What do you get when you combine crispy cornflake-coated chicken with a sticky, spicy-sweet glaze? The kind of chicken tenders that could make a fast-food chain jealous. These fried hot honey BBQ tenders are so good, you’ll want to save the last one for yourself—if you can resist licking the plate first!

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1 ½ pounds chicken tenders
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Coating:

• 2 cups crushed cornflakes
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt

For the Sauce:

• ½ cup BBQ sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons sriracha (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon melted butter
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

For Frying:

• Vegetable oil (enough to fill a skillet about 1 inch deep)

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken:
   • Combine the buttermilk, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper in a mixing bowl.
   • Add the chicken tenders, ensuring they’re fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours for maximum flavor and tenderness.
2. Prepare the Coating:
   • Crush the cornflakes into coarse crumbs using a rolling pin or food processor.
   • Mix them in a shallow dish with the flour, cayenne pepper, onion powder, paprika, and salt. Stir to combine evenly.
3. Coat the Chicken:
   • Remove the chicken tenders from the buttermilk marinade, letting the excess drip off.
   • Press each piece firmly into the cornflake mixture, coating evenly on all sides.
   • Place the coated tenders on a plate or tray while you prepare to fry.
4. Fry the Chicken:
   • Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat to 350°F (175°C).
   • Carefully add the chicken tenders in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
   • Fry each tender for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Remove to a wire rack to drain any excess oil.
5. Make the Sauce:
   • In a small saucepan over low heat, combine BBQ sauce, honey, sriracha, melted butter, and garlic powder.
   • Stir until smooth and warmed through, then set aside. Adjust sweetness or spiciness to your taste.
6. Coat the Tenders:
   • Place the fried chicken tenders in a large bowl.
   • Pour the warm sauce over them and gently toss until each piece is fully coated.
7. Serve:
   • Arrange on a platter and serve hot.
   • Garnish with parsley, sesame seeds, or a drizzle of extra honey if desired.
   • Pair with coleslaw, fries, or pickles for a satisfying meal.