crock pot chicken tenders recipe
The Best crock pot chicken tenders recipe
I’ve been making crock pot chicken tenders for years now, and there’s just something about them—simple enough to whip up in a hurry but always a hit with my kids and my husband. We love them because they’re hands-off, which is a game-changer when you’ve got a full house and a busy day.
My kids will eat them straight from the pot, and my husband always asks if we can make them again because they’re so tender and flavorful. It’s a recipe that feels indulgent but actually keeps things balanced, especially since we can control the ingredients.
Click here for: oven baked chicken recipe
This dish is perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a weeknight dinner after school, a weekend family gathering, or even a quick meal when you’re short on time. The crock pot makes it easy to serve a crowd without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s a great way to get protein without the extra fuss of baking or frying.
My kids love how they stay juicy and crispy, and I appreciate that it’s a healthier option than what you’d find in a fast-food drive-thru. It’s not just convenient; it’s a way to make sure everyone gets a good meal without the extra cleanup or the need for a second helping of greasy takeout. And honestly? It’s one of those recipes that feels like a little treat without breaking the bank.
Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders
Tender, juicy chicken tenders infused with 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 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ½ cup honey
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tbsp water
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp dried thyme
👨🍳Directions
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1 Preheat oven to 400°F (if baking) or prepare your slow cooker. In a bowl, mix chicken tenders with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Coat evenly.
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2 In a separate bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, apple cider vinegar, cornstarch, water, Dijon mustard, and thyme.
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3 Place chicken tenders in the slow cooker. Pour the honey garlic sauce over the chicken tenders, ensuring they are well-coated.
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4 Cover and cook on LOW for 3 hours or HIGH for 2 hours, stirring occasionally if using HIGH.
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5 Remove chicken tenders from the slow cooker and serve hot with any remaining sauce on top.
🔧Equipment
- Slow cooker
- Mixing bowls
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders Works
This Crock Pot chicken tenders recipe is always a lifesaver for busy weeknights or family gatherings because it’s simple, hands-off, and still turns out perfectly tender every time. It’s the kind of meal that lets you prep ahead without stress, so you can focus on other things while the slow cooker does the work. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to customize with different seasonings or sauces, making it perfect for any occasion when you need a quick, satisfying dish that won’t leave anyone disappointed.
Click here for: chicken alfredo recipe with egg noodles
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders
What is the best way to prepare crock pot chicken tenders for maximum tenderness?
The best way to ensure tender crock pot chicken tenders is to use a mix of wet and dry seasonings. Start by coating your chicken tenders in a light layer of flour or cornstarch to help them crisp up slightly. Then, toss them in a mixture of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and a small amount of olive oil or butter. Add a splash of broth or a bit of water to the crock pot along with the chicken, and cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours. For extra flavor, you can also add diced bell peppers, onions, or a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce.
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Can I make crock pot chicken tenders ahead of time and reheat them?
Yes, you can make crock pot chicken tenders ahead of time and reheat them safely. Once the chicken is cooked through and cooled, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, transfer the chicken tenders to a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through. Alternatively, you can reheat them in a skillet over medium heat for about 3-5 minutes, adding a splash of water or broth to keep them moist.
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What ingredients should I use to make the crock pot chicken tenders taste like they came from a restaurant?
To achieve restaurant-style crock pot chicken tenders, focus on these key ingredients and techniques: – Marinade: Use a blend of soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, honey, garlic, ginger, and a splash of rice vinegar for a sweet-savory flavor. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes before cooking. – Seasoning: Combine smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and a pinch of cayenne for depth. – Sauce: After cooking, mix the chicken with a homemade sauce made from a combination of ketchup, mustard, mayo, honey, and a touch of hot sauce. Stir well and let it sit for 10 minutes before serving. – Cooking method: Use the “slow cooker” setting on low for 6 hours or high for 3-4 hours. For extra crispiness, finish with a quick pan-sear or air-fryer to brown the edges.
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How do you keep crock pot chicken tenders from getting soggy?
To prevent soggy crock pot chicken tenders, follow these tips: – Pre-coat the tenders: Lightly coat the chicken in flour or cornstarch before seasoning to create a barrier that helps them retain shape. – Use a liquid base wisely: Add just enough broth or water to keep the crock pot from drying out. Avoid overfilling it, as excess liquid can make the chicken watery. – Cook on low: Cooking on low heat allows the moisture to gradually release, keeping the chicken tender rather than steaming it. – Drain excess liquid: If the crock pot has too much liquid, remove the lid halfway through cooking to allow steam to escape. – Finish with a pan: After slow cooking, transfer the chicken to a skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side to crisp up the edges and remove any excess moisture.
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Is it possible to make gluten-free crock pot chicken tenders without sacrificing flavor?
Absolutely! Here’s how to make delicious gluten-free crock pot chicken tenders that still taste great: – Gluten-free flour: Use a blend of gluten-free all-purpose flour (like Bob’s Red Mill 1:1) or a mix of almond flour and tapioca starch for coating. – Gluten-free marinade: Replace soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos, and use gluten-free Worcestershire sauce. Add honey, garlic, ginger, lemon juice, and olive oil for a flavorful marinade. – Seasoning: Use salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and a pinch of cayenne. Avoid any seasoning blends that contain hidden gluten. – Sauce: Mix together gluten-free mayo, mustard, honey, ketchup, and hot sauce for a creamy, flavorful dipping sauce. – Cooking: Follow the same slow-cooking method as before, ensuring the crock pot is well-seasoned and the chicken is tender. For extra crispiness, pan-fry or air-fry the finished product.
