Delicious Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders Recipe

Introduction

If you’re craving the perfect balance of sweet and savory, look no further than this Delicious Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders Recipe. Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and coated in a luscious honey garlic glaze, these chicken tenders are the ultimate comfort food. Imagine biting into golden chicken strips with a sticky, flavorful sauce that makes every forkful irresistible. Whether it’s for a family dinner, a weekend treat, or an easy weeknight meal, this recipe guarantees smiles around the table.

The magic lies in the crispy coating paired with the sticky honey garlic sauce—a combination that food lovers everywhere rave about. This recipe not only satisfies cravings but also teaches you the science behind perfectly fried chicken and a balanced glaze. Let’s dive in and create something unforgettable!

Why You’ll Love This Delicious Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders Recipe

• Crispy Perfection: Achieve that golden, crunchy exterior every time.

• Sweet & Savory Balance: Honey and garlic complement each other for irresistible flavor.

• Quick & Easy: From prep to plate in under 45 minutes.

• Family-Friendly: A recipe kids and adults love equally.

• Versatile Serving Options: Great as a main dish, appetizer, or party snack.

• Budget-Friendly Ingredients: Simple pantry staples deliver gourmet taste.

• Customizable: Spice level adjustable with red pepper flakes.

• Healthy Alternatives: Bake instead of fry for a lighter version without losing flavor.

Ingredients

Chicken:

• 1.5 pounds chicken tenders or boneless chicken breasts cut into strips

• 1 cup buttermilk

Dry Coating:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 0.5 cup cornstarch

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• 0.5 teaspoon paprika

• Salt and pepper to taste

Egg Wash:

• 2 eggs, beaten

Frying Oil:

• Vegetable oil for frying

Honey Garlic Sauce:

• 0.5 cup honey

• 4 garlic cloves, minced

• 0.25 cup soy sauce

• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar

• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

• 0.5 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water

Garnish:

• Fresh chopped parsley or cilantro

• Sesame seeds (optional)

Substitutions & Tips:

• Buttermilk alternative: Milk with a tablespoon of lemon juice.

• Flour substitute: Gluten-free flour blend for a GF version.

• Honey alternatives: Maple syrup or agave for vegan-friendly options.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the Chicken

Pat the chicken tenders dry to remove moisture—this is crucial for achieving a crispy coating. Then, marinate the chicken in buttermilk for 15–30 minutes. This tenderizes the meat and adds subtle flavor.

2. Make the Dry Coating

In a large bowl, mix flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. This combination ensures a crunchy exterior while adding depth to the flavor.

3. Coat the Chicken

Set up a dredging station: flour mixture, beaten eggs, then back to flour. Dip each chicken strip in flour, then egg, then flour again for a double coating. This ensures maximum crunchiness when fried.

4. Fry the Chicken

Preheat oil to 350°F (175°C). Fry chicken in batches for 4–5 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Drain excess oil on a paper towel-lined plate.

5. Prepare the Honey Garlic Sauce

Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic until fragrant (~1 minute). Add honey, soy sauce, and vinegar, simmer for 2–3 minutes. For a thicker sauce, stir in cornstarch slurry and cook until desired consistency.

6. Toss & Garnish

Toss crispy chicken in the sauce until evenly coated. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro and sesame seeds. Serve immediately for best results.

Pro Tips

How do I make chicken tenders extra crispy?

Double-coat the chicken and ensure the oil is at 350°F before frying. Avoid overcrowding the pan.

Can I bake instead of frying?

Yes! Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C), spray chicken with oil, and bake for 20–25 minutes until golden.

Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely. The honey garlic sauce can be made 2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before tossing with chicken.

Best Ways to Serve

• Pair with mashed potatoes or steamed rice for a complete meal.

• Serve with vegetable fritters or a fresh salad for a lighter option.

• Turn into sliders using mini buns for party appetizers.

• Add a side of pickled vegetables for tangy contrast.

Nutrition (Per Serving)

• Calories: 350 kcal

• Protein: 28 g

• Carbohydrates: 22 g

• Fat: 15 g

• Saturated Fat: 4 g

• Fiber: 1 g

• Sugar: 12 g

• Sodium: 550 mg

Storage & Leftovers

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

• Freezer: Freeze cooked chicken tenders in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 1 month.

• Reheating: Oven-bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes or until heated through to retain crispiness.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken tenders?

Yes, thaw completely before marinating and frying. Frozen chicken may release extra water, affecting crispiness.

How spicy is this recipe?

Mild by default, but you can add crushed red pepper flakes for a medium kick.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free flour blend and cornstarch for the coating. Soy sauce should also be gluten-free.

What’s the best honey for flavor?

Raw or wildflower honey enhances sweetness without overpowering the garlic.

Variations

• Baked Version: Swap frying for oven-baking to reduce oil content.

• Spicy Honey Garlic: Add sriracha or chili paste to the sauce for heat.

• Asian-Inspired: Garnish with green onions and serve with jasmine rice.

• Air Fryer Option: Cook at 380°F (193°C) for 12–15 minutes for crispiness with less oil.

Conclusion

This Delicious Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders Recipe is the ultimate crowd-pleaser—crispy, sweet, savory, and unforgettable. Perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or just treating yourself, it combines culinary science with comfort-food magic. Unlock the secret to golden, sticky perfection today and elevate your chicken tender game!