Honey BBQ Chicken Strips are a delicious and versatile dish that perfectly combines the rich, smoky flavors of barbecue with a touch of sweetness from honey. These crispy chicken strips are marinated in buttermilk, lightly breaded, and fried to golden perfection before being coated in a luscious honey barbecue glaze. The result is a mouthwatering balance of sweet and savory flavors, with just the right amount of heat for those who enjoy a bit of spice. Whether you’re serving them as a main course, a hearty snack, or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, Honey BBQ Chicken Strips are sure to be a hit at family meals, casual gatherings, or game day parties. Their irresistible flavor and satisfying crunch make them a favorite for both kids and adults alike, offering a comforting yet exciting twist on classic fried chicken.
Ingredients Overview
The ingredients for Honey BBQ Chicken Strips are carefully selected to create a dish that’s both flavorful and satisfying. Each component plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect balance of taste and texture.
Chicken:
For this recipe, using chicken tenderloins or boneless, skinless chicken breasts is key. Tenderloins are naturally tender and cook quickly, making them ideal for this dish. If you prefer chicken breasts, cutting them into uniform strips ensures even cooking. These cuts of chicken are lean and absorb flavors well, making them the perfect base for the honey BBQ glaze.
Seasoning:
The basic seasoning for the chicken consists of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Salt and pepper provide the foundational flavors, enhancing the natural taste of the chicken. Garlic powder adds a subtle depth, while paprika contributes a mild, smoky undertone that complements the barbecue glaze. This combination ensures that the chicken is flavorful even before the glaze is added.
Buttermilk:
Buttermilk serves a dual purpose in this recipe. First, it acts as a tenderizer, breaking down the protein in the chicken and making it more tender and juicy. Second, buttermilk imparts a slight tangy flavor that balances the sweetness of the honey in the glaze. Marinating the chicken in buttermilk for at least two hours, or even overnight, allows the flavors to penetrate deeply, resulting in a more flavorful dish.
Flour Mixture:
The dry coating, made from flour seasoned with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika, is essential for creating the crispy texture that is characteristic of these chicken strips. The flour mixture adheres to the buttermilk-coated chicken, forming a crust that crisps up beautifully when fried. This crispy exterior provides a satisfying contrast to the tender chicken inside and holds up well under the honey BBQ glaze.
Barbecue Sauce and Honey Glaze:
The glaze is a simple yet transformative combination of barbecue sauce and honey. The barbecue sauce provides the smoky, savory backbone, while the honey adds sweetness and a sticky texture that clings to the chicken. Together, they create a rich and flavorful coating that elevates the chicken strips beyond a simple fried dish.
Optional Ingredients:
For those who enjoy a bit of heat, adding hot sauce to the buttermilk or directly into the honey BBQ glaze can provide a nice kick. Apple cider vinegar, though optional, can be added to the glaze for a slight tang, balancing the sweetness of the honey and the richness of the barbecue sauce. These optional ingredients allow you to customize the flavor profile to suit your personal preferences, adding complexity and depth to the dish.
Detailed Cooking Instructions for Honey BBQ Chicken Strips
Marinating the Chicken
Marinating the chicken is a crucial step in ensuring your Honey BBQ Chicken Strips are tender, juicy, and flavorful. The process begins with soaking the chicken in buttermilk, which is not only traditional in Southern fried chicken recipes but also highly effective. Buttermilk is slightly acidic, which helps to break down the proteins in the chicken, tenderizing it while adding a subtle tangy flavor. This makes the chicken more succulent and moist when cooked.
To marinate the chicken, start by placing your chicken tenderloins or boneless, skinless chicken breast strips in a large bowl or resealable plastic bag. Pour in 2 cups of buttermilk, ensuring that all the chicken pieces are fully submerged. Add 1 teaspoon of salt and 1 teaspoon of pepper to the buttermilk, and if you like a bit of spice, add a tablespoon of hot sauce. Seal the bag or cover the bowl with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. This allows enough time for the buttermilk to penetrate the chicken. For an even deeper flavor, marinate the chicken overnight. The longer marination time will enhance the tenderness and flavor, making the chicken even more delicious.
Preparing the Flour Mixture
The flour mixture is what gives the chicken strips their signature crispy coating. To prepare it, you’ll need 2 cups of all-purpose flour as the base. In a shallow bowl, combine the flour with 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of pepper, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1 teaspoon of paprika. These spices are essential as they provide a flavorful crust that complements the honey BBQ glaze.
Each spice contributes uniquely: salt enhances all flavors, pepper adds a bit of heat, garlic powder gives a subtle aromatic depth, and paprika introduces a mild smokiness. Mix these ingredients thoroughly to ensure the seasoning is evenly distributed throughout the flour.
