Nashville Hot Honey Chicken Tenders (Oven-Baked): Crispy Heat Meets Sweet Comfort in Every Bite

Nashville Hot Honey Chicken Tenders (Oven-Baked) are the ultimate fusion of bold heat, crunchy texture, and a touch of sticky sweetness—all without the mess of frying. This oven-baked version offers the same Southern charm and spicy bite of traditional Nashville hot chicken, but in a lighter, weeknight-friendly form.

These tenders are soaked in a tangy buttermilk marinade that keeps them juicy and flavorful, then coated in a spiced flour mix and baked until golden and crisp. The final flourish is a luscious hot honey glaze that melts into the coating, delivering a fiery-sweet flavor punch that hits all the right notes.

Whether you’re feeding a hungry crowd or just in the mood for something crave-worthy and comforting, these tenders are easy to prepare and impossible to resist.

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Ingredients Overview

Chicken Tenders: This cut is ideal for quick, even cooking and remains tender throughout the baking process. If unavailable, simply slice chicken breasts into uniform strips.

Buttermilk: The acid in buttermilk tenderizes the meat and adds subtle tang. It also helps the breading cling to the chicken. In a pinch, mix a cup of milk with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice.

Hot Sauce: This provides the signature heat. It’s used both in the marinade and the glaze, layering flavor throughout. Choose a hot sauce with good flavor balance, like Frank’s or Louisiana-style options.

Flour + Cornstarch: A combination that delivers a crispy finish. Flour offers a base, while cornstarch creates a lighter, crackly texture perfect for oven baking.

Seasonings (Paprika, Garlic Powder, Cayenne, Salt, Pepper): These spices create a bold flavor profile. Cayenne brings heat, while garlic and paprika enhance the depth of the coating and glaze.

Eggs: They help bind the breading to the chicken, creating a thick, crunchy outer layer that holds up under the glaze.

Panko Breadcrumbs (Optional): For extra crunch, panko breadcrumbs are unbeatable. Their airy texture gives a crispness that mimics fried chicken.

Honey: The foundation of the glaze. Honey balances the heat with smooth sweetness and adds a sticky, glossy finish.

Butter: Rich and savory, it rounds out the glaze and helps it coat each tender evenly.

Apple Cider Vinegar: Adds brightness to the glaze, balancing the spicy and sweet components.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl or resealable bag, mix chicken tenders with buttermilk and a couple tablespoons of hot sauce. Cover and refrigerate for at least one hour to tenderize and flavor the meat.

2. Preheat the Oven: Heat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking tray with parchment or foil, and place a wire rack on top to help the tenders bake evenly and stay crispy.

3. Prepare the Coating: Combine the flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne in a shallow bowl. In another bowl, beat the eggs. Place panko breadcrumbs in a third bowl if using.

4. Bread the Chicken: Remove tenders from the marinade, shaking off the excess. Dredge in the seasoned flour mix, dip in the egg, then press into the panko breadcrumbs if desired. Lay each piece on the wire rack.

5. Bake Until Crisp: Spray the tops of the tenders lightly with oil or cooking spray. Bake for 18 to 22 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the crust is golden and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

6. Make the Hot Honey Glaze: In a small saucepan, melt the butter. Stir in honey, hot sauce, apple cider vinegar, paprika, and cayenne. Let the mixture simmer for a few minutes until smooth and slightly thickened.

7. Glaze the Tenders: As soon as the tenders come out of the oven, brush them generously with the hot honey glaze. Let them sit for a minute to soak in the flavor before serving.

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Tips, Variations & Substitutions

• Turn Up the Heat: For a bolder bite, increase the cayenne or try a spicier hot sauce like habanero or ghost pepper-based varieties.

• Milder Option: Cut the cayenne in half and use a mild hot sauce to keep things family-friendly.

• No Buttermilk? Combine 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar and let it rest for 5 minutes.

• Gluten-Free Swap: Use a gluten-free flour blend and replace panko with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed rice cereal.

• Serve as Sandwiches: Add tenders to brioche buns with pickles and slaw for a hot honey chicken sandwich.

• Add Extra Crunch: Double coat the tenders by repeating the flour and egg dip for an ultra-crispy crust.

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Serving Ideas & Occasions

These Nashville-inspired tenders are the perfect centerpiece for a weeknight dinner or casual get-together. Serve them with creamy coleslaw, potato wedges, or cornbread for a comforting Southern-style meal.

For lighter fare, pair them with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables. They also make fantastic party bites—serve with toothpicks and extra glaze for dipping.

Cold drinks like lemonade, sweet tea, or a light beer are excellent companions, offering relief from the heat and enhancing the flavor experience.

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Nutritional & Health Notes

These baked tenders offer a more balanced option compared to traditional fried versions. Baking uses significantly less oil, helping reduce fat and calories without compromising texture.

Lean chicken tenderloins are naturally high in protein and low in saturated fat. The honey glaze, while sweet, is made with simple ingredients and adds flavor without the need for heavy sauces.

If you’re watching your carbs or calories, skip the panko or opt for a lighter coating. Serve with nutrient-dense sides like steamed broccoli or a spinach salad for a well-rounded meal.

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FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of tenders?
Yes, simply slice boneless chicken breasts into uniform strips so they cook evenly and resemble classic tenders.

How spicy are these tenders?
They have a noticeable kick, but the honey tempers the heat. You can adjust the spice level by changing the amount of cayenne or hot sauce.

Do I need a wire rack for baking?
Using a rack helps air circulate under the tenders, allowing them to crisp up all around. If you don’t have one, flip the tenders halfway through and bake slightly longer.

Can I prepare these ahead of time?
Definitely. Cook the tenders and store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 375°F oven for best texture. Add the glaze just before serving.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes. Use a dairy-free milk alternative (like almond or soy) with vinegar for the marinade, and substitute vegan butter in the glaze.

Is this recipe air fryer-friendly?
It is! Cook breaded tenders in an air fryer at 400°F for 12–14 minutes, turning once. They’ll get crispy without needing much oil.

How should I store and reheat leftovers?
Store cooled tenders in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to keep them crispy. Avoid microwaving if possible.

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