0 Shares

When the craving for something crispy yet comforting hits, these Honey Sriracha Chicken Tenders Oven Baked come to the rescue! The first time I whipped up this recipe, the mouthwatering aroma of honey mingling with the kick of sriracha wafted through my kitchen, instantly transforming my ordinary evening into a flavor-packed adventure. Perfectly baked, these tenders offer a delightful crunch that rivals any fast food option—without the guilt!

Not only do these tasty bites strike the perfect balance between sweet and spicy, but they are also a healthier choice, making it easy to satisfy your hunger while steering clear of greasy alternatives. Whether you’re prepping for a cozy family dinner or hosting friends for game night, these tenders are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Plus, they’re easily customizable to suit your spice tolerance and dietary needs—yes, gluten-free friends, I’ve got you covered! Trust me, once you try this irresistible recipe, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it.

Why will you love Honey Sriracha Chicken Tenders Oven Baked?

Crispy Perfection: Each bite delivers a crunch that satisfies, thanks to a crunchy breadcrumb coating that rivals any fried option.
Balanced Flavors: The sweet and spicy blend of honey and sriracha creates an unforgettable taste sensation that keeps everyone coming back for more.
Healthy Alternative: Oven-baked means less grease and guilt, making these tenders a perfect choice for a health-conscious meal.
Customizable: Easy to adjust spice levels and ingredients, making it a versatile recipe for all taste preferences.
All-in-One Delight: Perfect for family dinners or entertaining, these tenders are sure to impress your guests while being a breeze to prepare.
Elevate your next meal with these delectable Honey Sriracha Chicken Tenders Oven Baked!

Honey Sriracha Chicken Tenders Ingredients

• Get ready to create a flavor explosion in your kitchen!

For the Chicken Tenders

Chicken Tenders – The main protein source, ensure they are fresh for best results.

For the Sauce

Honey – Adds a delightful sweetness; try maple syrup for a vegan alternative.
Sriracha Sauce – Provides that spicy kick; adjust the amount to match your desired heat level.
Soy Sauce – Boosts umami flavor; opt for tamari to keep it gluten-free.
Garlic Powder – Adds depth; feel free to substitute with fresh garlic if you prefer.
Salt & Black Pepper – Enhances taste; kosher salt gives better texture.

For Coating the Tenders

All-Purpose Flour – Acts as a coating base; use gluten-free flour if required.
Egg – Binds the coating; a flax egg works for vegans.
Breadcrumbs – Creates that irresistible crunch; panko can give extra crispiness.

Dive into this delicious recipe for Honey Sriracha Chicken Tenders Oven Baked and watch your family come back for seconds!

How to Make Honey Sriracha Chicken Tenders Oven Baked

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper. This step ensures your tenders bake evenly and don’t stick.
Mix the sauce by combining honey, sriracha, soy sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl. Whisk it until smooth to create a delicious glaze that perfectly balances sweetness and spice.
Set Up a dredging station with three shallow bowls—one for flour, one for the beaten egg, and one for breadcrumbs. This organized approach makes coating the chicken tenders a breeze.
Dredge each chicken tender, first in the flour, then in the egg, and finally coat them well in breadcrumbs. This triple-layer ensures a crunchy texture that everyone loves.
Arrange the coated chicken tenders on the baking sheet, making sure they’re not overcrowded. Brush them lightly with the honey sriracha sauce to add flavor and a beautiful glaze as they bake.
Bake for 20-25 minutes until they’re golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This is key for perfectly cooked, juicy tenders.
Cool them briefly on the baking sheet before serving. A minute or two helps them set up and retain their crunch.

Optional: Serve with fresh veggies or a zesty dipping sauce for an extra flavor boost.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Honey Sriracha Chicken Tenders Oven Baked?

Round out your meal with delightful sides that enhance the experience of these sweet and spicy chicken tenders.

Creamy Coleslaw: The cool, crisp vegetables provide a refreshing contrast, balancing the heat of the tenders perfectly. A tangy dressing adds extra zing.
Garlic Parmesan Roasted Broccoli: These roasted veggies bring a nutty flavor and crunch that complements the crispy chicken while adding a nutritious element to your plate.
Fluffy Jasmine Rice: The light, fragrant rice soaks up extra sauce and offers a subtle backdrop, allowing the honey sriracha flavors to flourish in each bite.
Sweet Potato Fries: Their natural sweetness and crispy texture make the perfect sidekick to the tenders, creating a satisfying contrast that everyone will love.
Fresh Garden Salad: A mix of greens, cucumbers, and tomatoes adds a refreshing crunch and bright flavors, making for a wonderfully balanced meal. Drizzle with a light vinaigrette for extra flavor.
Chilled Lemonade: This tangy drink will cool your palate and enhance the sweet and spicy notes of the chicken, making for a fun, lively dining experience.

