Go Back
Spicy Honey Crispy Chicken Tenders Recipe

Spicy Honey Crispy Chicken Tenders Recipe

Rebecca
These spicy honey crispy chicken tenders are crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and coated in a sweet and spicy glaze. Perfect for game days, family meals, or as a treat for yourself!
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Appetizer, Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 480 kcal

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
  • 1 lb 500g chicken tenders
  • 1 cup plain flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • Vegetable oil for frying

For the Spicy Honey Glaze:

  • ½ cup honey
  • 2 teaspoons chili flakes adjustable to heat preference
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice

Instructions
 

  • Start by preparing the marinade. Combine the Greek yogurt, crushed garlic, salt, paprika, turmeric, and thyme in a mixing bowl. Stir well, then add the chicken tenders, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. Marinate for at least 30 minutes, but if you can leave it for 24 hours, the flavor will be even more robust.
  • While the chicken marinates, prepare the coating. Mix the flour, baking powder, salt, paprika, turmeric, and thyme in another bowl. When you’re ready, remove the chicken from the marinade and coat each piece thoroughly in the flour mixture. Press the flour onto the chicken to create a textured, craggy layer that will fry up extra crispy.
  • Pour vegetable oil into a heavy-bottomed pot, filling it about halfway. Heat the oil to 390°F (180°C). A thermometer is ideal for accuracy, but you can test by dropping in a small piece of bread. If it sizzles and rises to the surface, the oil is ready.
  • Carefully add 3-4 tenders to the hot oil at a time, avoiding overcrowding. Fry for about 5 minutes until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Remove each batch and place them on a wire rack to drain excess oil. This keeps them crisp and delicious.
  • While the chicken rests, make the glaze by combining honey, chili flakes, and lemon juice in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir for a few minutes until the honey is warm and runny, then remove it from the heat.
  • Place the fried tenders in a large bowl and pour the spicy honey glaze over them. Toss gently to coat each piece thoroughly. Serve immediately with your favorite sides or dipping sauces.

Notes

  • Freezing: Freeze the coated but uncooked tenders on a baking tray, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Fry directly from frozen (add extra time to cooking).
  • Extra Heat: Add cayenne pepper to the marinade or red chili paste to the glaze for a spicier version.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour instead of plain flour.
Keyword Spicy Honey Crispy Chicken Tenders Recipe