Name: Crispy Honey BBQ Chicken Strips That Will Steal the Show
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 lb Chicken Tenders (Substitute with chicken breasts cut into strips for a leaner option.); 1 cup All-Purpose Flour (For gluten-free, swap in gluten-free flour.); 1 cup Breadcrumbs (Panko breadcrumbs can add extra crispiness.); 1 tsp Garlic Powder (Use fresh garlic for a robust taste if preferred.); 1 tsp Onion Powder; 1 tsp Smoked Paprika (Regular paprika is a fine alternative.); to taste Salt and Pepper (Season to taste.); 2 large Eggs (A flax egg is a great vegan substitute.); 1/2 cup Honey (Maple syrup is a delicious alternative.); 1/2 cup BBQ Sauce (Consider using homemade varieties.); 2 tbsp Olive Oil (Feel free to switch it out for grapeseed or vegetable oil.)

As the air turns crisp and the evenings grow cooler, I find myself longing for comforting meals that embody the warmth of home. That’s where my crispy Honey BBQ Chicken Strips come in—your new favorite dish for cozy nights, game days, or impromptu gatherings. This easy recipe pairs the perfect blend of sweet honey with smoky BBQ sauce, creating a delightful harmony that’s both satisfying and reminiscent of childhood favorites. Not only are these chicken strips incredibly simple to whip up, but they’re also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’ll make you the star of any dinner table. You can choose to fry them for that unbeatable crunch or bake them for a lighter twist—either way, they promise to deliver smiles and satisfy those savory cravings. What’s your favorite dip for chicken strips? Let’s dive into this delicious adventure together!

Why are these chicken strips irresistible?

Crispy Texture: Each bite offers a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the juicy chicken inside.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of sweet, sticky honey and smoky BBQ sauce embodies comfort food at its finest.
Versatile Cooking Methods: Whether you fry for a golden finish or bake for a lighter option, these strips cater to your cooking style.
Easy Prep: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, they’re perfect for anyone, even if you’re short on time.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Ideal for family dinners, game nights, or party appetizers, they’re guaranteed to wow your guests—just like my Honey Dijon Chicken or Chopped Chicken Bacon Ranch.
Make-Ahead Convenience: Prep ahead of time and enjoy that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste when it’s time to serve!

Honey BBQ Chicken Strips Ingredients

Are you ready to create a flavor-packed dish that will impress everyone at your table?

For the Chicken Strips

Chicken Tenders – The star of the show; substitute with chicken breasts cut into strips for a leaner option.
All-Purpose Flour – Gives a light, crispy coating; for gluten-free goodness, swap in gluten-free flour.
Breadcrumbs – Provides crunch; panko breadcrumbs can add extra crispiness to your strips.
Garlic Powder – Adds depth of flavor; use fresh garlic for a robust taste if you prefer.
Onion Powder – Enhances the savory profile of the seasonings.
Smoked Paprika – Introduces a subtle smoky flavor; regular paprika is a fine alternative.
Salt and Pepper – Season to taste for a well-rounded flavor.
Eggs – Binds the coating to the chicken; a flax egg is a great vegan substitute here.

For the Honey BBQ Sauce

Honey – Sweetens and adds a sticky texture; maple syrup is a delicious alternative if you’re looking for a twist.
BBQ Sauce – Provides that delightful tang; consider using homemade varieties for a healthier kick.
Olive Oil – Used for frying; feel free to switch it out for grapeseed or vegetable oil if desired.

This combination of ingredients will create the most mouthwatering honey BBQ chicken strips that you’ll want to make again and again!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Honey BBQ Chicken Strips

Step 1: Prep Chicken
Start by washing and patting dry 1 pound of chicken tenders. In a large bowl, season them generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Make sure every piece is evenly coated in these spices to enhance the flavors of your honey BBQ chicken strips. Allow them to sit for about 10 minutes to marinate while you prepare the coating.

Step 2: Coat Chicken
Set up a three-bowl dredging station: fill one bowl with all-purpose flour, another with beaten eggs, and the third with breadcrumbs. One by one, take each seasoned chicken tender, dredge it in flour, dip it in the eggs, and finally coat it with breadcrumbs, pressing down lightly so they stick. This thorough coating will give your chicken strips a delightful crunch.

Step 3: Cook
For frying, heat 1/2 inch of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering—approximately 350°F. Carefully place the coated chicken strips in the hot oil, cooking them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they turn a golden brown, and are crispy. If baking, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and arrange the strips on a greased baking sheet, cooking for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through and golden.

Step 4: Make Sauce
In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine equal parts honey and BBQ sauce (about 1/2 cup each). Stir continuously until the mixture is heated through and begins to thicken slightly, which should take about 5 minutes. This sweetened sauce will be the finishing touch to your crispy honey BBQ chicken strips, enhancing their flavor and stickiness.

Step 5: Finish Chicken
Once the chicken strips are cooked to perfection, remove them from the skillet or oven and place them in a clean bowl. Pour the warm honey BBQ sauce over the crispy tenders and toss gently until each strip is well-coated with that irresistible glaze. This step brings together the delicious flavors and adds a sticky-sweet allure.

Step 6: Serve
Carefully plate your honey BBQ chicken strips and consider garnishing them with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color. Serve these delicious strips warm, and pair them with your favorite dips or sides like coleslaw or fries for a complete meal. Every bite promises to be a crowd-pleaser!

