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This honey BBQ chicken strips recipe transforms ordinary chicken into a mouthwatering dish that's perfect for family dinners or game day gatherings. The buttermilk marinade ensures tender, juicy chicken while the honey BBQ glaze adds that perfect balance of sticky sweetness with a hint of smokiness.
I first made these strips for a Super Bowl party, and they disappeared faster than any other dish on the table. Now they're our go-to when we have friends over who claim their kids are "picky eaters" - these strips convert them every time!
Ingredients
- Chicken tenders or boneless skinless breasts cut into strips: Fresh chicken ensures the best texture and flavor
- Buttermilk: The acidity tenderizes the meat beautifully
- Hot sauce: Adds a subtle kick without overwhelming heat
- All-purpose flour: Creates the perfect crispy coating
- Spices: Salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika create a flavorful crust
- Barbecue sauce: Use your favorite brand for the base of the glaze
- Honey: Adds natural sweetness and that sticky quality we love
- Apple cider vinegar: Optional but adds a tangy depth to the sauce
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken:
- Season chicken strips with salt and pepper, then soak in buttermilk for at least 2 hours. This step is crucial for breaking down proteins and creating tender chicken. For best results, marinate overnight in the refrigerator.
- Prepare the Coatings:
- Heat oil to 350-360F in a large frying pan, about 1 inch deep. Mix flour with seasonings in one bowl, and combine buttermilk with hot sauce in another. In a third bowl, mix barbecue sauce with honey and apple cider vinegar. This triple-station setup ensures efficient coating.
- Double-Dip Breading:
- Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess drip off. Dredge in seasoned flour, then dip in buttermilk mixture, then back in flour. The double coating creates those beautiful craggy edges that get extra crispy.
- Fry to Golden Perfection:
- Carefully place breaded strips in hot oil and fry until golden brown on both sides. Work in batches to avoid overcrowding. Remember, we're not cooking them completely through yet just developing that crispy exterior.
- Glaze with Honey BBQ Sauce:
- Dip each strip in the honey BBQ mixture or brush it on generously. Be sure to coat all sides for maximum flavor. The warm chicken will help the glaze adhere beautifully.
- Finish in the Oven:
- Arrange glazed strips on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 350°F for 20 minutes or until cooked through. This final oven step ensures the chicken is fully cooked while allowing the glaze to caramelize slightly.
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The honey in this recipe isn't just for sweetness. When I accidentally used more honey than called for once, I discovered it creates this amazing sticky texture that helps the sauce cling to every bite of chicken. Now I sometimes add an extra tablespoon when I want them extra sticky!
Make-Ahead Options
These chicken strips can be prepared through the frying stage up to a day in advance. After frying, let them cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, coat with the honey BBQ glaze and bake until heated through and slightly caramelized. This makes them perfect for entertaining when you want to minimize last-minute cooking.
Flavor Variations
While the classic honey BBQ flavor is always a crowd-pleaser, this recipe is incredibly versatile. For a spicier version, add sriracha or cayenne pepper to the glaze. For a tropical twist, mix in some pineapple juice and a dash of soy sauce. My family particularly loves when I add a tablespoon of bourbon to the glaze for an adult version that pairs beautifully with weekend football games.
Serving Suggestions
These strips shine as the star of your meal when served with classic sides like coleslaw, corn on the cob, or mac and cheese. For a lighter option, serve them atop a crisp salad with ranch dressing. They also make excellent sliders when placed on small buns with additional sauce and pickles. During parties, I serve them on a platter with toothpicks and extra dipping sauce on the side for easy grabbing.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How long should I marinate the chicken?
For the best flavor, marinate the chicken in buttermilk for at least 2 hours. This helps tenderize the meat and adds moisture.
- → Can I bake instead of frying the chicken strips?
Yes, you can bake them at 400°F until they are golden and cooked through, but frying gives a crispier texture.
- → What type of barbecue sauce works best?
A smoky or sweet barbecue sauce pairs well with honey. Customize based on your desired sweetness or spice level.
- → How do I prevent the coating from falling off?
Ensure the chicken is well coated in the flour mixture, and avoid skipping the second dredge in the buttermilk and flour.
- → Can I make the glaze spicier?
Yes, simply add hot sauce or sriracha to the honey BBQ glaze to adjust the spice level to your liking.