Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders are a delectable fusion of sweet and savory flavors that create a mouthwatering experience with every bite. These tenders are coated in a crispy breadcrumb mixture, then baked to golden perfection. Once cooked, they are generously tossed in a luscious honey garlic sauce made from honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, and a hint of apple cider vinegar. This combination results in a delightful contrast between the crunchy exterior and the tender, juicy chicken inside. The sauce adds a glossy, sticky finish that clings to the tenders, making each bite incredibly flavorful and satisfying.
Perfect for a family dinner, party appetizer, or even a meal prep option, these Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders are versatile and crowd-pleasing. They pair wonderfully with a variety of sides, such as steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad, and can be garnished with green onions or sesame seeds for an extra touch of flavor and presentation.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is straightforward and easy to follow, ensuring that you can create a restaurant-quality dish right at home. The balance of sweetness from the honey and the savory depth from the garlic and soy sauce makes these chicken tenders a favorite for all ages. Enjoy the perfect harmony of flavors with this delicious and easy-to-make dish!
Ingredients
For the Chicken Tenders:
- 1 pound chicken tenders
- 1 cup flour
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
For the Honey Garlic Sauce:
- 1/2 cup honey
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken Tenders:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In three separate bowls, place the flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs mixed with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
- Dip each chicken tender first in flour, then in beaten eggs, and finally coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
- Place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake the Chicken Tenders:
- Bake the chicken tenders in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
- Prepare the Honey Garlic Sauce:
- In a small saucepan, combine honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, and apple cider vinegar. Cook over medium heat until the mixture starts to simmer.
- Stir in the cornstarch mixture and cook until the sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat.
- Combine and Serve:
- Toss the baked chicken tenders in the honey garlic sauce until they are well coated.
- Serve the Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders hot, garnished with chopped green onions or sesame seeds if desired.
Tips
- For Extra Crispiness: You can double-dip the chicken tenders in the egg and breadcrumb mixture for an extra crispy coating.
- Sauce Variations: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the honey garlic sauce for a spicy kick.
- Serving Suggestions: These tenders pair well with steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.
