Honey BBQ Chicken Tenders

Honey BBQ Chicken Tenders are the perfect combination of crispy, juicy chicken and a sticky, sweet-and-smoky barbecue glaze. Whether baked, fried, or air-fried, these tenders are a family-friendly favorite that makes a great appetizer, party food, or easy dinner option.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy on the outside, tender and juicy on the inside
• Glazed in a flavorful, homemade honey BBQ sauce
• Kid-approved and adult-loved
• Easy to make using pantry staples
• Can be baked, air-fried, or deep-fried
• Perfect for parties, game day, or a fun dinner
• Pairs well with a variety of dipping sauces
• Customizable for spice or flavor preference
• Freezer-friendly for future meals
• A delicious homemade alternative to takeout

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the chicken tenders

• Chicken tenders or chicken breasts cut into strips
• Buttermilk (for marinating)
• All-purpose flour
• Cornstarch (for extra crispness)
• Paprika
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Salt and pepper
• Oil (for frying) or cooking spray (for air frying or baking)

For the honey BBQ sauce

• BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
• Honey
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Apple cider vinegar (optional, for tang)
• Hot sauce (optional, for spice)

Directions

1. Marinate chicken: Place chicken tenders in buttermilk and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (up to 4 hours) to tenderize and add flavor.
2. Set up breading station: In a shallow bowl, mix flour, cornstarch, and seasonings (paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper).
3. Coat the chicken: Remove chicken from buttermilk and dredge in the flour mixture until fully coated. Shake off excess.
4. Cook the tenders:
   • Frying: Heat oil in a deep pan to 350°F and fry chicken in batches for 5–7 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
   • Baking: Preheat oven to 400°F. Place tenders on a wire rack set over a baking sheet. Spray with oil and bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway.
   • Air frying: Preheat air fryer to 375°F. Spray tenders with oil and cook for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
5. Make the sauce: In a saucepan, heat BBQ sauce, honey, garlic powder, onion powder, and optional vinegar or hot sauce. Simmer for 3–5 minutes until slightly thickened.
6. Glaze: Toss cooked chicken tenders in the honey BBQ sauce or brush generously on top.
7. Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve with extra sauce for dipping.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4–6
• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Marinating time: 30 minutes (optional but recommended)
• Cook time: 20 minutes
• Total time: ~1 hour (including marinating)

Variations

• Spicy version: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the BBQ glaze
• Extra crispy: Double dip the chicken in buttermilk and flour for a thicker crust
• Cheesy coating: Mix grated Parmesan into the flour mixture
• Lighter version: Use air fryer or bake instead of frying
• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free flour and make sure the BBQ sauce is gluten-free

Storage/reheating

• Storage: Refrigerate leftover tenders in an airtight container for up to 3 days
• Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F oven or air fryer until warm and crispy (avoid microwave for best texture)
• Freezing: Freeze cooked tenders before adding sauce; reheat and glaze when ready to serve

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of tenders?

Yes, slice chicken breasts into strips about 1 inch wide for similar results.

Do I have to marinate the chicken in buttermilk?

No, but it makes the chicken more tender and flavorful.

Can I make the tenders ahead of time?

Yes, cook and store them without sauce. Reheat and toss in warm sauce just before serving.

What’s the best BBQ sauce to use?

Any thick, smoky BBQ sauce works well. Choose your favorite brand or homemade version.

Can I make this recipe without frying?

Yes! You can bake or air-fry the tenders and still get great results.

How do I keep the tenders crispy after glazing?

Lightly glaze the tenders and briefly broil them to caramelize and set the sauce.

Can I use pre-cooked frozen tenders?

Yes, warm them according to package directions and toss with the homemade sauce.

What dipping sauces go well with these?

Ranch, honey mustard, extra BBQ sauce, or a spicy mayo are all great options.

Is this recipe spicy?

Not by default, but you can make it spicy by adding hot sauce or cayenne pepper.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely—just be sure to cook in batches if frying or air frying.

Conclusion

Honey BBQ Chicken Tenders are a delicious blend of crispy texture and sweet, tangy flavor. Whether you’re feeding a hungry crowd or just craving something indulgent, these tenders are easy to make and always satisfying. Try them once, and they’ll quickly become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.

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