chicken tender recipe crock pot
The Best chicken tender recipe crock pot
Oh, you’re talking about my crock pot chicken tenders? Okay, first of all, I’ve been making these for years—ever since my kids were little and they’d beg for something quick but still tasty after school. They’re the kind of meal that doesn’t require me to stand over them like a mad chef while they cook, and honestly, that’s a huge plus. My boys—now grown but still picky when it comes to dinner—used to love them because they’re easy to eat with their hands, and they don’t get soggy like some other meals. Plus, they’re not all that different from what you’d get at a fast-food place, but with way less grease and way more flavor from the spices I throw in.
I love this recipe because it’s so versatile. You can make a big batch and freeze half for another day, or use it as a base for something else—like adding rice or beans if you’re feeling extra. My family always says they’re the perfect meal for a busy weeknight, but honestly, I’ve used it for all kinds of occasions—birthdays, game days, even just a regular night when I don’t want to stress. The kids will eat them straight from the crock pot, and the adults can add their own seasonings or dips, so there’s no one-size-fits-all here. And the health part? Well, chicken is lean protein, and the spices in this recipe—garlic, paprika, cumin—give it a lot of flavor without a ton of extra calories. It’s not some fancy gourmet dish, but it’s got heart and keeps everyone satisfied.
Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders
Juicy, crispy chicken tenders marinated in a sweet and savory honey garlic sauce, perfect for a quick and flavorful meal. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.
🥘Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken tenders
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 3 tbsp honey
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water
👨🍳Directions
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1 Prep the chicken: Cut chicken tenders into bite-sized pieces. In a shallow bowl, mix flour, salt, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper.
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2 Coat the chicken: Dip each piece of chicken into the flour mixture, ensuring they are fully coated. Place coated chicken in a slow cooker.
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3 Make the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, ketchup, minced garlic, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard. Stir in cornstarch mixed with water.
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4 Cook: Pour the sauce over the chicken in the slow cooker. Cover and cook on low for 3 hours or on high for 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
🔧Equipment
- Slow cooker
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders Works
This chicken tender recipe in the crock pot is always a reliable choice for any family gathering because it’s simple to make ahead and tastes even better the next day. It’s perfect for busy moms who need a hands-off meal that still feels special, and the tender, juicy chicken stays delicious whether you’re serving it at a casual potluck or a cozy dinner with the whole family. Plus, it’s always a hit because everyone loves the familiar taste without the fuss of last-minute cooking.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders
How long should I cook chicken tenders in the crock pot for a tender and juicy result?
Cooking chicken tenders in a slow cooker on the low setting for 3-4 hours or high setting for 1.5-2 hours usually yields the best results. For smaller batches, 2-2.5 hours on high works well, while larger batches may need the longer cook time. Always check for doneness (internal temp of 165°F/74°C) to ensure safety and tenderness.
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Can I add any seasonings or marinades to enhance the flavor of the crock pot chicken tenders?
Absolutely! For extra flavor, marinate the chicken tenders in a mix of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper before adding them to the crock pot. Alternatively, use store-bought marinades like honey mustard, BBQ, or teriyaki. For a simple seasoning, toss the tenders in 1 tbsp of soy sauce, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, and a pinch of black pepper before slow cooking.
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What ingredients should I include in the crock pot for a complete meal?
To make a hearty crock pot meal, combine the chicken tenders with: – 1 cup of diced potatoes (for extra filling) – 1 cup of frozen peas and carrots (for veggies) – 1 cup of chicken broth (or water + bouillon) – 1 tbsp of ketchup or BBQ sauce (for moisture and flavor) – Optional: 1 tbsp of butter or olive oil, 1 tsp dried herbs (thyme, rosemary), and a splash of milk or cream for a creamy sauce.
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Do I need to pre-cook the chicken tenders before putting them in the crock pot?
No, you can cook the chicken tenders directly in the crock pot without pre-cooking. However, if you prefer a more tender texture, you can quickly pan-fry or air-fry them for 3-4 minutes before adding them to the slow cooker. This step is optional and helps prevent dryness.
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What can I serve with crock pot chicken tenders as a side dish?
Crock pot chicken tenders pair well with: – Creamy coleslaw or simple green salad (with a light vinaigrette) – Steamed or roasted vegetables (broccoli, corn, or green beans) – Garlic mashed potatoes or roasted potatoes – Homemade or store-bought rolls or buns for a sandwich-style meal – A simple fruit salad for a lighter option For a complete meal, consider adding a soup like butternut squash or tomato basil to balance the flavors.