For optional variations, you can experiment by adding cayenne pepper for more heat, onion powder for a slightly sweet undertone, or smoked paprika for an even richer smoky flavor. Adjust these spices to your taste to create your perfect coating.
Frying the Chicken Strips
Frying the chicken strips is where the magic happens, turning marinated chicken into crispy, golden perfection. Start by heating about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat. The ideal temperature for frying is between 350°F and 360°F. To check if the oil is ready, you can drop a small pinch of flour into the oil; if it sizzles immediately, the oil is at the right temperature.
While the oil is heating, remove the chicken strips from the buttermilk marinade and let the excess drip off. Next, coat each strip in the prepared flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure the flour adheres well. For an extra crispy coating, you can dip the flour-coated chicken back into the buttermilk, then into the flour mixture again, creating a double coating.
Once the oil has reached the right temperature, carefully place the chicken strips into the pan, making sure not to overcrowd it. Fry the chicken in batches if necessary. Cook the strips for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Use tongs to turn them over gently. Once fried, transfer the chicken strips to a plate lined with paper towels or a wire rack to drain any excess oil.
Safety Tips: Always be cautious when frying. Use a deep frying pan to minimize splashes, and never leave hot oil unattended. Keep a close eye on the temperature to avoid burning the oil, which can lead to a bitter taste and potential fire hazards.
Making the Honey BBQ Glaze
The honey BBQ glaze is what sets these chicken strips apart, adding a sticky, sweet, and tangy finish that’s simply irresistible. To make the glaze, combine 1 cup of your favorite barbecue sauce with 1/4 cup of honey in a shallow bowl. If you want to add a bit of tang, mix in 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar. This combination gives the glaze a perfect balance of sweetness and acidity.
For those who enjoy a bit of spice, consider adding a tablespoon of hot sauce or sriracha to the glaze. This will give the chicken strips a pleasant kick that pairs well with the sweetness of the honey.
Stir the ingredients together until the glaze is smooth and well combined. The consistency should be thick enough to coat the chicken strips without being too runny. If needed, adjust the glaze by adding more honey for thickness or more vinegar for a thinner consistency.
Baking the Chicken Strips
After frying, the chicken strips are ready for the final step: baking. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s hot enough to finish cooking the chicken and caramelize the glaze. While the oven is heating, prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
To coat the chicken strips with the glaze, you can either dip each strip directly into the honey BBQ glaze or use a brush to generously apply the glaze. Make sure each strip is thoroughly coated. Place the glazed chicken strips on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them out to allow for even baking.
Bake the chicken strips in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the glaze is slightly caramelized. The exact baking time will depend on the thickness of your chicken strips, so check them occasionally to avoid overcooking.
Final Touches: To ensure even cooking, you can turn the chicken strips halfway through the baking time. This also helps to evenly distribute the glaze. Once done, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This resting time allows the glaze to set, making the chicken strips easier to handle and enhancing the overall flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Honey BBQ Chicken Strips are incredibly versatile and can be paired with a variety of sides to create a complete and satisfying meal. Some of the best accompaniments include classic coleslaw, which offers a refreshing crunch and tang that complements the sweet and savory chicken strips. Crispy French fries are another popular choice, providing a satisfying contrast in texture. For a Southern-inspired touch, serve the chicken strips with warm cornbread, which adds a slightly sweet and buttery element to the meal.
In addition to the honey BBQ glaze, offering a selection of dipping sauces can enhance the flavor experience. Ranch dressing is a favorite for its creamy, cooling effect, which pairs well with the slight heat of the chicken strips. Blue cheese dressing adds a rich, tangy flavor that contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the glaze. For those who love extra BBQ flavor, serve a side of additional barbecue sauce for dipping.
When it comes to presentation, these chicken strips can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. For a casual gathering, serve them on a platter with a variety of dipping sauces and sides, allowing guests to help themselves. For a more formal setting, arrange the chicken strips on a large serving dish, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro, and serve individual portions with carefully plated sides. This approach not only looks elegant but also elevates the dining experience, making the meal feel special.
Cooking Tips and Tricks
To achieve perfect crispiness in your Honey BBQ Chicken Strips, even after baking, it’s important to avoid overcrowding the frying pan and to fry the chicken in batches. This ensures the oil temperature stays consistent, which is key for a crisp crust. After frying, drain the chicken strips on a wire rack instead of paper towels to prevent them from becoming soggy. When baking, use a parchment-lined baking sheet and avoid stacking the strips, allowing hot air to circulate evenly around each piece.
For flavor variations, you can experiment with different seasonings in the flour mixture, such as adding cayenne pepper for heat, smoked paprika for a deeper smoky flavor, or dried herbs like thyme or oregano for an earthy twist. Alternatively, try different glazes like a honey mustard or a spicy buffalo sauce to change up the flavor profile.
