Crispy Hot Honey Salmon Tenders

If you’re in the mood for something crispy, sweet, spicy, and oh-so-satisfying, these Crispy Hot Honey Salmon Tenders are the answer. Imagine juicy salmon, coated in a crunchy golden breadcrumb crust, then drizzled with a luscious hot honey sauce that balances the perfect amount of heat and sweetness. It’s like a gourmet version of your favorite comfort food—easy to make, absolutely delicious, and sure to wow anyone who takes a bite.

Whether you’re looking for a healthy dinner that feels indulgent or a new way to enjoy seafood, this recipe is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. The crispy texture on the outside and the tender salmon inside create an irresistible combination. And don’t get me started on that hot honey glaze—it’s the kind of sauce you’ll want to put on everything!

Why You’ll Love Crispy Hot Honey Salmon Tenders

Crispy Crunch, Tender Inside
The combination of crispy breadcrumbs and tender, flaky salmon is the perfect textural contrast. Each bite is a satisfying crunch followed by soft, juicy fish that practically melts in your mouth.

Sweet and Spicy Perfection
The hot honey glaze is a showstopper. It’s perfectly balanced—sweet from the honey and a little kick from the hot sauce and chili flakes. It’s the type of sauce you’ll want to drizzle on everything.

Healthy, Yet Indulgent
Salmon is packed with omega-3 fatty acids, making these tenders a healthy choice. Baking instead of frying means you get all the crispy goodness without the excess oil, so you can indulge without feeling guilty.

Quick and Easy
This recipe is simple and fast—ideal for a weeknight dinner or a special meal. With minimal prep time, you’ll have an impressive dish ready in no time.

Customizable
Not a fan of spicy food? No problem! You can adjust the amount of hot sauce in the glaze to suit your taste. Want it extra spicy? Add more chili flakes. It’s all up to you.

Ingredients in Crispy Hot Honey Salmon Tenders

Here’s what you’ll need to make these irresistible salmon tenders:

For the Salmon:

• Salmon Fillets: The main event! You can use fresh or frozen salmon fillets, and cutting them into tenders is super easy.
• Panko Breadcrumbs: These provide that signature crisp and crunch when baked. You can use regular breadcrumbs if that’s what you have on hand.
• Flour: For dredging the salmon before it gets coated in breadcrumbs.
• Eggs: To help the panko breadcrumbs stick to the salmon.
• Garlic Powder: Adds a savory, aromatic kick to the breadcrumbs.
• Paprika: For a little warmth and color in the crust.
• Salt and Pepper: For seasoning.

For the Hot Honey Glaze:

• Honey: The sweet base that adds that sticky, luscious texture to the glaze.
• Hot Sauce: Adds the heat and tang. You can use any hot sauce you love, such as sriracha, Frank’s RedHot, or even a sweeter hot sauce.
• Chili Flakes: For an extra layer of heat.
• Butter: Makes the glaze rich and smooth.
• Garlic Powder: To enhance the depth of flavor in the glaze.
• Lemon Juice: For a bright, zesty finish.

(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Prepare the Salmon:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it for easy cleanup.
2. Prepare the Breading Stations: In one shallow dish, mix flour with a pinch of salt and pepper. In another shallow dish, beat the eggs. In a third dish, combine the panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, and a pinch of salt.
3. Coat the Salmon: Cut your salmon fillets into tender-sized pieces (about 1-2 inches wide). Dredge each salmon tender in the flour mixture, dip it into the beaten eggs, and then coat it with the seasoned panko breadcrumbs. Press the breadcrumbs firmly to ensure they stick.
4. Bake the Salmon: Arrange the breaded salmon tenders on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the tenders are golden, crispy, and cooked through (salmon should reach an internal temperature of 145°F or 63°C).

Prepare the Hot Honey Glaze:

5. Make the Glaze: While the salmon is baking, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the honey, hot sauce, chili flakes, garlic powder, and lemon juice. Stir to combine and bring the glaze to a simmer. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly.
6. Taste and Adjust: Taste the glaze and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If you want more heat, add extra hot sauce or chili flakes. For a milder flavor, reduce the hot sauce.

Serve:

7. Drizzle the Glaze: Once the salmon tenders are done baking, remove them from the oven and drizzle the hot honey glaze over the top. You can also toss the tenders in the glaze for an extra flavor boost.
8. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the crispy hot honey salmon tenders with your favorite sides. They’re perfect alongside roasted vegetables, a crisp salad, or even over rice. Don’t forget to serve extra hot honey sauce on the side for dipping!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 350
Total Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 70mg
Sodium: 460mg
Total Carbohydrates: 20g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 14g
Protein: 28g

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

How to Serve Crispy Hot Honey Salmon Tenders

• With a Side Salad: These salmon tenders pair wonderfully with a crisp green salad, maybe with some avocado and a light vinaigrette to balance out the richness.
• Over Rice or Quinoa: Serve them on top of some fluffy white rice or quinoa to soak up the hot honey sauce and add a healthy grain to your meal.
• With Roasted Vegetables: Roasted carrots, broccoli, or sweet potatoes would be a perfect complement to this dish. They’ll add extra color and nutrients to your plate!
• In a Wrap: For a fun twist, use these salmon tenders in a wrap with some fresh veggies and a drizzle of extra hot honey sauce.

Additional Tips

• For Extra Crunch: If you want an even crispier crust, you can spray the breaded salmon with a little olive oil before baking.
• Adjust the Spice: Feel free to adjust the amount of hot sauce and chili flakes to make the glaze as spicy (or mild) as you prefer.
• Use Fresh Salmon: Fresh, wild-caught salmon will provide the best flavor and texture, but frozen salmon works too. Just make sure to thaw it thoroughly before breading.
• Make Ahead: You can prep the breaded salmon tenders ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Bake them fresh when you’re ready to serve.

FAQ

Q1: Can I use a different type of fish?
A1: Yes! While salmon works wonderfully, you can substitute with another firm fish like cod or tilapia.

Q2: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A2: You can bread the salmon tenders ahead of time and store them in the fridge. Just bake them fresh when you’re ready to eat.

Q3: How do I make the glaze milder?
A3: Reduce the amount of hot sauce or chili flakes to make the glaze milder. You can also use a sweet chili sauce as a base for a more subtle heat.

Q4: Can I bake the salmon tenders instead of frying them?
A4: Yes! This recipe is already baked, so no need to fry. The baking method gives the tenders a crispy coating without the excess oil.

Q5: Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of panko?
A5: Yes, you can use regular breadcrumbs if that’s what you have on hand, though panko will give a lighter, crispier texture.

Q6: Can I make the glaze ahead of time?
A6: Yes! The glaze can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to a week. Just reheat it before drizzling over the tenders.

Q7: Can I freeze the breaded salmon?
A7: Yes, you can freeze the breaded tenders before baking. Just place them on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cook time.

Q8: What side dishes go well with this?
A8: Try pairing these tenders with roasted veggies, a fresh salad, or mashed potatoes. The glaze also pairs beautifully with rice.

Q9: How do I store leftovers?
A9: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain the crispiness.

Q10: Can I double the recipe?
A10: Absolutely! Just make sure to spread the salmon tenders out on your baking sheet to ensure they cook evenly.

Conclusion

These Crispy Hot Honey Salmon Tenders are the ultimate combination of crunch, heat, and sweetness that will leave you coming back for more. Whether you’re serving them for dinner or making them for a party, they’re sure to be a hit. Don’t forget to drizzle with that amazing hot honey glaze—it’s the finishing touch that takes this dish to the next level!

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