1.5 lbs chicken tenderloins or boneless chicken breasts, cut into strips
2 cups buttermilk
2 tsp hot sauce (optional but recommended)
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup cornstarch
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Honey Butter Glaze:
1/3 cup honey
2 tbsp unsalted butter
1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a kick)
Pinch of salt
For the Creamy Dipping Sauce:
1/2 cup mayonnaise
2 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tbsp honey
1 tsp apple cider vinegar
Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Marinate the Chicken:
Combine chicken tenders, buttermilk, and hot sauce in a bowl.
Cover and refrigerate for 1 hour to overnight (the longer, the juicier).
2. Prepare the Breading:
In a separate large bowl, mix flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, salt, and pepper.
3. Bread the Chicken:
Remove chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off.
Coat each strip in the seasoned flour mixture. Press down to make sure it adheres well.
For extra crunch, double dip: back into the buttermilk, then into the flour again.
4. Fry the Chicken:
Heat oil in a heavy skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C).
Fry chicken tenders in batches for 5–7 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
Drain on a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate.
5. Make the Honey Butter Glaze:
In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.
Add honey, red pepper flakes, and a pinch of salt.
Stir well and keep warm.
6. Make the Dipping Sauce:
In a bowl, whisk together mayo, Dijon, honey, vinegar, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
Refrigerate until ready to serve.
7. Glaze the Chicken:
Once fried, drizzle or brush the chicken tenders with warm honey butter glaze.
Serve immediately with dipping sauce.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve with fries, mashed potatoes, or coleslaw.
Perfect for a party platter, game day, or family dinner.
Pro Tips:
Cornstarch in the breading = crispier crunch!
Don’t overcrowd the pan while frying.
Want it spicy? Add extra hot sauce to the marinade or cayenne to the flour.
Benefits:
High protein, family-friendly
Easy to prep ahead
Better than fast food—because it’s homemade!
Conclusion:
This is next-level chicken—crispy outside, juicy inside, kissed with sweet and spicy honey butter, and dunked in creamy sauce. Your plate will be empty in minutes.