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This honey garlic chicken tenders recipe transforms simple chicken strips into a glossy, flavor-packed dinner that will have everyone reaching for seconds. The combination of sweet honey and savory garlic creates that irresistible sticky glaze that clings perfectly to each tender.
I created this recipe during a particularly hectic weeknight when I needed something quick but still impressive. My family was so captivated by the aroma while it cooked that they were hovering around the kitchen before I could even call them for dinner.
Ingredients
- All purpose flour: creates a light coating that helps the sauce adhere to the chicken
- Salt and pepper: provide basic but essential seasoning for the chicken
- Chicken tenderloins: cook quickly and stay juicy while having the perfect size for dipping
- Butter: adds richness and helps create the base for our sauce
- Fresh garlic: offers aromatic flavor that dried simply cannot match
- Honey: provides natural sweetness and creates that sticky glaze
- Soy sauce: balances the sweetness with umami depth
- Apple cider vinegar: cuts through the richness with necessary acidity
- Red pepper flakes: add a gentle heat that elevates the entire dish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Coating:
- Mix flour with salt and pepper in a shallow dish until well combined. Dredge each chicken tender thoroughly then shake off excess flour. The thin coating will create a perfect surface for the sauce to cling to later.
- Cook the Chicken:
- Melt half the butter in a hot skillet until bubbling but not brown. Add chicken in a single layer without overcrowding. Cook until golden brown on each side about 2 to 3 minutes per side. The chicken should reach 165°F internally. Work in batches transferring cooked pieces to a clean plate.
- Deglaze the Pan:
- Pour about a quarter cup of water into the empty hot pan. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up all the browned bits from the bottom. These caramelized bits contain concentrated flavor that will enhance our sauce. Let the liquid reduce slightly.
- Create the Sauce:
- Add minced garlic to the pan juices and cook just until fragrant about 30 seconds. Quickly add honey soy sauce vinegar and red pepper flakes before the garlic can burn. Simmer the mixture for 1 to 2 minutes until it begins to thicken slightly.
- Finish the Dish:
- Return all chicken tenders to the pan. Gently turn each piece to coat completely in the glossy sauce. Allow them to simmer together for about a minute so the flavors can meld and the sauce can further thicken.
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The honey in this recipe is truly the star ingredient. I always reach for local raw honey when I can find it the subtle floral notes really shine through in the finished sauce. My daughter once declared these chicken tenders better than any restaurant version which might be the highest compliment a home cook can receive.
Meal Prep Magic
These honey garlic chicken tenders maintain their quality remarkably well when stored properly. After cooling completely place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator where they will stay fresh for up to 3 days. The sauce actually continues to infuse the chicken with flavor making day two almost better than day one. Reheat gently in a covered skillet with a splash of water to rejuvenate the sauce.
Creative Serving Ideas
While rice is the classic pairing for these sticky sweet tenders consider some unexpected sides to elevate your meal. A crunchy Asian slaw provides textural contrast while cooling the palate between bites. Steamed broccoli florets catch extra sauce in their flowery tops making each bite perfect. For a lower carb option butter lettuce cups make these tenders into fun handheld wraps that kids especially enjoy assembling themselves.
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Easy Adaptations
This versatile recipe welcomes customization based on dietary needs or what you have on hand. Gluten free diners can use tamari instead of soy sauce and gluten free flour for dredging. If honey isnt your preference maple syrup creates a different but equally delicious flavor profile. For those who enjoy heat increase the red pepper flakes or add a drizzle of sriracha to the finished dish. The basic technique remains the same regardless of these adjustments.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I make these chicken tenders gluten-free?
Yes! Simply use gluten-free flour for dredging the chicken and substitute tamari sauce for the soy sauce in the honey garlic mixture.
- → How do I know when the chicken tenders are fully cooked?
The chicken tenders are done when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F/74°C. They should have a golden brown exterior and no pink in the center.
- → Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?
Absolutely! Slice boneless chicken breasts into tender-sized strips and follow the recipe as written. You may need to adjust cooking time slightly based on thickness.
- → What can I serve with honey garlic chicken tenders?
These versatile tenders pair beautifully with jasmine rice, noodles, cauliflower rice, steamed vegetables, or a fresh side salad.
- → How spicy is this dish?
With just ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes, it has a mild heat that balances the sweetness. You can adjust the spice level by increasing or omitting the pepper flakes altogether.
- → Can I prepare any components ahead of time?
You can pre-mix the flour coating and prepare the sauce ingredients (but combine them when cooking). The chicken tenders themselves are best cooked just before serving for optimal texture.