If you’re craving a dish that bursts with sweet, savory, and garlicky goodness, then this Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders Recipe is going to be your new go-to. Tender chicken pieces coated in a crispy layer, glazed with a sticky honey garlic sauce, and finished with a hint of spice make every bite an absolute delight. It’s incredibly simple to put together but feels so special, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or even when you want to impress friends without fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—each ingredient is carefully chosen to build layers of flavor, texture, and color without overwhelming your pantry. These staples come together harmoniously to create a dish that’s satisfying and vibrant.
- 1 lb chicken tenders or sliced chicken breasts: The star of the dish, providing tender, juicy bites that soak up the sauce beautifully.
- 1/2 cup cornstarch or all-purpose flour: Helps create that irresistible crispy coating on the chicken for a perfect contrast to the glaze.
- 2 tablespoons oil (for frying): Essential for achieving a golden, crunchy exterior without sogginess.
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds richness and depth to the honey garlic sauce, making it silky and indulgent.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Brings that signature punch of bright, aromatic flavor that defines the dish.
- 1/4 cup honey: Provides natural sweetness that balances out the savoriness and ties everything together.
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce: Adds salty umami notes that deepen the overall taste profile.
- 1/4 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional): A subtle kick for those who love a bit of heat with their sweet and savory.
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley or green onion (for garnish): Offers a refreshing pop of color and fresh herbaceous flavor to finish the dish.
How to Make Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
Start by patting your chicken tenders dry—this is key for achieving that crispy coating later. Then, toss each piece evenly with cornstarch or flour, shaking off any excess to avoid clumps. This simple step sets the foundation for a delightfully crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the glossy sauce.
Step 2: Fry the Chicken
Heat your oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Carefully add the coated chicken tenders and cook them for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side until they develop a golden-brown crust and are cooked through. Once done, set them aside to rest—a necessary pause before glazing.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
Lower your skillet to medium heat, then add the butter and minced garlic right into the pan. Sauté gently until the garlic becomes fragrant and just starts to turn golden. This aromatic base will infuse your sauce with irresistible richness and garlicky warmth.
Step 4: Combine the Glaze Ingredients
Next, pour in the honey, soy sauce, and if you like, sprinkle in some red chili flakes for a slight heat boost. Stir everything together and let it simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until it thickens slightly, turning into a luscious glaze that clings to the chicken perfectly.
Step 5: Coat the Chicken in Sauce
Return your crispy chicken tenders to the skillet and gently toss them in the warm honey garlic glaze. Let them cook for about a minute, ensuring every bite is generously coated in that sticky, flavorful sauce.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Finally, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley or green onions to add a fresh, vibrant note and a pop of color. Serve immediately to enjoy the perfect contrast of crispy chicken and glossy sauce in each mouthful.
How to Serve Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders Recipe
Garnishes
While the classic parsley or green onions add brightness, you can also try a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for a nutty crunch or a few fresh cilantro leaves for a burst of herbal freshness. These little touches elevate the dish without overpowering the harmonious flavors.
Side Dishes
Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders pair wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice or fluffy quinoa to soak up all that luscious sauce. For a lighter option, serve alongside a crisp green salad or some stir-fried seasonal veggies like broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas to add color and nutrition to your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Wondering how to serve up this Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders Recipe for a crowd? Try stacking the tenders on a bed of buttery mashed potatoes or tuck them into soft lettuce wraps for a fun, handheld meal. They also make a delightful protein-packed topping for noodles or even a vibrant grain bowl for lunch or dinner.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (and let’s be honest, that might be rare), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it easy to enjoy this dish the next day without starting from scratch.
Freezing
These chicken tenders freeze beautifully. Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, separated by parchment paper to prevent sticking. Frozen, they’ll maintain great flavor and texture for up to 2 months—perfect for quick meals on busy days.
Reheating
For the best texture when reheating, warm the tenders gently in a skillet over medium heat. This helps maintain their crispiness while gently warming the sauce. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can make the coating soggy and the sauce less glossy.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?
Absolutely! Sliced chicken breasts work just as well if tenders aren’t available. Just make sure they’re cut into similar-sized pieces for even cooking and enjoy the same delicious results.
Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Use cornstarch instead of all-purpose flour for the coating and choose gluten-free soy sauce. This swap keeps all the flavor while accommodating gluten sensitivities.
Can I make this Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders Recipe without frying?
While frying gives you that irresistible crispiness, you can bake the chicken in the oven at 400°F for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through. Toss with the sauce afterward for a lighter option.
How spicy is this recipe with the chili flakes?
The red chili flakes add just a subtle warmth, not overwhelming heat. Feel free to adjust or omit them entirely depending on your heat tolerance and preferences.
What can I substitute for honey?
If you don’t have honey on hand, maple syrup or agave nectar make great substitutes that maintain the sweet profile and glossy texture in the sauce.
Final Thoughts
Trust me when I say this Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders Recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. It’s the kind of dish that feels comforting and indulgent but comes together effortlessly, making every meal feel special without a ton of fuss. So go ahead, give it a try, and watch it wow your family and friends with those perfect sweet and savory bites. You’ll be reaching for this recipe again and again!
Print
Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders are a quick and flavorful dish featuring crispy pan-fried chicken coated in a luscious honey garlic glaze. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, this recipe combines the sweetness of honey, the savory depth of soy sauce, and the aromatic punch of garlic to create an irresistible meal served garnished with fresh parsley or green onion.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 lb chicken tenders or sliced chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup cornstarch or all-purpose flour
For Frying
- 2 tablespoons oil (for frying)
Honey Garlic Sauce
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)
Garnish
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley or green onion
Instructions
- Prepare Chicken: Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels. Coat each piece evenly with cornstarch or flour to ensure a crispy exterior. Shake off any excess coating before frying.
- Pan-Fry Chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the coated chicken tenders and pan-fry them for 3–4 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown and are fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic: Reduce heat to medium. In the same skillet, add 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter and the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Make the Glaze: Stir in 1/4 cup honey, 2 tablespoons soy sauce, and 1/4 teaspoon red chili flakes if using. Let the mixture simmer for 2–3 minutes until it thickens slightly into a glaze.
- Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the cooked chicken tenders to the skillet. Toss them in the honey garlic glaze, cooking for an additional minute to ensure the chicken is fully coated and heated through.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped parsley or green onion over the chicken. Serve immediately while hot for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, double dredge the chicken by dipping back into milk or beaten egg before coating with cornstarch or flour.
- Adjust the red chili flakes to your preferred spice level or omit if you prefer a milder flavor.
- Use low-sodium soy sauce for a less salty dish.
- This recipe can be easily doubled to serve more people.
- Serve with steamed rice or vegetables for a balanced meal.
