If you love Nashville hot chicken, hot honey wings, or Wingstop vibes—this hot honey chicken tenders recipe is going to be your new obsession. Swipe to make it!
WHY YOU'LL LOVE THIS RECIPE
These hot honey chicken tenders are addictive, restaurant-quality, and surprisingly easy to make at home—perfect for game day, dinner, or whenever you want something epic.
INGREDIENTS FOR THE CHICKEN
– Chicken tenderloin
– Salt
– Garlic powder
– Onion powder
– Smoked paprika
– Cayenne pepper
– Frank’s hot sauce
– Honey
– Butter and more!
Mix the seasonings for the chicken in a small bowl. Rub the mixture all over the chicken tenderloins to coat evenly. Let the chicken rest for 15 mins.
STEP 1: SEASON THE CHICKEN
STEP 2: MAKE THE SEASONED FLOUR
In a large bowl, whisk the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper until well combined.
STEP 3: MIX THE WET BATTER
In a separate bowl, combine 4 tablespoons of seasoned flour, the egg, water, and Frank’s hot sauce. Whisk until smooth.
STEP 4: BREAD THE CHICKEN
Dredge each tender in the seasoned flour, then the wet batter. Return it to the seasoned flour for a final coating. Rest breaded tenders on a rack for 10–15 minutes.
STEP 5: FRY THE CHICKEN
Heat oil to 350°F. Fry the tenders in batches for 7–8 minutes until golden. Remove and rest on a paper towel-lined rack.
Then fry again for 3–4 minutes until deeply crispy.
STEP 6: MAKE THE HOT HONEY SAUCE
In a saucepan, warm the Frank’s hot sauce, honey, and butter over medium heat. Stir until melted and fully combined.
STEP 7: MAKE THE DRY RUB
In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, brown sugar, cayenne, black pepper, and salt.
STEP 8: COAT THE CHICKEN
Brush each tender with the hot honey sauce. Place them in a large bowl, sprinkle the dry rub over the top, and toss gently until every piece is coated.
STEP 9: MAKE THE WINGSTOP RANCH
Whisk together mayo, buttermilk, and the ranch packets until smooth. Chill until ready to serve.
STEP 10: SERVE
Serve the hot honey chicken tenders warm with plenty of homemade Wingstop ranch for dipping. Enjoy the crispy, spicy-sweet perfection!
PRO TIPS
- Double fry the chicken for maximum crunch
- Use chicken breasts by slicing them into strips for the same effect
- Serve the chicken with buns and pickles for hot honey chicken sandwiches
Want the full measurements, step-by-step instructions, and more tips? Click "learn more" or swipe up for the recipe.