Quick Answer: Honey chipotle chicken crispers are crispy fried chicken tenders tossed in a sweet-spicy glaze, famously served at Chili’s. This copycat recipe uses a double-breading technique with buttermilk and panko breadcrumbs plus a homemade honey chipotle sauce to create an even better version at home—with options for air fryer and gluten-free preparations.
Are you craving that perfect combination of crispy, tender chicken with a sweet and spicy glaze that makes Chili’s honey chipotle chicken crispers so irresistible? Look no further! I’ve spent months perfecting this copycat recipe that not only captures the essence of this beloved restaurant favorite but actually improves upon it with a crispier coating, healthier sauce options, and adaptations for air fryer enthusiasts and those with dietary restrictions.
Whether you’re a die-hard Chili’s fan looking to recreate your favorite dish at home, or simply a food lover in search of a delicious chicken recipe with the perfect balance of sweet heat, this honey chipotle chicken crispers recipe will become your new go-to dinner option. Let’s dive in and discover how to make these mouthwatering chicken tenders that will have your family and friends begging for seconds!
What makes this homemade version superior to the restaurant original? Let me count the ways:
Crispier coating that stays crunchy longer thanks to the double-breading technique and optimal panko-to-flour ratio
Healthier sauce with adjustable heat levels and reduced sugar options
Air fryer-friendly preparation that cuts down on oil while maintaining that perfect crunch
Customizable spice level so you can make it as mild or fiery as you prefer
No mystery ingredients – just wholesome, pronounceable components you control
When you make these honey chipotle chicken crispers at home, you’re not just saving money – you’re upgrading the entire experience with fresher ingredients and techniques that restaurant kitchens simply can’t employ for mass production.
Vegetable oil for frying (or cooking spray for air fryer)
For the Honey Chipotle Sauce:
½ cup honey
¼ cup ketchup
3 tablespoons chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped
2 tablespoons adobo sauce (from the can of chipotles)
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
2 cloves garlic, minced
½ teaspoon cumin
Salt to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
How to Bread the Chicken
In a medium bowl, whisk together buttermilk and eggs.
In a separate bowl, combine flour, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, ½ teaspoon paprika, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon pepper.
In a third bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs with remaining spices.
Set up your breading station in this order: flour mixture, buttermilk mixture, panko mixture.
Dip each chicken tender first in flour (shaking off excess), then buttermilk, and finally panko, pressing gently to adhere.
For extra crispiness, double-coat by repeating the buttermilk and panko steps.
Place breaded tenders on a wire rack and let rest for 10 minutes to help the coating set.
Frying vs. Air Frying
Traditional Frying Method:
Heat oil in a large, deep skillet to 350°F (use a thermometer for accuracy).
Carefully add chicken tenders in batches, avoiding overcrowding.
Fry for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Air Fryer Method:
Preheat air fryer to 380°F.
Lightly spray the breaded chicken tenders with cooking oil.
Arrange in a single layer in the air fryer basket (work in batches if needed).
Cook for 6 minutes, flip, then cook an additional 6-7 minutes until crispy and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Making the Honey Chipotle Glaze
In a small saucepan, combine all sauce ingredients.
Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes until slightly thickened.
If you prefer a smoother sauce, blend with an immersion blender.
Taste and adjust heat by adding more adobo sauce or sweetness with additional honey.
Toss fried chicken tenders in the warm sauce just before serving, or serve sauce on the side for dipping.
Pro Tips for Perfect Crispers
Double-coat the chicken for the crunchiest exterior that rivals any restaurant version
Use buttermilk not just for flavor but for its magical tenderizing properties
Don’t skip the resting period after breading – this helps the coating adhere
Maintain proper oil temperature – too hot and the outside burns before the inside cooks; too cool and your crispers absorb too much oil
Make the sauce ahead of time to let the flavors develop (it keeps for up to a week in the refrigerator)
Reserve some plain tenders for picky eaters who may not appreciate the spice
Finely chop the chipotle peppers for a more evenly distributed heat without big spicy surprises
FAQs (Answered by a Chef)
Can I make these gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free flour blend, use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs, and swap soy sauce for tamari or coconut aminos in the sauce. The texture might be slightly different, but still deliciously crispy.
How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store leftover chicken crispers separate from the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat in a 350°F oven or air fryer at 370°F for 3-4 minutes until heated through and crispy again. Microwave reheating will result in soggy breading.
These versatile crispers pair wonderfully with fresh corn on the cob, coleslaw, sweet potato fries, cilantro-lime rice, or a crisp green salad to balance the sweet-spicy flavors. For a complete Chili’s-inspired meal, serve with their famous corn and black bean salsa.
Why are my chicken crispers soggy?
Several factors could cause sogginess: oil temperature too low during frying, overcrowding the pan, not draining properly, or saucing the chicken too far in advance. For maximum crispiness, sauce the tenders right before serving or serve the sauce on the side.
Can I bake instead of fry?
Yes! Preheat your oven to 425°F, place breaded tenders on a wire rack over a baking sheet, spray with cooking oil, and bake for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through. While not quite as crispy as fried or air-fried versions, they’ll still be delicious.
Dietary Modifications
Keto-Friendly Version
Replace flour with almond flour and panko with crushed pork rinds. For the sauce, substitute the honey with a keto-friendly sweetener like monk fruit and reduce or eliminate the ketchup (or use a no-sugar version).
Dairy-Free Chipotle Sauce
Make a dairy-free “buttermilk” by adding 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to your favorite plant-based milk and letting it sit for 10 minutes. The rest of the sauce ingredients are naturally dairy-free.
Lower-Carb Alternative
Focus on the protein and sauce by skipping the breading altogether. Season chicken tenders with the same spices, grill or pan-sear until cooked through, then toss in the honey chipotle sauce for a lighter but equally flavorful dish.
The beauty of these honey chipotle chicken crispers is not just their incredible flavor – it’s their versatility. Whether you’re looking for a healthier honey chipotle chicken crispers option using the air fryer method, or you’re specifically interested in perfecting that honey chipotle sauce recipe for chicken crispers that balances sweet and heat perfectly, this recipe delivers on all fronts.
I’d love to hear your experiences with this recipe! Did you try any modifications? Was the spice level just right? Share your twist on these crispers in the comments below, and don’t forget to tag us in your mouth-watering photos on social media for a chance to be featured!
Looking for more copycat recipes? Check out our [Best Air Fryer Chicken Recipes] and [Copycat Restaurant Sauces] collections for more inspired cooking!
This recipe was tested and perfected by our team of professional chefs and home cooks. Please follow USDA guidelines for proper chicken cooking temperatures (minimum 165°F internal temperature) to ensure food safety.