When storing leftovers, place the chicken strips in an airtight container lined with paper towels to absorb moisture. To reheat, bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes. This method helps restore the crispiness while maintaining the flavor and moisture of the chicken. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the coating soggy.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When frying Honey BBQ Chicken Strips, overcrowding the pan is a common mistake that can lead to uneven cooking and a soggy crust. When too many pieces are added at once, the oil temperature drops, preventing the chicken from frying properly. This results in a less crispy exterior and can make the strips greasy. Frying in batches ensures that each piece gets the attention it needs to achieve a golden, crispy texture.
Underseasoning is another pitfall that can significantly impact the final dish. Properly seasoning both the chicken and the flour mixture is crucial for developing a robust flavor. Without enough salt, pepper, and spices, the chicken can taste bland, even after it’s coated with the flavorful honey BBQ glaze. Always taste the seasoning mix before using it to ensure it’s well-balanced.
Improper glazing can also lead to disappointing results. Applying too much glaze or not allowing excess glaze to drip off can result in soggy strips. To avoid this, dip or brush the chicken strips lightly, ensuring they are evenly coated without being drenched. This will allow the glaze to caramelize beautifully in the oven, adding flavor without compromising the crispy texture.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it should be fully thawed before marinating and cooking. Thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave. Thawing ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and absorbs the marinade properly, resulting in tender and flavorful strips.
How long can I store leftover chicken strips?
Leftover chicken strips can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the strips for up to 2 months. Ensure they are completely cooled before storing to maintain their texture and flavor.
What’s the best way to reheat without losing crispiness?
To reheat chicken strips without losing crispiness, bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes. Placing them on a wire rack over a baking sheet helps maintain airflow around the chicken, keeping the exterior crispy. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the coating soggy.
Can I make these in an air fryer?
Yes, you can make Honey BBQ Chicken Strips in an air fryer. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F and cook the chicken strips in a single layer for 10-12 minutes, turning halfway through. Air frying can give you a crispy texture similar to traditional frying but with less oil.
What type of barbecue sauce works best?
The type of barbecue sauce you choose can significantly affect the flavor. A thick, smoky barbecue sauce works best, as it complements the sweetness of the honey and adheres well to the chicken. If you prefer a bit more heat, opt for a spicy BBQ sauce or mix in some hot sauce to customize the flavor to your liking.
Honey BBQ Chicken Strips
Description
Honey BBQ Chicken Strips are a delectable combination of tender, marinated chicken coated in a crispy, seasoned crust and finished with a sticky, sweet, and smoky honey barbecue glaze. Perfect for family dinners, game day snacks, or any gathering, these chicken strips offer a balance of flavors and textures that are sure to please everyone. With a hint of optional heat from hot sauce or sriracha, this dish can be customized to suit various taste preferences.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken tenders or boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp pepper
- Vegetable oil for frying
- 4 cups buttermilk, divided
- 1 tbsp hot sauce (optional)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (optional)
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken:
Season the chicken strips with 1 teaspoon of salt and 1 teaspoon of pepper. Place them in a large bowl or resealable plastic bag, and pour 2 cups of buttermilk over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are submerged. Add the hot sauce if using. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or overnight for deeper flavor. - Prepare the Flour Mixture:
In a shallow bowl, combine 2 cups of flour with 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of pepper, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1 teaspoon of paprika. Mix well to evenly distribute the seasoning. - Heat the Oil:
Pour about 1 inch of vegetable oil into a large frying pan and heat it to 350-360°F. - Coat the Chicken:
Remove the chicken strips from the buttermilk, letting the excess drip off. Coat each strip in the flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere. For an extra crispy crust, dip the chicken back into the remaining 2 cups of buttermilk (mixed with hot sauce if desired), then into the flour mixture again. - Fry the Chicken:
Carefully place the coated chicken strips in the hot oil, frying in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry each strip for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate or a wire rack to drain excess oil. - Make the Honey BBQ Glaze:
In a shallow bowl, combine 1 cup of barbecue sauce, 1/4 cup honey, and 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar (if using). Stir until smooth. - Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F. - Glaze and Bake the Chicken:
Dip each fried chicken strip into the honey BBQ glaze or brush it on generously. Place the glazed strips on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the glaze is slightly caramelized.
Notes
- Customizing Heat: If you prefer a spicier dish, add more hot sauce or sriracha to the honey BBQ glaze.
- Serving: These chicken strips are best served hot, accompanied by sides like coleslaw, fries, or cornbread. For added flavor, offer extra dipping sauces such as ranch or blue cheese dressing.
- Reheating: To reheat leftover chicken strips without losing their crispiness, bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it may make the coating soggy.
