Hot Honey Garlic Tenders (Sweet, Spicy & Crispy Oven-Baked Recipe)
Crispy, sticky, and full of flavor, these Hot Honey Garlic Tenders are baked to perfection
If you’re craving the perfect balance of crunch, heat, and sweetness, these Hot Honey Garlic Tenders will become your new favorite meal. This recipe takes everything people love about fried chicken and transforms it into a lighter, oven-baked version that’s just as crispy and flavorful.
Each tender is coated in crushed cornflakes for that golden crunch, then tossed in a sticky, spicy honey garlic glaze that hits all the right notes. The result is tender, juicy chicken surrounded by a crisp coating and drenched in a sauce that’s smoky, garlicky, and slightly sweet.
Unlike deep-fried versions, these tenders are baked in the oven, which means less oil and easier cleanup, all while maintaining that signature crisp texture. They’re perfect for weeknight dinners, casual get-togethers, or even meal prep. Serve them as the main course or as irresistible finger food at your next party.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy and oven-baked instead of fried
- Sweet and spicy glaze made with honey, garlic, and sriracha
- Simple ingredients and easy preparation
- Perfect for both dinner and entertaining
- Optional creamy gouda dip for an extra indulgent finish
How to Make Hot Honey Garlic Tenders
Tips for the Best Results
- Use fresh garlic for a strong and aromatic sauce.
- Crush cornflakes finely for even coating and maximum crispiness.
- Take the chicken out as soon as it turns golden to keep it juicy.
- Adjust sriracha for your preferred level of heat.
- Double the sauce if you want extra glaze for drizzling or dipping.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these Hot Honey Garlic Tenders with:
- Creamy coleslaw or potato salad
- Steamed rice or roasted potatoes
- A crisp cucumber or green salad
- An extra drizzle of honey or sriracha for added flavor
Optional Cheesy Dip
Add a touch of indulgence with this quick gouda dip. Melt shredded gouda into soy cream or heavy cream with a pinch of salt and parsley. The creamy, savory flavor perfectly complements the sweetness and spice of the tenders.
FAQs About Hot Honey Garlic Tenders
Yes. Simply use gluten-free cornflakes and soy sauce alternatives like tamari.
They have a moderate level of spice. Add more or less sriracha to adjust the heat.
Yes. Bake the tenders and store them in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer before serving.
Chicken breast gives a tender, lean result, while chicken thighs provide extra juiciness.
Yes. Air fry until golden and cooked through for even more crispiness.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
- Reheat in the oven or air fryer to bring back the crunch.
- Freeze cooked tenders without sauce for up to one month. Reheat and toss in fresh sauce before serving.
Final Thoughts
Hot Honey Garlic Tenders are a perfect example of how a simple combination of ingredients can create something extraordinary. The coating is crisp, the chicken inside is juicy, and the sauce is the perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and garlicky richness. Every bite delivers a satisfying contrast of textures and flavors that make this recipe unforgettable.
What makes this recipe special is its versatility and approachability. It’s impressive enough to serve to guests but simple enough for a quick family dinner. The baking method gives you a healthier option without sacrificing the satisfying crunch or flavor that makes fried tenders so addictive.
If you’ve been searching for a recipe that’s simple but spectacular, Hot Honey Garlic Tenders deserve a permanent spot in your rotation. Once you try them, you’ll understand why they’ve become such a favorite for so many cooks.
If you loved this recipe, visit Aylin Cooks for more delicious, approachable recipes made for home cooks who want big flavor without the stress. From easy weeknight dinners to creative comfort food, you’ll find inspiration to make every meal memorable.
Hot Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prep the oven and chicken: Preheat oven to 200°C (392°F) and season chicken with the spice mix.
- Make the marinade: In a bowl, whisk eggs + sriracha.
- Coat the chicken: Dip chicken into the egg mix, then coat with crushed cornflakes.
- Bake the tenders: Bake on a tray for 20–25 min (until golden and cooked through).
- Prepare the sauce: Melt butter, sauté garlic, then add soy sauce, paprika, honey, sriracha & water. Let it simmer until slightly thick.
- Toss the tenders: Coat the crispy tenders in the hot honey garlic sauce.
- Make the cheesy dip (optional): Melt gouda with soy cream, add salt and parsley, mix until creamy.