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If you’re searching for the perfect balance of flavor and health, look no further than Spicy-Sweet Hot Honey Baked Chicken Tenders. This dish is a delightful fusion of savory and sweet, boasting a tantalizing spicy kick that makes it an instant crowd-pleaser. With the rise of culinary creativity in modern kitchens, sweet and spicy flavors have surged in popularity, appearing in everything from gourmet sauces to innovative home-cooked meals. These chicken tenders perfectly encapsulate this trend, combining the comforting familiarity of tender chicken with the exciting twist of hot honey.

Hot Honey Baked Chicken Tenders

Discover the joy of Spicy-Sweet Hot Honey Baked Chicken Tenders, a perfect blend of flavor and health! This delicious dish offers a crispy texture without the guilt of frying, making it an ideal choice for family dinners or gatherings. With tender chicken coated in a spicy-sweet glaze, these tenders are sure to please everyone. Follow our step-by-step guide to create this mouthwatering recipe and elevate your dinner table with a flavorful twist!

Ingredients
  

1 pound chicken tenderloins

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon paprika

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)

2 large eggs

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

1 tablespoon honey (for the egg wash)

1 cup panko bread crumbs

½ cup hot honey (store-bought or homemade)

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

    Prepare Breading Station: In a shallow dish, combine flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. In another bowl, whisk together eggs, Dijon mustard, and honey until well combined. Place panko breadcrumbs in a third shallow dish.

      Coat Chicken: Dip each chicken tender into the flour mixture, shaking off the excess. Then, dunk it in the egg mixture and finally coat it with panko breadcrumbs, pressing to ensure it sticks well.

        Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet. Spray them lightly with cooking spray or drizzle with olive oil for extra crispiness.

          Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 15–20 minutes, or until the tenders are golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

            Prepare Hot Honey: While the chicken is baking, prepare your hot honey if making homemade. Combine ½ cup honey with 1-2 teaspoons of cayenne pepper (or your preferred hot sauce) in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir until warmed and fully combined. This can be made ahead of time and drizzled on chicken after baking.

              Serve: Once the tenders are baked, remove them from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. Drizzle hot honey generously over the chicken tenders and garnish with chopped parsley.

                Enjoy: Serve these delicious hot honey baked chicken tenders with your favorite dipping sauces or alongside a fresh salad!

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 35 minutes | 4 servings