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Crispy Hot Honey Ranch Chicken Tenders

Crispy Hot Honey Ranch Chicken Tenders

Crispy Hot Honey Ranch Chicken Tenders combine a crunchy breaded coating with the perfect balance of sweet, spicy hot honey and tangy ranch seasoning, delivering an irresistible appetizer or main dish that’s easy to prepare and loved by both kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 1 lb fresh chicken tenders

Breading Mixture

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon ranch seasoning mix
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs

Binding

  • 2 large eggs, whisked

Seasoning

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For Frying

  • Vegetable oil, for frying (enough to fill 2 inches in pan)

Topping

  • Hot honey, warmed for drizzling

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels to ensure the coating sticks well. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
  2. Set Up Breading Stations: In one bowl, whisk the eggs. In a second bowl, combine the flour, ranch seasoning mix, and salt. In a third bowl, place the panko breadcrumbs.
  3. Coat the Chicken: Dip each chicken tender first into the seasoned flour mixture, then into the egg, and finally press into the panko breadcrumbs to form a thick, even crust.
  4. Fry to Crispy Golden: Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Fry the coated tenders in batches for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
  5. Drizzle with Hot Honey: Warm the hot honey slightly to make it pourable, then generously drizzle over the crispy chicken tenders for a sticky, flavorful glaze.

Notes

  • Patting your chicken dry ensures the coating adheres and crisps perfectly.
  • Maintain oil temperature at 350°F-360°F to avoid soggy or burnt tenders.
  • Fry in small batches to keep oil temperature consistent and get an even golden crust.
  • Let the tenders rest on a wire rack briefly before serving to maintain crispiness.
  • Customize hot honey by infusing with fresh chili or garlic for extra flavor punch.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken tenders, crispy chicken, hot honey chicken, ranch chicken tenders, spicy chicken, appetizer, snack