Sweet and Spicy Sticky Chicken Tenders: An Easy Viral Dinner Recipe

Chicken tenders are a favorite for many, and this Sweet and Spicy Sticky Chicken Tenders recipe takes them to the next level. The combination of flavors creates a delicious glaze that is both sweet and savory, making for a delightful dinner option that’s sure to impress.

Why make this recipe

This recipe is perfect for a busy evening when you crave something tasty yet simple to prepare. The sticky glaze adds a unique twist to classic chicken tenders, and they bake to perfection in just 10-15 minutes. It’s a quick dinner solution that is both satisfying and stress-free.

Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken tenders
• 1/2 cup flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup hot sauce (like Frank’s RedHot)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon chopped green onions (for garnish)

How to make it

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix flour, salt, and pepper. Dredge the chicken tenders in the flour mixture until well coated.
3. Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the chicken tenders until golden brown and crispy on both sides, about 4-5 minutes per side.
4. In another bowl, combine honey, hot sauce, soy sauce, and garlic powder to create the sticky glaze.
5. Remove the chicken from the skillet and place them in a baking dish. Pour the sauce over the chicken tenders, coating them well.
6. Bake in the oven for 10-15 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce is bubbly.
7. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving. Enjoy!

How to serve it

Serve these chicken tenders hot, straight from the oven. They make a great main dish, especially when paired with sides like rice, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad. You can also serve them as an appetizer for parties, letting guests dip them into extra sauce or ranch dressing for an added kick.

How to store it

Store any leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last up to 3 days. When reheating, try to warm them in the oven to maintain their crispy texture, or you can quickly microwave them.

Helpful tips

• Ensure the oil is hot enough before adding the chicken to get that perfect crispy texture.
• Adjust the hot sauce to your liking; the more you add, the spicier your dish will be!
• Letting the fried chicken rest for a few minutes before baking can help develop flavor and texture.

Optional variations

• For a gluten-free option, substitute regular flour with almond flour or a gluten-free all-purpose flour mix.
• You can use chicken breasts cut into strips if you don’t have tenders on hand.
• Feel free to mix in different spices, like paprika or cayenne pepper, for a customized flavor.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use frozen chicken tenders?
Yes, just make sure to fully thaw them before cooking for even results.

Is there a way to make this dish less spicy?
Absolutely! You can reduce the amount of hot sauce or use a milder sauce to suit your taste.

Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can mix the glaze ahead of time and refrigerate it. Just warm it up slightly before using.

Print