best chicken tender recipe
The Best best chicken tender recipe
Oh, honey, there’s nothing quite like a perfectly seasoned batch of chicken tenders that hits the spot—whether it’s a quick weeknight family dinner or a special occasion where you want something crispy, juicy, and just a little bit addictive. I’ve been making these for years, and the secret isn’t just in the breading but in balancing the flavors so they’re not too heavy or too dry. My kids—especially my little one who’s always picky—will eat them straight off the plate, and my husband loves them with a side of ketchup or a fresh salad. They’re perfect for meal prep too, because you can make a big batch and freeze extras for later, and they reheat just as good as they did fresh. Plus, it’s a great way to get protein without feeling like you’re eating a bunch of processed junk. The health benefits? Well, chicken is lean, and if you use whole wheat breadcrumbs or a light dusting of spices, you can keep it pretty balanced without sacrificing all the crunch. It’s that kind of recipe that feels like a treat but isn’t. And honestly? Nothing beats the satisfaction of seeing your whole family digging in after a long day.
Crispy Honey Garlic Glazed Chicken Tenders
Juicy, crispy chicken tenders coated in a sweet and savory honey garlic glaze, perfect for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.
🥘Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast tenders
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 3 tbsp honey
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
👨🍳Directions
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1 Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
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2 In a shallow bowl, mix flour, salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
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3 In a separate bowl, combine honey, soy sauce, olive oil, minced garlic, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and red pepper flakes. Stir well.
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4 Dip each chicken tender into the honey garlic glaze, coating evenly. Place on the prepared baking sheet.
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5 In a large bowl, dip each tender into the flour mixture, ensuring they are fully coated. Place on the baking sheet.
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6 Bake for 15 minutes. Flip the tenders and bake for another 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C).
🔧Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Baking sheet
- Oven
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
- Food processor or mixer (optional for breading)
- Aluminum foil
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Crispy Honey Garlic Glazed Chicken Tenders Works
This recipe is my go-to for any gathering because it’s simple enough to make ahead and still tastes fresh when served, which saves time on busy nights. The perfect blend of crispy coating and juicy meat makes it a crowd-pleaser, whether it’s a casual weeknight meal or a family dinner—no fuss, just great flavor every time. Plus, it’s easy to scale up for bigger groups, so it’s always a hit whether you’re feeding kids or hosting a potluck.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Crispy Honey Garlic Glazed Chicken Tenders
What is the best way to ensure crispy chicken tenders?
For the crispiest chicken tenders, double-fry them—first in a hot oil bath (about 350°F/175°C) for 4-5 minutes until slightly opaque, then transfer to a cooler oil (375°F/190°C) for another 2-3 minutes until golden and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the pan to maintain high heat.
Should I use breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes for coating?
Both work, but crushed cornflakes (like Chex) offer a slightly crispier, less dense texture compared to traditional breadcrumbs. For extra flavor, mix them with garlic powder, paprika, or Parmesan. Breadcrumbs can be heavier but give a classic, sturdy crust.
How can I make chicken tenders extra juicy without drowning them in sauce?
Marinate the chicken tenders in a mix of mayonnaise, yogurt, or Greek yogurt (with lemon juice, garlic, and herbs) for 30+ minutes before frying. This tenderizes the meat while keeping it moist. Avoid overcooking—remove from heat just before they reach 165°F (74°C) internal temp.
Can I use a slow cooker or air fryer for chicken tenders?
Yes! For slow cooker: Toss tenders in seasoned flour or breadcrumbs, then cook on low for 3-4 hours (flipping halfway). For air fryer: Coat in flour or crushed cornflakes, air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway. Both methods yield crispy results with less oil.
What’s the secret to keeping chicken tenders from sticking to the pan?
Use a nonstick pan or lightly grease it with oil or butter. Avoid overcrowding the pan—cook in batches if needed. A high heat setting helps prevent sticking, and a wooden spoon or spatula with a nonstick surface works best for flipping.
