Introduction
Dive into a delightful culinary experience with this mouthwatering recipe for crispy fried chicken tenderloins drizzled with a spicy hot honey sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a finger-licking appetizer, this dish combines the crunch of perfectly fried chicken with the sweetness and heat of the sauce, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
For the Chicken:
– 1 pound chicken tenderloins
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Hot Honey Sauce:
– 1/2 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons hot sauce
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Prep Time
30 minutes (plus marinating time)
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: Serves 4
With these ingredients and directions, you’re all set to create a delicious dish that will tantalize your taste buds! Enjoy the perfect combination of spicy and sweet with every crispy bite.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Marinate the Chicken
In a large bowl, pour the buttermilk over the chicken tenderloins, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to marinate.
Prepare the Coating
In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Dredge the Chicken
Remove the chicken from the buttermilk, allowing any excess to drip off. Dredge each tenderloin in the flour mixture, ensuring an even coating.
Heat the Oil
In a large skillet, heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
Cook the Chicken
Carefully place the coated chicken tenderloins into the hot oil, frying in batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook each side for approximately 3-4 minutes, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Drain Excess Oil
Once cooked, transfer the chicken tenders to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
Prepare the Hot Honey Sauce
In a small saucepan over low heat, combine the honey, hot sauce, butter, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir until the butter is melted and the mixture is well combined.
Drizzle the Sauce
Drizzle the hot honey sauce over the fried chicken tenders, ensuring each piece is well coated.
Serve
Serve immediately, optionally garnished with fresh herbs or alongside your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
Tip for Marinating
For best results, marinate the chicken for at least one hour or up to overnight for deeper flavor.
Coating Variations
Feel free to add additional spices to the flour mixture for extra flavor, such as garlic powder or cayenne pepper.
Oil Temperature
Use a thermometer to ensure the oil is at the right temperature; too low will make the chicken greasy.
Storage Suggestions
Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven for best texture.
Cook Techniques
Marinating the Chicken
Soaking chicken tenderloins in buttermilk not only enhances the flavor but also helps to tenderize the meat, making it juicy and flavorful.
Dredging
Coating the marinated chicken in a seasoned flour mixture creates a crispy outer layer when fried. Ensure an even coating for the best texture.
Frying
Frying the chicken in vegetable oil at the right temperature (350°F) is crucial for achieving that perfect golden-brown color while ensuring the chicken cooks through without burning.
Making the Hot Honey Sauce
Combining honey, hot sauce, and butter in a saucepan over low heat allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Adding red pepper flakes is optional for an extra kick.
Drizzling
Drizzling the hot honey sauce over the fried chicken immediately after cooking ensures that each piece is well coated and adds a glossy finish.
FAQ
Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?
Yes, you can use regular milk, but buttermilk adds more flavor and helps to tenderize the chicken.
How long should I fry the chicken tenderloins?
Fry each side of the chicken tenderloins for about 3-4 minutes, or until they are golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
What can I substitute for vegetable oil when frying?
You can use other high smoke point oils like canola oil, peanut oil, or sunflower oil for frying.
How can I make the hot honey sauce spicier?
You can add more hot sauce or increase the amount of red pepper flakes in the hot honey sauce to boost the heat.
Can I prepare the hot honey sauce in advance?
Yes, you can make the hot honey sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it gently before drizzling over the chicken.
Conclusion
The combination of perfectly fried chicken tenderloins and a spicy-sweet hot honey sauce creates a dish that is both satisfying and full of flavor. This simple recipe is not only easy to follow, but it can also be customized to suit your taste preferences, making it a great option for weeknight dinners or special occasions. The contrast between the crispy chicken and the sticky sauce ensures that every bite is a delight.
More recipes suggestions and combination
For a twist on this recipe, consider adding lemon zest to the flour mixture for a bright, citrusy flavor.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Pair the chicken with a side of coleslaw for a crunchy, refreshing contrast that complements the heat of the hot honey sauce.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Serve the crispy tenders in a sandwich with pickles and ranch dressing for a fun take on a classic chicken sandwich.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Try adding cayenne pepper to the flour mixture for an extra kick, and serve with blue cheese dressing on the side.
More recipes suggestions and combination
For a delicious variation, marinate the chicken in a mixture of buttermilk and your favorite spices, such as garlic powder and onion powder, before frying.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Serve the chicken tenders over a bed of rice or quinoa, drizzled with hot honey, for a hearty and filling meal option.
