recipe for chicken tenders in crock pot
The Best recipe for chicken tenders in crock pot
Oh, this Crock Pot chicken tenders recipe is one of those rare finds—a meal that’s so simple yet makes everything feel special. I love it because it’s foolproof, meaning no stress when I’m running late or have little ones who need a quick, satisfying dinner. My kids—especially the ones who used to turn their noses up at anything with breadcrumbs—will eat these straight from the crock pot. They’re crispy on the outside, tender inside, and packed with flavor without being greasy. Plus, it’s a game-changer for busy weeknights or when we’re hosting a little get-together. No fancy techniques, just good, solid food that everyone actually enjoys.
What I adore most about this recipe is how it balances health and indulgence. The breadcrumbs aren’t heavy like store-bought ones, and the spices add depth without overpowering. My kids love that they’re not drowning in sauce—just a little glaze that makes them taste like they were made with love, not processed shortcuts. And because it’s slow-cooked, the chicken stays juicy and easy to eat, which is always a win. It’s not just a meal; it’s something that feels like a treat, whether we’re serving it up for a family dinner or keeping it in the freezer for a last-minute weeknight fix. Plus, the crock pot does all the work, so I don’t have to stand over it like I used to with stovetop dishes. It’s the kind of recipe that makes life easier without sacrificing taste.
Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders
Juicy, crispy chicken tenders infused with a sweet and savory honey garlic sauce, perfectly cooked in the slow cooker for hands-off convenience. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.
🥘Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken tenders
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ cup honey
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 cup chopped bell peppers
- 1 cup cooked brown rice or cauliflower rice
👨🍳Directions
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1 Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) if baking separately. In a shallow dish, combine honey, soy sauce, garlic, ketchup, vinegar, mustard, paprika, onion powder, and black pepper. Stir well.
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2 Pat chicken tenders dry with paper towels. Coat each tender in olive oil, then dip in the honey garlic sauce, pressing gently to adhere. Place in a slow cooker.
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3 Add optional veggies (carrots, bell peppers) and rice to the slow cooker. Cover and cook on LOW for 3 hours or HIGH for 2 hours.
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4 For extra crispiness, transfer chicken to a baking sheet and broil for 3–5 minutes. Serve hot with remaining sauce drizzled on top.
🔧Equipment
- Slow cooker
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups
- Knife and cutting board
- Garlic press or mincer
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders Works
This recipe for crock pot chicken tenders is always a lifesaver for busy nights or family gatherings because it’s foolproof—no last-minute stress, just tender, flavorful bites ready in minutes. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or feeding a crowd, these tenders stay juicy and crispy without fuss, making them perfect for any occasion where you want something easy yet impressive. Plus, the hands-off cooking means you can focus on other tasks, and the kids will love them as much as the grown-ups.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders
What is the best way to prepare crispy chicken tenders in a crock pot?
To achieve crispy chicken tenders in a crock pot, you should start by coating the chicken tenders with a mixture of flour, breadcrumbs, and a small amount of cornstarch or baking powder. This combination helps create a thicker, crispier crust. After coating, you can either pan-fry the tenders briefly to get them golden before placing them in the crock pot, or directly place them in the crock pot after coating. Use a marinade or sauce that complements the crispy texture, such as BBQ, honey mustard, or a simple lemon pepper seasoning.
How long does it slow cooker chicken tender recipe take?
The slow cooking time for chicken tenders in a crock pot depends on the size of the tenders and the setting used. Typically, it takes about 4 to 6 hours on low or 2 to 3 hours on high. For smaller pieces, 3 hours on high may suffice, while larger tenders might need the full 6 hours on low to ensure they are fully cooked through and tender.
What are some great sauces or seasonings to pair with crock pot chicken tenders?
Pairing the right sauce or seasoning enhances the flavor of your crock pot chicken tenders. Here are some popular options: – BBQ Sauce: Adds a sweet and tangy kick. – Honey Mustard: A creamy, slightly sweet glaze. – Lemon Pepper: Bright and zesty for a fresh twist. – Teriyaki: A sweet and savory Asian-inspired option. – Garlic Parmesan: Rich and herby for an Italian-inspired dish. – Spicy Cajun: For a bold, flavorful heat. – Simple Seasoning: Just salt, pepper, and a dash of paprika or garlic powder.
For extra flavor, you can mix a little of your preferred sauce with the crock pot liquid or drizzle it over the top before serving.
Can I make chicken tenders in a crock pot without frying them first?
Yes, you can make crispy chicken tenders in a crock pot without frying them beforehand, though the texture may not be as crispy as when fried. To help achieve a slightly crispier result: – Use a thicker breadcrumb or coating mixture (like crushed cornflakes mixed with breadcrumbs). – Add a little oil to the crock pot before adding the chicken. – Cook on high heat for a shorter duration (2.5 to 3 hours) and stir halfway through. – For extra crispiness, broil the tenders for a few minutes after cooking if possible.
What ingredients should I have on hand for making crock pot chicken tenders?
Here’s a list of essential ingredients and items you’ll need to make crock pot chicken tenders: – Chicken tenders (fresh or frozen) – Breadcrumbs (or crushed crackers like saltines, pretzels, or cornflakes for extra crunch) – Flour (for dredging) – Cornstarch or baking powder (for extra crispiness) – Oil (for greasing the crock pot) – Seasonings: salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, or any preferred herbs/spices – Marinade or sauce (BBQ, honey mustard, lemon pepper, etc.) – Optional: Egg wash (for extra crispiness), lemon juice, or a splash of hot sauce – Optional: Garlic, ginger, or other flavor boosters (like soy sauce, Worcestershire, or Dijon mustard) in the crock pot liquid.
