There’s something truly tempting about the sound of chicken sizzling in the oven, each tender piece promising a burst of flavor. That’s the magic of these Honey Sriracha Chicken Tenders Oven Baked—a delightful fusion that combines the sweet allure of honey with the fiery kick of sriracha. Whether you’re winding down after a hectic day or planning a gathering with friends, these tenders are the answer to your cravings. Imagine serving up a crispy, golden-brown dish that not only satisfies your hunger but also impresses your guests with its mouthwatering aroma and irresistible taste.
Best of all, this recipe keeps it light by opting for baking, so you can enjoy the crunch and flavor without the heaviness of frying. Join me in elevating your weeknight dinners or party snacks with this easy-to-make treat that’s as delightful as it is versatile. Let’s get cooking!
Why are Honey Sriracha Chicken Tenders Oven Baked irresistible?
Unmatched flavor: The sweet and spicy combination of honey and sriracha creates a flavor explosion that no one can resist.
Guilt-free indulgence: Enjoy the crispiness without the extra calories—these tenders are oven-baked, making them a healthier choice.
Customizable twists: Feel free to experiment with different hot sauces or add fresh herbs to personalize your recipe.
Easy preparation: With straightforward steps and minimal cleanup, these tenders are perfect for busy weeknights.
Crowd-pleaser: Serve them at gatherings, and watch as everyone raves about this delicious dish—ideal for all ages!
Elevate your family dinners or potlucks with this fun recipe that brings a gourmet touch to homemade meals.
Honey Sriracha Chicken Tenders Ingredients
• Explore the essential components for your Honey Sriracha Chicken Tenders Oven Baked!
For the Chicken
- Chicken Tenders – The heart of the dish; opt for tenderloins or cut chicken breasts into strips for even cooking.
For the Sauce
- Honey (1/4 cup) – A must for that sweet glaze; maple syrup works as a vegan alternative.
- Sriracha Sauce (2 tablespoons) – Adds the signature heat; feel free to adjust based on your spice preference.
- Soy Sauce (1 tablespoon) – Strengthens the umami flavor; make sure to choose a gluten-free version if needed.
- Garlic Powder (1 teaspoon) – Lends aromatic flavor; fresh minced garlic can be a great substitute.
For the Coating
- All-purpose Flour (1/4 cup) – Ensures a crispy texture; use gluten-free flour to accommodate dietary needs.
- Egg (1, beaten) – Acts as a binding agent for the crispy coating; consider using flaxseed meal mixed with water for a vegan option.
- Breadcrumbs (1/2 cup) – Forms the crunchy exterior; panko breadcrumbs are preferred for an extra crunch.
Seasoning
- Salt (1 teaspoon) – Enhances the overall flavor; adjust according to your taste and dietary restrictions.
- Black Pepper (1/2 teaspoon) – Provides a mild heat that complements the other flavors.
Now that you have your ingredients ready, it’s time to dive in and create these delightful Honey Sriracha Chicken Tenders!
How to Make Honey Sriracha Chicken Tenders Oven Baked
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Preheat oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
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Mix the sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together honey, sriracha, soy sauce, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth. This vibrant sauce will coat your chicken tenders beautifully.
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Set up dredging station: Prepare three shallow bowls for your dredging station; fill one with flour, the second with the beaten egg, and the third with breadcrumbs. This station will make coating the tenders a breeze.
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Coat the chicken: Take each chicken tender and first coat it in flour, shaking off the excess. Next, dip it into the beaten egg, and finally roll it in the breadcrumbs, ensuring every piece is well-coated.
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Arrange on baking sheet: Lay the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each piece for even cooking. Brush each tender with the honey sriracha sauce for added flavor.
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Bake to perfection: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the coating turns golden brown and crispy.
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Rest before serving: Once baked, allow the chicken tenders to rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute and enhances the flavor!
Optional: Serve with a side of fresh veggies or your favorite dipping sauce for an extra touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Honey Sriracha Chicken Tenders Oven Baked?
Looking for the perfect side dishes to complement your crispy chicken tenders? Here are some delightful options to elevate your meal experience.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The smooth texture and buttery flavor of mashed potatoes provide a comforting balance to the spicy chicken.
- Fresh Garden Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette brings brightness and freshness, cutting through the richness of the tenders.
- Steamed Broccoli: This vibrant green veggie adds a nutritious crunch that pairs wonderfully with the tenders while adding a pop of color to your plate.
- Sweet Potato Fries: For a sweet contrast, serve up some crispy sweet potato fries, enhancing the sweet notes of the honey glaze.
- Quinoa Pilaf: A nutty quinoa mix can add a hearty, chewy element to your meal, anchoring the tender’s flavors beautifully.
- Fruit Salsa: A fresh salsa made with mango or pineapple introduces a vibrant tropical flair, balancing the heat of the sriracha.
- Coleslaw: A crunchy, tangy coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch that complements the crispy tenders, making every bite more exciting.
