meal by serving them as sliders on mini buns!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even the best of us can make mistakes in the kitchen. Here are a few common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Don’t skip marinating the chicken; it really helps with tenderness!
• Ensure your oil is hot enough before frying. A test is to drop a small piece of chicken in; if it sizzles, you’re good to go.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan. Fry in batches for even cooking.

Storage Tips

Got leftovers? Here’s how to store your Hot Honey Bacon Chicken Tenders:

• Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.

Conclusion

There you have it! A flavorful recipe for Hot Honey Bacon Chicken Tenders that’s sure to impress family and friends alike. Cooking should be fun and enjoyable, and I hope this recipe brings you as much joy as it brings me.

Remember, it’s all about creating delicious memories in the kitchen. So grab your apron, and let’s get cooking!

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?

Absolutely! Just cut the chicken breasts into strips, and follow the same instructions. Adjust cooking time as needed.

What can I substitute for hot honey?

If you don’t have hot honey, mix regular honey with a few drops of hot sauce for a similar effect!

Can I make these chicken tenders ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the chicken and coat them ahead of time. Just fry them right before serving for optimal crispiness.

Final Thoughts

Thank you for joining me today on this culinary adventure! I hope you’re inspired to try making these Hot Honey Bacon Chicken Tenders at home. They’re sure to become a family favorite!

Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your experiences with me on social media. I love hearing from you!

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