Firecracker Chicken Tenders with Honey-Lime Dipping Sauce

Allergens

Wheat, Egg, Dairy

Ingredients

• 12 chicken tenders (about 2 pounds)
• 1 cup hot sauce (e.g., Frank's RedHot)
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1 cup all
• purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/4 cup lime juice (from about 2 limes)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together hot sauce, melted butter, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Set aside.
2. In three separate shallow dishes, place flour in the first dish, eggs in the second (lightly beaten), and panko breadcrumbs in the third. Season each with salt and black pepper, to taste.
3. Working with one chicken tender at a time, dredge it in flour, shaking off excess then dip in egg, allowing excess to drip off finally, coat in breadcrumbs, pressing to adhere. Place coated tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Heat oil in a deep frying pan or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C). Fry chicken tenders in batches for 3 4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a wire rack set over a baking sheet to drain.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, lime juice, and ground cinnamon. Season with salt and black pepper, to taste.
6. Serve chicken tenders warm, dipped in honey lime sauce. Enjoy the sizzling, smoky aroma that transports you straight to the tailgate party!

Chef’s Insight

For extra heat, add more cayenne pepper to taste.

Notes

For a smoky flavor, try using a blend of hot sauces that include chipotle or habanero varieties.