Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders are crisp-fried strips of chicken coated in a sticky, sweet garlic glaze. This dish offers the perfect balance of crunchy and tender textures with a savory-sweet finish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Crispy chicken, bold garlic, and the rich sweetness of honey make these tenders an irresistible dish. They’re ideal for dinner, appetizers, or parties, and can be served with rice, salad, or on their own.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Chicken tenders
- All-purpose flour
- Eggs
- Panko breadcrumbs
- Salt and pepper
- Garlic, minced
- Honey
- Soy sauce
- Rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- Cornstarch
- Water
- Cooking oil (for frying)
Directions
- Season chicken tenders with salt and pepper.
- Dredge each piece in flour, dip in beaten eggs, then coat in panko breadcrumbs.
- Heat oil in a frying pan and fry tenders until golden brown and fully cooked.
- In a saucepan, sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
- Add honey, soy sauce, and vinegar. Bring to a simmer.
- Mix cornstarch with water and stir into the sauce to thicken.
- Toss fried chicken tenders in the honey garlic sauce until fully coated.
- Serve immediately.
Servings and Timing
Serves 4.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Variations
- Bake or air-fry the tenders for a healthier option.
- Add chili flakes or sriracha for heat.
- Use chicken thighs for a juicier texture.
- Try maple syrup instead of honey for a twist.
Storage/Reheating
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes to restore crispness.
FAQs
Can I bake instead of frying?
Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes, flipping halfway.
Is this recipe suitable for children?
Yes, it is mild and flavorful without being spicy.
Can I use boneless chicken thighs?
Yes, they work just as well and offer more moisture.
Can I make it ahead of time?
You can prepare the sauce and breaded tenders ahead; fry and coat just before serving.
What goes well as a side dish?
Steamed vegetables, rice, mashed potatoes, or a simple salad.
Can I freeze the cooked tenders?
Yes, freeze after frying but before coating in sauce for best texture.
What oil is best for frying?
Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point, such as canola or vegetable oil.
How do I keep the tenders crispy?
Let them rest on a wire rack after frying and coat in sauce right before serving.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs, and ensure the soy sauce is gluten-free.
Will the sauce thicken as it cools?
Yes, the sauce will continue to thicken slightly as it stands.
Conclusion
Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders offer a delicious balance of sweet, savory, and crispy. This recipe is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion.
Print
- Total Time: 50 mins
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
These crispy honey garlic chicken tenders are fried to golden perfection and coated in a sticky, sweet, and savory sauce. The ultimate homemade comfort food!
Ingredients
-
1 lb chicken tenders
-
1 cup buttermilk
-
1 cup flour
-
1 tsp paprika
-
Salt & pepper
-
-
Oil for frying
Instructions
-
Marinate chicken in buttermilk for 30 mins.
-
Mix flour, paprika, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
-
Dredge tenders in flour mixture and fry until golden.
-
In a saucepan, combine sauce ingredients and simmer until thick.
-
-
Toss hot tenders in the sauce and serve.
Notes
-
Air-fry or bake for a lighter version.
-
-
Great with rice, fries, or a salad.
- Prep Time: 30 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins