Honey Chipotle Chicken Tenders Recipe
Introduction
Welcome to this delicious and easy-to-make Honey Chipotle Chicken Tenders recipe. If you’re looking for a flavorful and satisfying meal that the whole family will love, then you’ve come to the right place. These crispy chicken tenders are coated in a sweet and spicy honey chipotle sauce that will leave your taste buds craving for more. Whether you’re planning a game night, a party, or simply want to enjoy a tasty dinner, this recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
For this recipe, you will need the following ingredients:
– 1 pound of chicken tenders
– 1 cup of all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon of salt
– 1 teaspoon of paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon of dried oregano
– 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 1/2 cup of honey
– 2 tablespoons of chipotle in adobo sauce, minced
– 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon of lime juice
– 1 tablespoon of cornstarch
– 1/4 cup of water
Steps
Follow these simple steps to make delicious Honey Chipotle Chicken Tenders:
1. In a shallow dish, combine the flour, salt, paprika, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, and cayenne pepper. Mix well.
2. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or deep fryer over medium-high heat.
3. Dip each chicken tender into the flour mixture, coating it evenly on all sides.
4. Carefully place the coated chicken tenders into the hot oil and fry for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
5. While the chicken is frying, prepare the honey chipotle sauce. In a small saucepan, combine the honey, minced chipotle in adobo sauce, soy sauce, and lime juice. Cook over medium heat until the mixture comes to a simmer.
6. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water until the cornstarch is fully dissolved.
7. Slowly pour the cornstarch mixture into the simmering honey chipotle sauce, stirring constantly. Continue to cook for another 1-2 minutes, or until the sauce thickens.
8. Once the chicken tenders are cooked, remove them from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
9. Drizzle the honey chipotle sauce over the cooked chicken tenders, or serve it on the side as a dipping sauce.
10. Serve the Honey Chipotle Chicken Tenders hot and enjoy!
Variations
Here are a few variations you can try to customize this recipe:
– For a spicier kick, add an extra teaspoon of chipotle in adobo sauce to the honey chipotle sauce.
– If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of chipotle in adobo sauce or omit it altogether.
– Add a tablespoon of honey to the flour mixture for an extra touch of sweetness.
– Substitute the chicken tenders with boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs if desired.
Tips
Here are some helpful tips to ensure your Honey Chipotle Chicken Tenders turn out perfect:
– Make sure the vegetable oil is hot enough before frying the chicken tenders. You can test the temperature by dropping a small piece of bread into the oil – if it sizzles and turns golden brown within a few seconds, it’s ready.
– Use one hand for dipping the chicken tenders into the flour mixture and the other hand for coating them in the sauce. This will prevent the coatings from getting too clumpy or sticky.
– If you prefer a gluten-free version, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
– Serve the Honey Chipotle Chicken Tenders with your favorite side dishes, such as French fries, coleslaw, or a fresh green salad.
Conclusion
In conclusion, this Honey Chipotle Chicken Tenders recipe is a fantastic choice for anyone who loves a combination of sweet and spicy flavors. The crispy chicken tenders coated in the delicious honey chipotle sauce are incredibly addictive and will leave you wanting more. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, main course, or party snack, these chicken tenders are sure to be a hit. Give this recipe a try and impress your family and friends with this mouthwatering dish!
FAQs
1. Can I bake the chicken tenders instead of frying them?
Yes, you can bake the chicken tenders in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Make sure to flip them halfway through the cooking time for even browning.
2. How can I store the leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the chicken tenders on a baking sheet and warm them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes, or until heated through.
3. Can I freeze the chicken tenders?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken tenders for up to 3 months. Allow them to cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. To reheat, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and then follow the reheating instructions mentioned above.
