Honey Butter Garlic Fried Chicken Tenders: The Ultimate Crispy, Sticky Delight
Imagine biting into a golden, double-fried chicken tender that shatters with an audible crunch, revealing juicy, flavorful meat inside. Now picture that tender draped in a glossy, sweet-savory glaze of honey, butter, and soy sauce, with a subtle kick of garlic to tie it all together. This Honey Butter Garlic Fried Chicken is not just a meal—it’s an experience that will redefine your expectations of fried chicken. Inspired by the bold flavors of Korean fried chicken (KFC, but not that KFC), this recipe delivers a perfect balance of crispy texture and sticky-sweet decadence. Whether you’re hosting a game night, craving a indulgent dinner, or just want to treat yourself, these tenders are guaranteed to steal the show.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
This dish draws inspiration from the Korean technique of double-frying, which ensures an ultra-crispy crust that stays crunchy even under a luscious glaze. The marinade infuses the chicken with subtle seasoning, while the honey-butter-soy glaze creates a flavor explosion that’s sweet, savory, and just a touch tangy. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s surprisingly simple to make at home, yet feels like a restaurant-quality treat. Plus, we’ve included tips to customize the heat level, pair it with sides, and store leftovers (if you have any!).
Ingredients (Serves 4)
For the Chicken and Marinade:
- 1 lb (450g) chicken tenders (or boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into strips)
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk (or whole milk with 1 tbsp lemon juice)
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
For the Coating:
- 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup (60g) cornstarch
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional, for a hint of smokiness)
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for a mild kick)
- Vegetable oil, for frying (about 4 cups, depending on your pan)
For the Honey Butter Garlic Glaze:
- 4 tbsp (60g) unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup (60ml) honey
- 2 tbsp soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
- 1/2 tsp sesame oil (optional, for nutty depth)
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy edge)
For Garnish (Optional):
- 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Equipment Needed
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Deep frying pan or Dutch oven
- Tongs or slotted spoon
- Wire rack over a baking sheet
- Small saucepan
- Thermometer (optional, for oil temperature)
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken tenders with kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, buttermilk, and beaten egg. Stir until the chicken is fully coated.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, ideally overnight. This marinade tenderizes the chicken and infuses it with flavor, ensuring every bite is juicy and seasoned.
Pro Tip: If you’re short on time, marinate for at least 30 minutes, but longer marination yields the best results.
Step 2: Prepare the Coating
- In a shallow dish, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. This combination creates a light, crispy coating that clings to the chicken.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting excess liquid drip off. Dredge each tender in the flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure an even coating. Shake off any excess flour and place the coated tenders on a plate.
Pro Tip: For extra crunch, let the coated chicken rest for 10 minutes before frying. This helps the coating adhere better.
Step 3: Double-Fry the Chicken
- Heat 2-3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or Dutch oven to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer for accuracy, or test the oil by dropping a small pinch of flour—it should sizzle immediately.
- Working in batches, carefully add the chicken tenders to the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 3-4 minutes per side, until lightly golden.
- Remove the tenders and place them on a wire rack to drain. Let the oil return to 350°F, then fry the tenders again for 2-3 minutes, until deep golden and crispy. This double-frying technique is the secret to that irresistible crunch.
- Transfer the fried tenders to the wire rack and season lightly with a pinch of salt while hot.
Pro Tip: Keep the first batch warm in a 200°F (95°C) oven while frying the rest.
Step 4: Make the Honey Butter Garlic Glaze
- In a small saucepan over medium-low heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until fragrant but not browned.
- Stir in the honey, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the glaze thickens slightly and becomes glossy.
- Remove from heat and set aside. The glaze should be pourable but sticky enough to coat the chicken.
Step 5: Toss and Serve
- Place the hot, crispy chicken tenders in a large mixing bowl. Pour the warm glaze over the chicken and gently toss to coat evenly. Alternatively, brush the glaze over the tenders for a lighter coating.
- Transfer the glazed tenders to a serving platter. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds, sliced green onions, and parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
- Serve immediately with your favorite sides (see suggestions below) and enjoy the symphony of crunch and stickiness!
Serving Suggestions
- Classic Pairings: Serve with pickled radishes, coleslaw, or cucumber salad to cut through the richness of the glaze.
- Side Dishes: Pair with crispy waffle fries, steamed rice, or garlic mashed potatoes for a hearty meal.
- Dipping Sauces: Offer extra glaze on the side, or try a spicy gochujang mayo or ranch for variety.
- Drinks: A cold beer, sparkling soda, or iced green tea complements the bold flavors.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Version: Add 1 tsp gochujang (Korean chili paste) or sriracha to the glaze for a fiery kick.
- Herb-Infused: Stir in 1 tsp chopped fresh thyme or rosemary to the glaze for an aromatic twist.
- Gluten-Free: Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend and ensure the soy sauce is gluten-free.
- Baked Option: For a lighter version, bake the coated tenders at 425°F (220°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, then toss with the glaze.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep the glaze separate to maintain crispiness.
- Freezer: Freeze unglazed fried tenders in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat unglazed tenders in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 8-10 minutes until crispy. Warm the glaze separately and toss just before serving.
Note: The chicken is best enjoyed fresh for maximum crunch, but reheated leftovers are still delicious!
Tips for Success
- Oil Temperature: Maintain a consistent oil temperature to avoid greasy or undercooked chicken. Too low, and the coating absorbs oil; too high, and it burns.
- Double-Frying: Don’t skip the second fry—it’s what makes the chicken extra crispy and able to hold up to the glaze.
- Glaze Timing: Toss the chicken with the glaze just before serving to preserve the crunch.
- Batch Cooking: Fry in small batches to prevent the oil temperature from dropping, which ensures even cooking.
Cultural Context
This recipe is a nod to the Korean fried chicken craze that’s taken the world by storm. Known for its thin, crispy coating and bold sauces, Korean fried chicken often features a double-frying technique that sets it apart from traditional Southern fried chicken. The honey butter glaze, popularized by Korean chains, combines the sweetness of honey with the umami of soy sauce and the richness of butter, creating a flavor profile that’s addictive and universally loved. Our version adds garlic for depth and offers customizable spice levels to suit any palate.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)
- Calories: 550-600 kcal
- Protein: 28g
- Fat: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 900mg
Note: Values vary based on portion size and frying oil absorption.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Honey Butter Garlic Fried Chicken Tenders are the ultimate comfort food, combining the satisfaction of crispy fried chicken with a sticky, sweet-savory glaze that’s impossible to resist. The double-frying technique ensures a crunch that lasts, while the glaze adds a layer of indulgence that makes every bite unforgettable. Whether you’re a fried chicken aficionado or just looking for a fun, flavorful dish to impress your guests, this recipe delivers. Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt to different tastes and dietary needs.
Ready to Try It?
Gather your ingredients, heat up that oil, and get ready to make the best fried chicken tenders of your life. Share your creations with us on social media using #HoneyButterChicken, and let us know how you customized this recipe to make it your own. Happy cooking!
