If you’re craving a dish that bursts with flavor, you’ve found it! My Sriracha Honey Chicken Tenders are simple yet delicious. With the perfect sweet and spicy blend, they make for a quick meal or a fun snack. In this easy recipe, I’ll guide you through each step, from prepping your ingredients to serving up crispy tenders. Let’s dive in and bring some heat to your kitchen!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients for Sriracha Honey Chicken Tenders
For the main dish, you need:
– 1 lb chicken tenders
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 large eggs
– 3/4 cup breadcrumbs (panko for extra crunch)
These ingredients form the base of the dish. The chicken tenders provide the protein, while flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs create a crunchy coat.
Seasoning and Breading Components
To flavor the chicken, gather:
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
These seasonings add depth to the chicken. They enhance flavor without overpowering the dish.
Optional Garnishes and Serving Suggestions
To make your dish pop, consider:
– 1/4 cup honey
– 3 tablespoons Sriracha sauce
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Fresh lime wedges
– Sesame seeds for a sprinkle
These garnishes add texture and flavor. They also make your plate look inviting. Drizzling some extra sauce on top gives a lovely finish. Serve with a side of crispy coleslaw for a refreshing crunch.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Breading Station
Start by gathering your bowls. In one bowl, mix 1/2 cup of flour, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. This mix adds great flavor. In a second bowl, whisk 2 large eggs until they are smooth. In the last bowl, pour in 3/4 cup of breadcrumbs. I like using panko for extra crunch. Set these bowls up in a row. This way, you can coat the chicken easily.
Coating the Chicken Tenders
Take a chicken tender and dip it into the flour mix. Make sure it is well covered. Shake off any extra flour. Next, dip the chicken into the egg mix, letting the excess drip off. Finally, coat it in the breadcrumbs. Press down gently to help the crumbs stick. Place the coated chicken tenders on a plate. Repeat this process with all the chicken tenders.
Making the Sriracha Honey Sauce
In a small bowl, combine 1/4 cup honey, 3 tablespoons Sriracha sauce, 1 tablespoon soy sauce, and 1 teaspoon sesame oil. Whisk them together until smooth. This sauce will add a sweet and spicy kick to your chicken. Set aside a few tablespoons. You’ll use this for drizzling later.
Frying the Chicken Tenders
Heat cooking oil in a large skillet over medium heat. The oil should be hot but not smoking. Add the coated chicken tenders in batches. Don’t overcrowd the pan; this helps them cook evenly. Fry each side for about 4-5 minutes until they turn golden brown. Check if they are done by ensuring the inside reaches 165°F. Once cooked, remove them from the skillet and let them rest.
Tossing in the Sauce and Serving
Place the cooked chicken tenders in a large mixing bowl. Pour the Sriracha honey sauce over them. Toss gently until every tender is coated well. Serve the chicken on a plate. Drizzle with the reserved sauce for extra flavor. Enjoy your meal with some fresh lime wedges and crunchy coleslaw on the side.
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Crunch
To get that perfect crunch on your chicken tenders, use panko breadcrumbs. They provide a light and crispy texture. Make sure to coat the chicken well in flour and eggs. This helps the breadcrumbs stick better. Fry the tenders in hot oil. This keeps them crispy. Avoid overcrowding the pan. Fry in batches to ensure even cooking.
Substitutions for Ingredients
If you need to change ingredients, you can use cornstarch instead of flour. It gives a nice crisp too. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs. If you want less heat, swap Sriracha for a mild hot sauce. Honey can be replaced with maple syrup for a different flavor.
How to Adjust Spice Levels
To lower the spice, use less Sriracha in the sauce. You can add more honey to balance the heat. If you love spice, add extra Sriracha to the sauce. Another option is to sprinkle red pepper flakes over the chicken. This lets everyone control their spice level.
Variations
Oven-Baked Sriracha Honey Chicken Tenders
Oven-baked chicken tenders are a great option. Preheat your oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Prepare the chicken as usual. After coating, place the tenders on the sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway. This method gives you crispy tenders with less oil.
Air Fryer Version for Healthier Option
Using an air fryer makes these tenders even healthier. Set your air fryer to 400°F. Arrange the chicken tenders in a single layer. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning halfway through. The result is juicy and crunchy chicken with less fat.
Gluten-Free Adaptation
For a gluten-free version, swap out the regular flour and breadcrumbs. Use almond flour or a gluten-free blend instead. Check labels for the Sriracha and soy sauce. Many brands offer gluten-free options. This way, you can enjoy the same tasty chicken without gluten.
Storage Info
Proper Storage Techniques for Leftovers
After making Sriracha Honey Chicken Tenders, let them cool to room temperature. Place leftovers in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh and tasty. If you have lots, divide them into smaller portions. This makes it easy to heat just what you need later.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat, preheat your oven to 375°F. Place the chicken tenders on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10-15 minutes. This helps them stay crispy. You can also use the microwave. Just cover them with a damp paper towel and heat for 1-2 minutes.
How Long Do They Last in the Fridge?
These chicken tenders last about 3-4 days in the fridge. Make sure they stay in an airtight container. If you notice any strange smells or changes in texture, it’s best to toss them out. Always prioritize food safety!
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts. Cut them into strips. This gives you similar size pieces. You may need to adjust cooking time. Make sure they reach 165°F inside.
What dips pair well with Sriracha Honey Chicken Tenders?
Many dips work great with these tenders. Here are some tasty options:
– Ranch dressing
– Blue cheese dressing
– Sweet chili sauce
– Creamy garlic dip
These dips add more flavor and contrast to the chicken.
How can I make the sauce spicier?
To spice up the sauce, add more Sriracha. A teaspoon or two can do the trick. You can also mix in crushed red pepper flakes. If you like heat, try fresh chopped jalapeños.
Can these be made ahead of time?
Yes, you can make these tenders ahead. Cook them, then let them cool. Store in the fridge for up to two days. When you’re ready, reheat in an oven for crispiness. Enjoy them warm!
In this post, I shared how to make tasty Sriracha honey chicken tenders. You learned about the main ingredients, easy steps for cooking, and tips for the best results. I also covered fun variations and how to store leftovers.
Now, you can enjoy this dish in many ways! Don’t be afraid to try new ideas or adjust the spice. Happy cooking!
