Harissa Honey Chicken Tenders

Harissa Honey Chicken Tenders are an easy and delicious way to spice up chicken night. Crispy chicken tenders get baked in the oven and then glazed with harissa honey for the ultimate chicken meal! 

Chicken tenders. A mom’s survival food. 

I make chicken tenders (or nuggets) at least once a week. They are simple, delicious and Charlie gobbles them up. 

However, sometimes I want to jazz the chicken tenders up to make them more adult friendly but there’s no way I’m making two different versions of chicken tenders. That’s why this harissa honey glaze is brilliant. I can make a big batch of chicken tenders and then brush the glaze on top of a selected few for a killer weeknight chicken meal. 

In case you want a few ways to jazz up chicken tenders or nuggets, check out these recipes: Spiced Pecan Baked Chicken Nuggets, Korean BBQ Baked Chicken Fingers, and Fried Chicken Shawarma Sandwich (easily made into nuggets!).

Anyway, these Harissa Honey Chicken Tenders are so freaking delicious and will spice up your chicken night dinner game! 

What is Harissa 

Harissa is a spicy and aromatic chili pepper paste that is commonly used in North African and Middle Eastern cuisines. It is made from a combination of roasted red peppers, chili peppers, garlic, olive oil, and various spices such as coriander, cumin, and caraway. The exact ingredients and spice levels can vary depending on regional preferences.

Why use Harissa

Harissa is known for its bold and fiery flavor, and it is often used as a condiment to add heat and depth to a variety of dishes, including meats, stews, couscous, and grilled vegetables. It can also be used as a marinade for meats or a flavoring for sauces and dressings.

You can either purchase harissa at your local grocery store or you can make your own! Check out my easy version of making homemade harissa. 

Ingredients to Harissa Honey Chicken Tenders

Only a few ingredients stand in your way of making these Harissa Honey Chicken Tenders. You will need the following ingredients:

• Chicken Breast Tenderloins
• Panko breadcrumbs
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Kosher salt and pepper 
• Egg
• Harissa
• Honey
• Unsalted butter
• Lemon juice

How to Make Harissa Honey Chicken Tenders 

Making dinner at home is a great way to save money. With only a few simple steps, you will be able to devour these Harissa Honey Chicken Tenders without having to wait for a reservation. 

1. Preheat your oven to 425 degrees. Place a wire rack on a baking sheet and spray with non-stick cooking spray.
2. In a baking pie dish add the salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and panko. Stir to combine. In another baking pie dish add the eggs. Stir to combine. Take each chicken tender and coat it in the egg mixture.
3. Next, dredge it through the panko and then place the chicken tender on the rack. Repeat the process with renaming chicken. Spray each chicken tender with non-stick cooking spray. Bake the chicken for about 10 to 12 minutes. Flip the chicken halfway through and then spray the other side with non-stick cooking spray. Bake for another 10 to 12 minutes. 
4. While the chicken cooks, make the harissa honey mixture. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in honey and remove from heat. Once combined add in the harissa paste, lemon juice, kosher salt and pepper. 
5. Remove the chicken from the oven and glaze with harissa honey mixture. Serve the chicken tenders with fries and enjoy! 

Variations for Harissa Honey Chicken Tenders

Best part about making chicken tenders are all the variations. Here are few ideas to customize your chicken tender making experience: 

• Harissa Yogurt Marinade: Combine harissa with Greek yogurt, honey, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Marinate the chicken tenders in this mixture for a few hours before cooking.
• Harissa Lime Chicken Tenders: Create a marinade using harissa, honey, lime juice, and a bit of soy sauce. Allow the chicken to marinate before grilling or baking.
• Harissa Coconut Chicken Tenders: Mix harissa with coconut milk, honey, and a touch of curry powder. Marinate the chicken tenders in this tropical-inspired mixture.

Proper Storing 

Here are some guidelines on how to store Harissa Honey Chicken Tenders: 

• Refrigeration: Store the chicken tenders in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. Consume the leftovers within 3-4 days.
• ​​Freezing: Frozen harissa honey chicken tenders can be stored for about 2-3 months.
• Reheating: Reheat refrigerated or thawed harissa honey chicken tenders in an oven or toaster oven for best results.