Bring restaurant-quality flavor to your kitchen with this irresistible Copycat Wings and Things Chicken Tenders and Hot Sauce recipe! Perfectly crispy, golden chicken tenders are double-coated in a spiced flour mixture and fried to crunchy perfection, then paired with a luscious homemade hot sauce that balances the heat of hot sauce with the richness of butter and a hint of honey sweetness. The buttermilk marinade ensures tender, juicy chicken in every bite, while the quick-fry technique delivers a satisfying crunch. Whether you drizzle or toss the tenders in the silky, tangy sauce, this dish takes game-day snacks or casual dinners to a whole new level. Serve with cooling ranch or blue cheese dressing, alongside crispy fries or fresh celery sticks, for the ultimate wings-inspired feast at home.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and egg. Add chicken tenders, ensuring they are fully submerged, and let marinate for 15-30 minutes in the refrigerator.
In another bowl, mix the flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. This will serve as the dry coating for the chicken tenders.
Heat the vegetable oil in a deep skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat until the oil reaches 350°F (175°C).
Remove the chicken tenders from the buttermilk mixture, letting any excess drip off. Dredge each tender in the flour mixture, ensuring even coating.
Carefully place the chicken tenders in the hot oil, frying in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Cook each batch for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
While the chicken tenders are frying, prepare the hot sauce. In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the butter. Stir in the hot sauce, honey, and white vinegar, mixing until well combined. Remove from heat and set aside.
Once all the chicken tenders are fried, drizzle the homemade hot sauce over them or toss them in the sauce for a fully coated experience.
Serve immediately with dipping sauces like ranch or blue cheese and your favorite sides, such as celery sticks or fries.
Calories |
9550 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 957.1 g | 1227% | |
| Saturated Fat | 156.3 g | 782% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 540.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 535 mg | 178% | |
| Sodium | 9962 mg | 433% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 206.7 g | 75% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 8.2 g | 29% | |
| Total Sugars | 32.1 g | ||
| Protein | 119.4 g | 239% | |
| Vitamin D | 4.5 mcg | 23% | |
| Calcium | 419 mg | 32% | |
| Iron | 11.6 mg | 64% | |
| Potassium | 1791 mg | 38% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.