Storage Tips for Honey Sriracha Chicken Tenders

Room Temperature: Store any leftovers at room temperature for no more than 2 hours to ensure food safety.
Fridge: Keep leftover Honey Sriracha Chicken Tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the tenders individually wrapped in plastic wrap or a zip-top bag for up to 2 months. This prevents freezer burn and allows for easy reheating.
Reheating: To enjoy, reheat from frozen in an oven preheated to 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, heat in the microwave for a quick option, but the oven will keep them crispy.

Expert Tips for Honey Sriracha Chicken Tenders

Even Coating: Ensure each chicken tender gets a consistent layer of flour, egg, and breadcrumbs to achieve that perfect crunch; uneven coating can lead to soggy spots.
Spray for Crispiness: Lightly spray the tenders with cooking spray before baking to enhance their crispiness. This small step can transform your Honey Sriracha Chicken Tenders Oven Baked into a golden delight.
Customize Spice Levels: Adjust the amount of sriracha to suit your heat preference; for extra kick, consider incorporating cayenne or red pepper flakes.
Avoid Sogginess: Ensure the baking sheet isn’t overcrowded; overcrowding can cause steaming instead of baking, resulting in soggy tenders.
Rest Before Serving: Allow the tenders to cool for a couple of minutes after baking. This helps them maintain their crisp texture and makes them easier to handle.

Variations & Substitutions for Honey Sriracha Chicken Tenders Oven Baked

Feel free to get creative and make this dish your own with these delightful variations!

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour and use certified gluten-free breadcrumbs for a completely gluten-free dish.
Spicy Twist: Add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the honey sriracha sauce for an extra heat boost. Adjust to your spice preference!
Vegan Option: Swap chicken tenders for tempeh or tofu, and use a flax egg instead of a traditional egg for binding. They’ll soak up all that delicious sauce!
Herbed Crunch: Mix in dried herbs like oregano or thyme into the breadcrumb coating for a fresh twist. This subtle flavor enhancement will elevate each bite!
Crispier Coating: Use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs for an ultra-crispy crust that adds an irresistible texture.
Marinated Goodness: Marinate the chicken (or plant-based alternative) in the honey sriracha sauce for at least 30 minutes before coating. This allows for deeper flavors.
Sweet Swap: Experiment with swapping honey for maple syrup or agave nectar for a different sweetness! This is also perfect if you’re looking for a vegan option.
Zesty Dipping Sauce: Serve with a zesty dipping sauce made from Greek yogurt and lime juice for a refreshing contrast to the spicy tenders.

Let your taste buds embark on their own adventure with these tasty variations!

Make Ahead Options

These Honey Sriracha Chicken Tenders Oven Baked are fantastic for meal prep, saving you time during busy weeknights. You can coat the chicken tenders and refrigerate them up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. To maintain their crispy texture, store the coated tenders on a parchment-lined baking sheet covered tightly with plastic wrap. When you’re ready to bake, just preheat the oven and bake them as directed, brushing on the honey sriracha sauce before cooking. This method guarantees you’ll enjoy fresh, crunchy chicken tenders with minimal effort, making dinner a breeze!

Honey Sriracha Chicken Tenders Oven Baked Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken tenders should I use?
Absolutely! For the best results, choose fresh, high-quality chicken tenders. Look for tenders that are firm to the touch and have a nice pink color. Avoid any with dark spots or a slimy texture.

How long can I store leftovers?
Very important! You can store leftover Honey Sriracha Chicken Tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Make sure they are completely cooled before sealing to retain their moisture and flavor.

Can I freeze the chicken tenders?
Absolutely! For longer storage, wrap each chicken tender individually in plastic wrap or place them in a zip-top freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply reheat from frozen in an oven preheated to 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through.

What should I do if my chicken tenders aren’t crispy?
Don’t worry! If your tenders turn out soggy, check for overcrowding on the baking sheet, which can trap steam and prevent proper baking. Ensure there’s enough space between each tender. Another tip is to lightly spray them with cooking spray before baking to enhance that crunchy exterior.

Are these Honey Sriracha Chicken Tenders gluten-free?
Yes, they can be! Simply substitute regular all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour and ensure you use gluten-free breadcrumbs. You can also use tamari in place of soy sauce to keep everything gluten-free, perfect for those with dietary restrictions.

Can I adjust the spice level of the sriracha sauce?
Absolutely! You have complete control over the heat. Start with a smaller amount of sriracha and gradually increase it to your liking. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for an extra kick!