Name: Sriracha Honey Chicken Tenders
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Chicken fillets; 1 cup Panko crumbs; 1/4 cup Milk; 1 Egg; 1/4 cup Sriracha; 1/2 cup Honey; 1 tablespoon Soy sauce; 1 teaspoon Rice vinegar; 1 Lime juice; 1/2 cup Sour cream; 2 tablespoons Mayo; 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce; 1 Lime zest; to taste Salt & pepper

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Whenever I think of comfort food, the first thing that comes to mind is Sriracha Honey Chicken Tenders. These little bites of joy have been a staple in my kitchen whenever I crave something crispy and flavorful. I still remember the first time I made them; the aroma of the crispy chicken filling the house had my family gathering around the kitchen, eager to taste. The sweet and spicy combination of sriracha and honey is simply irresistible, making each bite a delightful experience. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a fun gathering with friends, these tenders never fail to impress. I often find myself whipping them up for movie nights or even for a spontaneous dinner party. The beauty of Sriracha Honey Chicken Tenders lies not only in their taste but also in how easy they are to prepare. You don’t need to be a culinary expert to make them; just a little love and care in the kitchen, and you’ll have a dish that everyone will rave about!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
25 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
15 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
420 kcal

Protein:
25 g

Diet:
Keto, Whole30, Gluten-Free

Fat:
18 g

Tools Used:
Frying Pan, Whisk, Baking Sheet, Oven

Why You Need This Sriracha Honey Chicken Tenders

1. A Flavor Explosion

The first thing that stands out about Sriracha Honey Chicken Tenders is the extraordinary flavor combination. The heat from the sriracha perfectly balances the sweetness of the honey, creating a complex taste that keeps you coming back for more. This dish proves that sweet and spicy can be best friends, and it’s a sensation that never gets old.

2. Perfectly Crispy Texture

One of my favorite things about these tenders is their crispy exterior. Using panko crumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs makes all the difference, giving each piece a satisfying crunch. When you bite into them, the crunchiness is just as satisfying as the flavors, making them an excellent addition to any meal.

3. Versatile Serving Options

These tenders are incredibly versatile. You can serve them as an appetizer, a main dish, or even as a party snack. They pair wonderfully with a variety of dips, making them perfect for game day or family gatherings. Whichever way you choose to present them, they’re sure to steal the spotlight.

4. Simple Preparation

Many people shy away from making fried foods at home, thinking it’s complicated. However, Sriracha Honey Chicken Tenders are surprisingly easy to whip up. With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time. This makes them a go-to recipe for busy weeknights!

5. Family-Friendly

Even picky eaters love these tenders! The combination of sweet and spicy flavors, along with the crispy texture, makes them appealing to both adults and kids alike. They’re perfect for family dinners, and I have yet to meet anyone who doesn’t rave about them.

6. Meal Prep Friendly

If you’re looking to meal prep for the week, Sriracha Honey Chicken Tenders are a fantastic option. They store well, and you can easily reheat them for a quick and satisfying meal. Just pop them in the oven for a few minutes, and they’ll be as good as fresh!

Ingredients Overview for Sriracha Honey Chicken Tenders

The ingredients for Sriracha Honey Chicken Tenders are a harmonious blend that enhances the dish’s flavor and texture. Each component plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of heat and sweetness. The main star, chicken fillets, provides a hearty base, while the sriracha and honey create that signature spicy-sweet flavor. The panko crumbs give a delightful crunch, making these tenders a true crowd-pleaser.

1 pound chicken fillets: Tender and juicy, these fillets form the heart of the dish, soaking up all the delicious flavors.
1 cup panko crumbs: These Japanese-style breadcrumbs give the tenders their signature crunchy texture, ensuring every bite is satisfying.
1/4 cup milk: Used to create a moist batter, this ingredient helps the panko adhere to the chicken.
1 egg: Acts as a binding agent, ensuring the panko sticks well to the chicken for that perfect crust.
1/4 cup sriracha: This spicy sauce adds a kick that elevates the dish, making it exciting and flavorful.
1/2 cup honey: The sweet counterpart to the sriracha, this ingredient balances the heat and adds a delicious glaze.
1 tablespoon soy sauce: Adds depth of flavor and a hint of umami, making the chicken even more delicious.
1 teaspoon rice vinegar: This ingredient adds a touch of acidity that brightens the overall flavor profile.
Juice of 1 lime: Fresh and zesty, the lime juice cuts through the richness of the chicken.
1/2 cup sour cream: Provides a creamy dip that offset the spiciness of the tenders.
2 tablespoons mayo: Adds richness and creaminess to the dip.
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce: Boosts the flavor of the sauce, adding complexity.
Zest of 1 lime: Adds an aromatic citrus note that brightens the dish.
Salt & pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning, enhancing all the other flavors!