Honey BBQ Chicken Strips Variations

Feel free to mix things up and add your personal touch to these honey BBQ chicken strips!

Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the honey BBQ sauce for a fiery version. Your taste buds will thank you!
Gluten-Free Delight: Substitute all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives for a deliciously inclusive dish everyone can enjoy.
Plant-Based Option: Use plant-based chicken alternatives for a vegetarian-friendly twist that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Enjoy every crispy bite!
BBQ Sauce Varieties: Experiment with different BBQ sauces like honey mustard or applewood smoked for exciting new flavors and textures.
Fresh Garlic: Swap garlic powder for minced fresh garlic to amp up the flavor profile—nothing like the aroma of fresh garlic wafting through the kitchen!
Baked Sweet Potatoes: Pair your chicken strips with baked sweet potatoes for a comforting side that complements the sweet and smoky flavors.
Crunchy Toppings: Top your chicken strips with a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for an eye-catching finish and a delightful crunch.
Loaded Dipping Sauce: Mix in some Greek yogurt or sour cream with additional spices for a creamy, tangy dipping sauce that pairs wonderfully with your strips!

For more irresistible recipes, celebrate with my Crunchy Hot Honey or enjoy some Hot Honey Cream to elevate your culinary adventures even further!

How to Store and Freeze Honey BBQ Chicken Strips

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor. Reheat in the oven for that crispy goodness.

Freezer: For long-term storage, place cooled chicken strips in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy.

Avoid Sogginess: To keep your honey BBQ chicken strips crunchy, always let them cool completely before sealing for refrigerated or frozen storage.

Make Ahead Options

These Honey BBQ Chicken Strips are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy homemade goodness even on your busiest days! You can season and coat the chicken strips up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate them in an airtight container. This prep ensures the flavors meld beautifully. When ready to cook, heat your oven or frying pan and proceed with the cooking instructions as usual. To maintain their crispiness, avoid overcrowding the pan if frying, and consider reheating leftovers in the oven for about 10 minutes to restore that delightful crunch. Enjoy restaurant-quality results with minimal effort!

Expert Tips for Honey BBQ Chicken Strips

Marinate for Flavor: Consider marinating the chicken tenders in the seasoning mix for at least 30 minutes or overnight for an even deeper flavor in your honey BBQ chicken strips.
Proper Oil Temperature: Always make sure your oil is hot enough before frying—around 350°F—to achieve that coveted crispy texture and prevent sogginess.
Avoid Overcrowding: Cook your chicken strips in batches. Overcrowding the pan can lower the oil temperature and lead to uneven cooking.
Use Panko Breadcrumbs: For extra crunch, use panko breadcrumbs instead of standard breadcrumbs. They will give your chicken strips a delightful texture.
Bake for a Healthier Option: If you prefer a healthier version, remember that baking at 400°F for 15-20 minutes yields delicious results without the extra oil.

What to Serve with Crispy Honey BBQ Chicken Strips

Indulge your senses while crafting the perfect meal to accompany your sweet, sticky chicken strips.

Creamy Coleslaw: A cool, crisp slaw adds freshness and crunch that balances the savory sweetness of the chicken.
Garlic Breadsticks: Soft, warm breadsticks are perfect for dipping into the honey BBQ sauce, elevating every bite.
Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, the natural sweetness complements the dish’s flavors beautifully.
Fresh Garden Salad: A vibrant salad with seasonal greens and a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the strips.
Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled, the sweet kernels offer a delightful contrast to the honey’s flavor and are a barbecue classic.
Apple Sauce: This unexpected pairing adds a hint of sweetness and tang, perfectly cutting through the richness of the chicken.
Iced Tea or Lemonade: Refreshing drinks like sweet iced tea or zingy lemonade will cleanse your palate while enjoying the fabulous flavors.
Chocolate Chip Cookies: Finish off the meal with warm, gooey cookies for a comforting dessert that rounds out the family-lovin’ experience.

Honey BBQ Chicken Strips Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best chicken for my strips?
Absolutely! For the best results, look for boneless chicken tenders for consistent tenderness and flavor. If you prefer a leaner option, chicken breasts cut into strips will work beautifully. Ensure the chicken is fresh, with no dark spots or unpleasant odors.

What’s the best way to store leftover chicken strips?
Very! Once your honey BBQ chicken strips have cooled down, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for up to 3 days. When reheating, I recommend placing them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes to maintain their crispiness.

Can I freeze honey BBQ chicken strips?
Of course! To freeze, let your chicken strips cool completely. Then, place them in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag, ensuring you remove as much air as possible. They can be stored for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) until hot and crispy.

What if my chicken strips aren’t crispy?
Sometimes this happens! Ensure your oil is hot before frying; around 350°F is ideal. If you’re baking, use a wire rack on your baking sheet to allow heat to circulate and keep the bottom crispy. Additionally, avoid overcrowding the pan; cook in batches to allow for even cooking.

Can I make these chicken strips gluten-free?
Absolutely! For a gluten-free version, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour and use gluten-free breadcrumbs. The flavors will remain deliciously intact, making it a great option for everyone to enjoy!

Is it safe to share these chicken strips with my pets?
Very! While cooked chicken can be a treat for pets, avoid giving them any honey BBQ chicken strips with sauce, as ingredients like garlic and onion can be harmful to dogs and cats. Stick to plain, unseasoned chicken for them!