- Cold Beverage: Pair with a crisp lager or iced tea; both refreshing choices that enhance the meal, washing down the spicy notes perfectly.
- Chocolate Chip Cookies: Wrap up your meal with warm, gooey cookies for a delightful sweet ending; they wonderfully contrast the spiced chicken flavors.
- Lemon Sorbet: A light and refreshing sorbet can cleanse the palate after the spicy tenders, refreshing you before dessert!
Make Ahead Options
These Honey Sriracha Chicken Tenders Oven Baked are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken in the honey sriracha sauce for up to 24 hours in advance to infuse flavor, ensuring they maintain that delicious taste. Additionally, you can coat the chicken tenders and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days before baking. When you’re ready to serve, simply preheat the oven, arrange the tenders on a baking sheet, brush with extra sauce, and bake until golden and crispy. This approach not only saves time during busy weeknights but also keeps your tenders just as delightful and flavorful!
Expert Tips for Honey Sriracha Chicken Tenders
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Coating Consistency: Ensure the coating sticks by shaking off excess flour before dipping in the egg wash—this step prevents clumping.
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Arrange Properly: Avoid overcrowding on the baking sheet to ensure each tender cooks evenly and achieves that desirable crunch.
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Use Cooking Spray: Lightly spray the tenders with cooking spray before baking to maximize browning and enhance the crispy texture of your Honey Sriracha Chicken Tenders Oven Baked.
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Flavorful Marinade: For deeper flavor, consider marinating the chicken in the honey sriracha sauce for 30 minutes prior to coating.
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Breadcrumb Variety: Experiment with different breadcrumb types or mix in some grated parmesan for added depth and flavor in your chicken tenders.
How to Store and Freeze Honey Sriracha Chicken Tenders
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Room Temperature: Enjoy your Honey Sriracha Chicken Tenders right after baking for the best flavor and crunch. If left out, consume within 2 hours to ensure freshness.
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Fridge: Store leftover tenders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven for 10-15 minutes to restore their crispiness.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked tenders in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag or container for up to 2 months.
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Reheating: Always reheat your chicken tenders in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes. This helps maintain that delicious crunch and ensures they’re heated through.
Honey Sriracha Chicken Tenders Oven Baked Variations
Feel free to play around with these ideas to make this delicious recipe even more uniquely yours!
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs to accommodate dietary needs without sacrificing crispiness.
- Vegan Twist: Substitute chicken with crispy tofu or chickpea tenders for a plant-based option that’s just as delightful.
- Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the breadcrumb mix for an aromatic flavor that elevates each bite.
- Citrus Zest: Incorporate lime or orange zest into the sauce for a refreshing citrus kick that brightens the dish beautifully.
- Sweet Heat: Mix in a tablespoon of pineapple or mango puree with the honey sriracha sauce for a fruity, sweet flavor explosion.
- Extra Crunch: Swap out regular breadcrumbs for crushed cornflakes for an ultra-crispy texture that’s sure to impress.
- Smoky Flavor: Add a dash of smoked paprika to the coating for an unexpected depth of flavor that enhances the spicy honey glaze.
- Heat Lovers: Spice it up even more by mixing in some cayenne pepper or using extra sriracha in the sauce for an added kick!
Honey Sriracha Chicken Tenders Oven Baked Recipe FAQs
What kind of chicken should I use for the Honey Sriracha Chicken Tenders?
Absolutely! You can use tenderloins or chicken breasts cut into strips to ensure even cooking. Chicken tenders are preferred for their tender texture, but I often make this recipe with breasts for a leaner option.
How should I store leftover Honey Sriracha Chicken Tenders?
Store your leftover tenders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to bring back that crispy texture!
Can I freeze Honey Sriracha Chicken Tenders?
Yes, you can! First, freeze the cooked tenders in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once they’re frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer bag or container for up to 2 months. To reheat, pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes. This helps maintain their gloriously crispy coating.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Very! If you’re catering to gluten-free diets, ensure you use gluten-free soy sauce and flour. Also, the egg serves as a binding agent; for a vegan alternative, consider mixing 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 2.5 tablespoons of water and letting it sit for 5 minutes until it thickens.
What can I do if the coating isn’t sticking well to the chicken?
No worries—it’s a common hiccup! Make sure to shake off the excess flour before dipping the chicken into the egg wash. This step is key to helping the breadcrumbs adhere properly. If you want to add more flavor, consider marinating your chicken in the honey sriracha sauce for about 30 minutes prior to coating.
Crispy Honey Sriracha Chicken Tenders Oven Baked for Flavor Fans
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together honey, sriracha, soy sauce, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
- Prepare three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten egg, and one with breadcrumbs.
- Coat each chicken tender in flour, dip into beaten egg, then roll in breadcrumbs.
- Place coated tenders on the baking sheet and brush with honey sriracha sauce.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F and coating is golden brown.
- Allow tenders to rest for a few minutes before serving.