Step by Step Guide for Sriracha Honey Chicken Tenders

Cooking Sriracha Honey Chicken Tenders is an enjoyable process that yields delicious results. Let’s dive into the steps that will guide you to create these mouthwatering tenders. With just a few ingredients and a bit of love, you’ll have a dish that’s sure to impress!

Preheat your oven to 425F. Position the rack in the top third of the oven to ensure even cooking. This high heat will create a beautifully crispy texture on the tenders.
Prepare your workstation by setting up two bowls. In the first bowl, pour in the panko crumbs. In the second bowl, crack the egg and add the milk, whisking them together until well combined. This mixture will help the crumbs stick to the chicken.
Dip each piece of chicken into the liquid mixture, making sure it’s fully coated. Let any excess milk and egg drip off before moving to the next step.
Next, roll the chicken in the bowl of panko crumbs. Press gently to ensure the crumbs adhere to all sides of the chicken fillet.
Place the coated chicken on a non-stick baking sheet. Make sure they’re evenly spaced to allow air to circulate, which will help them crisp up nicely.
Bake the chicken tenders in the preheated oven for about 15 to 20 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and cooked through. You’ll know they’re done when the internal temperature reaches 165F.
While the chicken is baking, combine the sriracha and honey in a bowl along with the soy sauce, rice vinegar, and juice of lime. Stir until well blended. This will be the perfect sauce to coat your tenders.
In another small bowl, mix the ingredients for the dipping sauce. Combine the sour cream, mayo, Worcestershire sauce, and zest of lime. This creamy dip offers a cool contrast to the spicy tenders.
Once the tenders are cooked, remove them from the oven and immediately dip them in the sriracha honey mixture, ensuring they’re well coated. You can use tongs or your fingers!
Serve the tenders hot with the creamy dipping sauce on the side. Enjoy your delicious homemade Sriracha Honey Chicken Tenders!

Things Worth Knowing

Cook in batches: If you’re making a lot of tenders, consider cooking them in batches to ensure they bake evenly.
Check for doneness: Always use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken to confirm it has reached 165F.
Try different spices: Feel free to customize the panko crumbs by adding your favorite spices or herbs for an extra flavor kick.
Let them rest: Allow the chicken tenders to rest for a few minutes after removing them from the oven so they stay juicy.

Helpful Hints

To make your cooking experience smoother, here are some helpful hints for Sriracha Honey Chicken Tenders. Whether you’re looking for storage tips or ways to enhance the dish, these suggestions will come in handy!

Storage: Keep leftover tenders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Freezing: You can freeze uncooked, breaded tenders for up to one month. Just bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Pairing: Consider serving these tenders with a side of fresh veggies or a light salad to balance out the meal.
Cooking method: For an extra crispy texture, try air frying the tenders instead of baking!
Variations: Experiment with different sauces or dips! A sweet chili sauce or ranch dressing can add another layer of flavor.

Side Dish Ideas for Sriracha Honey Chicken Tenders

When it comes to serving Sriracha Honey Chicken Tenders, pairing them with the right side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some ideas to consider:

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery mashed potatoes perfectly complement the spicy crunch of the tenders.
Coleslaw: A tangy and crunchy coleslaw adds a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the chicken.
Sweet Potato Fries: Baked or fried sweet potato fries are a delightful side that adds a touch of sweetness.
Rice: Serve your tenders over a bed of fluffy rice to soak up the honey sriracha sauce, making for a satisfying meal.
Steamed Vegetables: Keep it light with a side of steamed broccoli or green beans to balance the dish.
Salad: A crisp garden salad with a light vinaigrette can add freshness and color to your plate.
Perfect for Parties: These tenders are ideal for any occasion, from casual dinners to festive gatherings.
Make it a Wrap: Consider using the tenders in a wrap with lettuce, tomato, and your favorite sauce for a delicious lunch option.

FAQ

Yes, you can prepare the tenders ahead of time by breading them and storing them in the fridge for a few hours before baking. This way, you can simply pop them in the oven when you’re ready to serve. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time if they go straight from the fridge to the oven.

These tenders pair well with a variety of sides! Consider serving them with garlic mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or sweet potato fries. They can also be enjoyed with a fresh garden salad or as part of a wrap with some lettuce and sauce for a delicious lunch.

To store leftovers, place the chicken tenders in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to three days. For best results, reheat them in the oven to maintain their crispy texture. You can also freeze the uncooked tenders for later use, just remember to adjust the cooking time if baking from frozen.

Absolutely! If you prefer a milder sauce, you can reduce the amount of sriracha used or substitute it with a less spicy hot sauce. Adding more honey can also balance out the heat. Feel free to experiment until you find the perfect flavor for your taste buds!

Conclusion

In summary, Sriracha Honey Chicken Tenders are a delightful combination of sweet and spicy flavors wrapped in a crispy coating. They are easy to make, perfect for any occasion, and sure to please everyone at your table. I encourage you to give this recipe a try – your taste buds will thank you!