Are you ready to spice up your dinner with something simple and delicious? My Sriracha Honey Chicken Tenders are the answer! In just a few easy steps, you can create crispy chicken tenders coated in a sweet and spicy sauce that everyone will love. This recipe is not only tasty but also perfect for busy nights. Let’s dive into the ingredients and get cooking!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor Combination: The sweet heat of Sriracha honey perfectly complements the crispy chicken tenders, making every bite a flavor explosion.
- Quick and Easy Prep: In just 30 minutes, you can whip up this restaurant-quality dish at home, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Versatile Serving Options: These chicken tenders are great as an appetizer, main dish, or even in a wrap, allowing for various meal ideas.
- Healthy Twist: By baking or air-frying instead of deep-frying, you can enjoy a lighter version of this classic comfort food without sacrificing taste.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 lb chicken tenders
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
Sriracha Honey Sauce Ingredients
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons Sriracha sauce
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon lime juice
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
Seasoning Ingredients
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
The main ingredients for Sriracha honey chicken tenders are simple but key. Chicken tenders are the star. They stay juicy and cook quickly. The flour, eggs, and panko breadcrumbs give them a great crunch.
For the Sriracha honey sauce, you need honey and Sriracha. This blend adds sweetness and heat. Soy sauce gives a savory depth. Lime juice and sesame oil brighten the flavor.
In the seasoning mix, garlic powder and onion powder add aroma. Salt and black pepper enhance the taste. Each ingredient plays a part in making this dish special.
Gather all these items before you start cooking. This makes the process smooth and fun!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Chicken
Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels. This step removes excess moisture. Dry chicken helps the coating stick better. Next, set up your breading station. You will need three bowls for this. In the first bowl, mix flour, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. In the second bowl, whisk the eggs until smooth. Keep the third bowl empty for the panko breadcrumbs.
Breading the Chicken
Start by dipping each chicken tender into the flour mixture. Make sure to shake off any extra flour. Next, place the tender into the eggs. Coat it well, letting the excess drip off. Finally, roll the tender in the panko breadcrumbs. Press firmly to ensure an even coating. This gives the chicken a nice crunch when cooked.
Cooking the Chicken
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add vegetable oil. Wait until the oil is hot. Add the chicken tenders in batches. Don’t overcrowd the pan; this helps them cook evenly. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side. Look for a golden brown color. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should reach 165°F (75°C). This means the chicken is safe to eat and perfectly cooked.
Tips & Tricks
Achieving Perfect Texture
To get the best texture for your chicken tenders, start by patting the chicken dry. Use paper towels to remove moisture. This step helps the coating stick better. For a crispy panko coating, make sure to coat the chicken evenly. Press the panko into the chicken. This makes it stick well and gives it a nice crunch.
Flavor Enhancements
You can add extra flavor to your chicken tenders. Try adding spices like smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for a kick. You can also mix in some dried herbs, like oregano or thyme. If you want to switch up the sauce, use a sweet chili sauce or a garlic aioli instead of Sriracha honey. Each option gives a new twist to the dish.
Serving Suggestions
When serving the chicken tenders, consider pairing them with sides like coleslaw or rice. These sides balance the dish well. For presentation, arrange the chicken on a platter and sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Add lime wedges on the side for a fresh touch. This makes the dish look inviting and colorful.
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh chicken tenders will yield the best flavor and texture. Look for tenders that are pink and firm to the touch.
- Customize the Spice Level: Adjust the amount of Sriracha in the sauce to suit your heat preference. Start with less and add more for extra kick!
- Double the Sauce: If you love the Sriracha honey sauce, consider making a double batch for dipping. It’s great for drizzling or serving on the side!
- Let the Tenders Rest: After cooking, allow the chicken tenders to rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps keep them juicy and tender.
Variations
Gluten-Free Option
If you want a gluten-free version, swap the all-purpose flour for almond flour or rice flour. Both work well and keep the chicken tender. For breadcrumbs, use gluten-free panko or crushed cornflakes. They add great crunch without the gluten.
Spice Level Adjustments
To make a milder sauce, use less Sriracha. Start with 1 tablespoon and taste as you go. You can add more honey to balance the heat. If you love spice, add extra Sriracha or even a pinch of cayenne. This will give your tenders a nice kick.
Cooking Method Alternatives
You can bake the chicken tenders for a healthier option. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the coated tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spray them lightly with cooking oil. Bake for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
For an air fryer, preheat it to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the tenders in a single layer. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway. This will give you crispy tenders with less oil.
Storage Info
Refrigerating Leftovers
Store your chicken tenders in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh and safe. They last up to three days in the fridge. If you want to reheat them, use an oven or air fryer. This helps maintain their crispiness.
Freezing Chicken Tenders
To freeze, place the cooled chicken tenders in a freezer-safe bag. Squeeze out the air before sealing. They stay good for about three months. To reheat, thaw them in the fridge overnight. Then, bake or air fry until hot and crispy.
Condiments and Sauce Storage
For leftover Sriracha honey sauce, store it in a jar with a tight lid. It can last up to two weeks in the fridge. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the sauce too. Just pour it into ice cube trays and freeze. This way, you can use just what you need later.
FAQs
What can I substitute for chicken tenders?
You can use chicken breasts cut into strips. Thighs work well too for juiciness. If you prefer a non-chicken option, try tofu or tempeh. Just slice them to similar sizes for even cooking.
Can I make Sriracha Honey Chicken Tenders ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the chicken tenders and sauce ahead. Just store them separately in the fridge for up to two days. When ready to cook, bread and fry the chicken as usual.
How do I get my chicken tenders extra crispy?
To achieve extra crispiness, make sure the chicken is dry before breading. Also, use panko breadcrumbs for better texture. Fry them in hot oil and don’t crowd the pan. This helps them cook evenly.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! These chicken tenders store well. Cook them and let them cool. Then, place them in airtight containers. They last up to four days in the fridge.
What other sauces can be used besides Sriracha Honey?
You can try barbecue sauce for a smoky flavor. Honey mustard adds a tangy twist. For a spicy kick, use buffalo sauce or a sweet chili sauce. Feel free to mix and match!
This blog shared a tasty recipe for Sriracha Honey Chicken Tenders. You learned about the main ingredients, including chicken, flour, and panko breadcrumbs. We covered step-by-step cooking instructions and helpful tips for the perfect texture. You also explored variations, such as gluten-free options and different spice levels. Finally, I detailed how to store leftovers and answered common questions.
Enjoy making these flavorful tenders and impressing everyone at your next mea
