Name: Irresistible Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders – Quick Comfort Delight
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 75 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Chicken Tenderloins (Use boneless, skinless thighs for extra juiciness.); 1 cup Buttermilk (Seasoned yogurt is a substitute if needed.); 1 cup All-Purpose Flour (Use gluten-free flour to cater to dietary needs.); 1/4 cup Cornstarch (Essential for achieving ideal texture.); 1 teaspoon Paprika (Optional if a simpler flavor profile is preferred.); 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder (Fresh minced garlic can provide a bolder flavor.); 1 teaspoon Salt; 1 teaspoon Black Pepper; 2 cups Oil for Frying (High smoke point oils like vegetable or canola are best.); 1/2 cup Honey (Maple syrup can be used as a vegan alternative.); 1/4 cup Soy Sauce (Use tamari for gluten-free option.); 2 cloves Garlic (minced); 2 tablespoons Apple Cider Vinegar (Rice vinegar can work as a substitute.); 1/2 teaspoon Chili Flakes (Adjust or omit based on spice preference.); 1 tablespoon Cornstarch (for sauce); 1/4 cup Water; 1 tablespoon Fresh Parsley or Cilantro (Add a pop of freshness.); 1 tablespoon Sesame Seeds (Optional for texture and presentation.)

As I stood in my kitchen, the enticing aroma of honey simmering with garlic wafted through the air, instantly making my stomach growl in anticipation. Enter my crispy Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders—a dish that not only captures the essence of comfort food but also brings a stunning balance of crunch and juiciness. Perfect for a quick dinner or an easy game-day appetizer, these tenders are your new go-to meal that satisfies even the pickiest eaters. With minimal prep and the option for a gluten-free alternative, this recipe is all about convenience without sacrificing flavor. Are you ready to elevate your weeknight dinners? Let me show you how!

Why Are Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders Irresistible?

Crispy Texture: These tenders boast a golden, crunchy coating that contrasts beautifully with the juicy chicken inside.

Flavor Explosion: The rich honey garlic sauce infuses every bite with sweetness and a touch of umami, ensuring your taste buds are in for a treat.

Quick & Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, they make a perfect option for those hectic weeknights when time is of the essence.

Versatile Dish: Whether served as a game-day appetizer or with steamed rice for dinner, these tenders fit any occasion.

Gluten-Free Option: Easily adapt this recipe to be gluten-free, making it inclusive for those with dietary restrictions.

Embrace the joy of homemade comfort food with these Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders, and I promise they’ll be a hit at your dinner table!

Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders Ingredients

The perfect balance of flavors and textures awaits you!

For the Chicken

Chicken Tenderloins – The star of the dish; juicy and tender. For extra juiciness, use boneless, skinless thighs instead.
Buttermilk – Acts as a tenderizer for the chicken. Seasoned yogurt is a great substitute if needed.

For the Coating

All-Purpose Flour – Creates that irresistible crispy coating. Use gluten-free flour to cater to dietary needs.
Cornstarch – Enhances crispiness for that perfect crunch. This ingredient is essential for achieving the ideal texture.
Paprika – Adds a mild smokiness and vibrant color. Optional if you prefer a simpler flavor profile.
Garlic Powder – Boosts the savory flavor with delicious notes. Fresh minced garlic can provide a bolder punch.
Salt and Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning and enhancing overall flavor.

For the Frying

Oil for Frying – Necessary for that golden, crispy exterior. Choose a high smoke point oil like vegetable or canola.

For the Sauce

Honey – Sweetens the sauce and creates a sticky glaze. Maple syrup can work as a vegan alternative.
Soy Sauce – Adds depth and a touch of umami flavor. Use tamari for a gluten-free option.
Garlic (minced) – Fresh garlic for a robust flavor in the sauce.
Apple Cider Vinegar – Balances the sweetness with a tangy kick. Rice vinegar can be a suitable substitute.
Chili Flakes – Introduces a mild heat to the sauce. Feel free to adjust or omit based on your spice preference.
Cornstarch (for sauce) – Thickens the sauce for that glossy finish.
Water – Mix with cornstarch to activate its thickening properties.

