Description

There's a reason why chicken tenders remain a beloved dish across all age groups—they’re crispy, tender, and satisfyingly delicious. But when you elevate these humble strips of chicken with the rich flavors of honey and garlic, they become a gourmet experience that delights the senses. Honey garlic chicken tenders are the perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create a dish that’s both comforting and irresistibly flavorful. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a casual get-together, or simply treating yourself, this recipe is sure to impress.

Ingredients

• For the Chicken:
• 1/4 cup (30g) all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 1/2 pounds (650g) chicken tenderloins (mini chicken fillets in the UK)
• For the Sauce:
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce (or tamari sauce for gluten-free)
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice)
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Preparation Method

Prepare the Chicken:
Start by preparing the chicken tenders. In a shallow dish, combine the flour with salt and pepper. Dredge each chicken tenderloin in the flour mixture, ensuring it is well-coated. Shake off any excess flour before setting the tenders aside.

Cook the Chicken:
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Once the butter is melted and sizzling, add the chicken tenders in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Cook each tender for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until a golden-brown crust forms. The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. Add the remaining butter to the skillet and cook the remaining tenders.

Deglaze the Pan:
After all the chicken is cooked, it’s time to deglaze the pan. Add about 1/4 cup of water to the skillet, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom. These bits are full of flavor and will enrich the sauce. Allow the liquid to reduce slightly before moving on to the next step.

Make the Sauce:
To the deglazed pan, add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Next, add the honey, soy sauce (or tamari), apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice), and crushed red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Stir everything together and let the sauce cook for 1-2 minutes until it begins to thicken and becomes glossy.

Combine and Serve:
Return the chicken tenders to the pan, turning them over in the sauce to ensure they are fully coated. Allow the chicken to simmer in the sauce for another minute to soak up all the flavors. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.

Serve:
These honey garlic chicken tenders are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways. They’re delicious over a bed of jasmine rice, noodles, or even cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option. Pair them with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad to round out the meal.

Tips and Conclusion

Extra Tips:
Adjusting the Spice: If you enjoy a bit of heat, don’t hesitate to add more crushed red pepper flakes or even a dash of hot sauce to the honey garlic sauce. The sweetness of the honey balances out the heat beautifully, creating a well-rounded flavor profile.

Crispy Perfection: For those who prefer extra-crispy tenders, consider double-dipping the chicken in the flour mixture before frying. This creates a thicker, crunchier coating that’s sure to satisfy.

Oven-Baking Alternative: If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can bake the chicken tenders instead of frying them. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the breaded tenders on a greased baking sheet for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through until they are golden brown and cooked through.

Conclusion:
Honey garlic chicken tenders offer the perfect balance of sweet and savory, making them a hit at any table. The tender, juicy chicken paired with the sticky, flavorful sauce creates a dish that’s both comforting and indulgent. What’s more, this recipe is incredibly versatile—you can customize the spice level, experiment with different side dishes, or even make it a bit healthier by opting to bake rather than fry.

These chicken tenders aren’t just for kids; they’re a sophisticated twist on a classic that adults will love just as much. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner, preparing appetizers for a party, or simply enjoying a delicious meal at home, honey garlic chicken tenders are a go-to recipe that never disappoints. So why not elevate your next meal with this irresistible combination of flavors? You’ll be glad you did.