For Garnishing

Fresh Parsley or Cilantro – Add a pop of freshness to your dish.
Sesame Seeds – Optional, for a delightful texture and presentation.

Get ready to savor every bite of these Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders

Step 1: Marinate Chicken
Start by placing the chicken tenderloins in a bowl and covering them generously with buttermilk. Let the chicken soak for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator; for optimal flavor and tenderness, consider marinating overnight. This step is crucial for achieving juicy and succulent Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders.

Step 2: Prepare Coating
While the chicken is marinating, prepare your coating by mixing together all-purpose flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper in a separate bowl. This flavorful mixture will create a perfectly crispy outer layer. Ensure all dry ingredients are well combined for even coverage when you bread the chicken.

Step 3: Bread Chicken
Once the marinating time is up, remove the chicken from the buttermilk, allowing any excess to drip off. Dredge each piece thoroughly in your prepared flour mixture, ensuring that all sides are evenly coated. The coating will help create that irresistible crunch in your Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders. Set aside the breaded chicken on a plate.

Step 4: Cook Chicken
For frying, heat your oil in a deep skillet or frying pan to 350°F (175°C). Gently place the breaded chicken tenders in the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 4-5 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and crispy. If using an air fryer, preheat it to 400°F (200°C), lightly spray with oil, and cook the chicken tenders in batches for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through until perfectly crispy.

Step 5: Make Sauce
While the chicken is cooking, prepare the honey garlic sauce by combining honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, apple cider vinegar, and chili flakes in a saucepan. Heat this mixture over medium heat until it begins to bubble gently. In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with water, then stir it gradually into the sauce until it thickens and becomes glossy.

Step 6: Coat Tenders
After cooking, transfer the crispy chicken tenders to a large mixing bowl. Pour the warm honey garlic sauce over them, making sure each piece is generously coated in the delightful mixture. Toss gently but thoroughly so that the sauce clings to all sides of the Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders, creating a flavorful glaze.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve
To finish, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley or cilantro and sesame seeds over the coated chicken tenders for an extra burst of flavor and visual appeal. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce, alongside steamed rice, or fresh veggies. Enjoy the warmth and comfort of these irresistible Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders!

Storage Tips for Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To enjoy them at their best, reheat in an air fryer or oven to regain crispiness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked chicken tenders (without sauce) for up to 2 months. Ensure they are well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, bake or air fry the frozen tenders at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through and crispy again.

Sauce Storage: Store any leftover honey garlic sauce in a separate airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week. Reheat gently before serving.

Helpful Tricks for Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders

Marination Matters: Allow chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes in buttermilk for optimal tenderness. Overnight is even better for infused flavor!
Coat Properly: Ensure the chicken is thoroughly dredged in the flour mixture to achieve that desired crispy coating. Any bare spots will lead to sogginess.
Fry in Batches: Avoid overcrowding the pan when cooking. This ensures even cooking and crispiness, so fry in small batches for the best results.
Sauce Simmer: Keep the sauce on low heat until bubbling gently. Overheating can burn the honey, resulting in a less desirable flavor for your Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders.
Fresh Garnish: Always add chopped parsley or cilantro just before serving. This adds a burst of freshness and enhances the dish’s visual appeal.

What to Serve with Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders

Transform your meal into a delightful feast that perfectly complements the sweet and savory notes of your chicken tenders.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their buttery smoothness provides a comforting contrast to the crunchy tenders, making every bite delightful. A drizzle of gravy can elevate the flavors.
Steamed Broccoli: Crisp-tender and vibrant, this veggie adds a fresh touch, balancing the richness of the honey garlic sauce while contributing essential nutrients.
Garlic Rice: Infused with aromatic garlic, this side is a flavor powerhouse that pairs beautifully with chicken, soaking up all the delicious sauce while adding a nourishing element.
Coleslaw: With its crunchy texture and tangy dressing, coleslaw introduces brightness and freshness, cutting through the sweetness of the tenders while offering a satisfying crunch.
Sweet and Sour Dipping Sauce: A delightful option that amplifies the flavors already present in the dish, it adds a zesty twist to each tender, enhancing the sweet heat of the honey garlic sauce.
Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Roasted to perfection, these bite-sized greens add a beautiful crunch and a slightly nutty flavor, balancing the dish with their earthy notes.
Iced Green Tea: This refreshing beverage offers a gentle herbal flavor that cools the palate between bites, beautifully complementing the honey and garlic signature of the dish.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A colorful medley of fresh fruits brings a burst of natural sweetness, providing a light counterbalance to the savory and sticky chicken tenders.
Chocolate Chip Cookies: For dessert, indulge in warm cookies that bring a classic touch to your meal, offering the perfect sweet ending to your feast that echoes the honey notes.

Make Ahead Options

These Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken in buttermilk up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring maximum tenderness and flavor. Additionally, you can bread the chicken tenders and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain their crispy texture, it’s best to cook the tenders just before serving. When ready to enjoy, simply fry or air fry them as directed, and prepare your honey garlic sauce fresh to drizzle over the crispy tenders. This way, you’ll have delicious, homemade comfort food with minimal effort during your busy week!

Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine and customize these tenders to match your taste buds!

Boneless Thighs: Replace chicken tenderloins with boneless skinless thighs for an even juicier option. They will add a delightful tenderness that pairs perfectly with the honey garlic flavor.
Extra Sweetness: Increase the amount of honey in the sauce for a sweeter glaze that enhances the dish’s comforting vibe. A little more sweetness takes these tenders to a whole new level!
Gluten-Free: Swap soy sauce for tamari to make a delicious gluten-free version. This slight change allows everyone to enjoy these irresistible tenders without worry.
Heat Adjustment: Modify the spiciness by adding more chili flakes or omitting them entirely for a milder flavor. This way, you can cater the heat level to your family’s preferences.
Herb Infusion: Experiment by adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary into the sauce for an aromatic twist. The added depth from the herbs will delight your senses and elevate the flavor.
Crispy Panko: For an extra crunch, replace all-purpose flour with panko breadcrumbs. The texture will be even crispier, turning your chicken tenders into a spectacular treat.
Sweet & Spicy: Incorporate sriracha or your favorite hot sauce into the honey garlic mixture for a zesty kick. This spicy take makes for an exciting combination that will wake up your taste buds.
Veggie-Loaded: Add finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini directly into the sauce. This not only enhances the flavor but adds a colorful twist to your tenders, making them even more appealing.

No matter how you choose to tweak this recipe, each variation is guaranteed to impress! Enjoy serving these Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders with a lovely side of steamed rice or a fresh garden salad. With these variations, there are endless ways to make it your own and keep the family coming back for more comfort food!

Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders Recipe FAQs

What is the best way to choose chicken tenderloins?
Absolutely! When selecting chicken tenderloins, look for pieces that are pink in color with no dark spots or signs of discoloration. Fresh chicken should have a pleasant aroma, and if you’re opting for frozen tenders, ensure they are solidly frozen without any freezer burn.

How should I store leftover Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders?
For sure! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to maintain their crispy texture, reheat them in an air fryer or oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes. This way, they’ll retain their crunchiness!

Can I freeze the cooked chicken tenders?
Yes, indeed! For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders (without sauce) for up to 2 months. Just make sure they are well-wrapped in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer-safe bag to avoid freezer burn. When ready to eat, reheat directly from the freezer in your air fryer or oven.

What should I do if my chicken tenders are not crispy?
No worries! If your chicken tenders aren’t crispy, it could be due to overcrowding in the frying pan or air fryer. Always fry in small batches to allow even cooking. Additionally, make sure to properly coat every side of the chicken, and avoid any excess moisture on the surface before breading.

Are there any allergy considerations with this recipe?
Very good question! This recipe contains gluten due to all-purpose flour and soy sauce, which can be swapped out for gluten-free flour and tamari, respectively. Always check for allergies to ingredients like garlic, honey, or soy. If serving to pets, refrain from giving them any chicken tenders because ingredients like honey and garlic can be harmful to dogs.

How can I make Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders spicier?
The more the merrier! To add some heat, increase the amount of chili flakes in the honey garlic sauce. If you love spicy food, you can even add some hot sauce or sriracha to the sauce for an extra kick, just adjust to your heat preference!