recipe for chicken tenders in the crock-pot

The Best recipe for chicken tenders in the crock-pot

Oh, honey, let me tell you—there’s something about slow-cooked chicken tenders that just makes everything better. I’ve been making them in the crock-pot for years, and it’s not just about the taste—it’s about the ease of it. No fuss, no stress, just tender, juicy chicken that falls apart at the touch of a fork. My kids swear by them, especially after a long day of school or sports practice. They’re the kind of meal that feels like a hug for your family’s appetite, and honestly, I can’t get enough of it myself. Plus, it’s a great way to use up chicken breasts that might otherwise get forgotten in the fridge. You can make a big batch and freeze portions for later, or serve them up fresh for a weeknight dinner that still feels like a special occasion. And the best part? It’s healthier than you’d think—less grease than deep-fried tenders, but still packed with flavor. My husband always says it’s the secret to keeping our family fed without the guilt of overindulging. It’s simple, satisfying, and just the right balance of cozy and easy.

Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders

4.6 from 662 votes

Tender, juicy chicken tenders slow-cooked in a sweet and savory honey garlic sauce for a hassle-free meal. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.

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Prep Time20 mins

Cook Time4 hours

Resting Time0 mins

Total Time4 hours 20 mins

Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 380 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Chicken Tenders

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into 1-inch strips)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder

For the Sauce

• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 tbsp honey
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

👨‍🍳Directions

1. 1 Prep the chicken: Cut chicken breasts into 1-inch strips. In a shallow dish, combine flour, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Dip each chicken strip into the flour mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated.
2. 2 Cook the chicken: Place the coated chicken strips in the slow cooker. Pour olive oil into the slow cooker and mix well to coat the chicken evenly.
3. 3 Make the sauce: In a small bowl, mix honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, dried thyme, and red pepper flakes (if using). Pour the sauce over the chicken in the slow cooker.
4. 4 Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 4 hours or HIGH for 3 hours, until chicken is tender and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. 5 Optional broil: For extra crispiness, transfer chicken to a baking sheet and broil for 2-3 minutes at 425°F (220°C) until golden.

🔧Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups
• Knife and cutting board
• Baking sheet (optional, for broiling)

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 380 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18💛Saturated Fat: 3❤️Cholesterol: 85🧂Sodium: 750🌾Total Carbs: 25🥦Dietary Fiber: 1🍬Sugars: 12🥩Protein: 45

📝Notes

Tips: For extra flavor, add a splash of ginger or a pinch of cinnamon to the sauce. Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a richer taste.,Substitutions: Replace honey with maple syrup or agave for a vegan option. Ensure chicken is fully cooked to avoid foodborne illness.,Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

This crock-pot chicken tender recipe is a lifesaver for busy families because it’s hands-off and always delivers juicy, flavorful results without much effort. It’s perfect for gatherings when you need a crowd-pleasing dish that’s quick to prep and easy to serve, especially when kids or guests are hungry after a long day. Plus, the tender texture and simple seasoning make it foolproof—no overcooking, no fuss, just great taste every time.

❓ 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 crock-pot typically takes 3 to 4 hours on LOW or 4 to 5 hours on HIGH. For best results, use a 2-pound bag of frozen chicken tenders (or 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into strips) and add a splash of water or chicken broth (about ½ cup) to prevent drying. Stir once halfway through cooking if possible.

What seasonings or marinades work best for flavorful crock-pot chicken tenders?

Classic seasonings include paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper, but you can also try: – Cajun spice blend (for a smoky kick) – Italian herb mix (oregano, basil, garlic) – BBQ marinade (soy sauce, brown sugar, lime juice, smoked paprika) – Lemon-herb marinade (lemon zest, olive oil, dried dill, thyme) For extra moisture, marinate the chicken in buttermilk, yogurt, or a mix of oil and vinegar for 30 minutes before cooking.

Do I need to pre-cook or marinate the chicken tenders before putting them in the crock-pot?

No, you don’t have to pre-cook, but marinating (especially in buttermilk or oil-based mix) helps tenderize the meat. If using frozen tenders, thaw them slightly (or skip thawing) for faster cooking. If you prefer extra flavor, let them sit in a marinade for 15–30 minutes before adding to the crock-pot.

What should I add to the crock-pot besides the chicken tenders to make a complete meal?

For a hearty crock-pot meal, pair your chicken tenders with: – Crock-pot gravy (deglaze with beef broth, cornstarch slurry, and butter) – Roasted potatoes or sweet potatoes (tossed in olive oil, salt, and rosemary) – Coleslaw or steamed green beans (quick sides) – Creamy mac & cheese (add cooked pasta and cheese mixture after cooking) – Cornbread or garlic bread (for serving alongside) – A fresh salad (mixed greens with balsamic dressing)

Can I make crock-pot chicken tenders with ground chicken instead of cut-up chicken breasts?

Yes! Ground chicken works well in a crock-pot, though it may be slightly drier than cut-up chicken. For best results: – Use 1–1.5 pounds of ground chicken (or turkey for a lighter option). – Add 1–2 tbsp of oil or butter to prevent sticking. – Season generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and a splash of Worcestershire sauce. – Cook on LOW for 4–5 hours or HIGH for 2–3 hours, stirring occasionally. – Mix in 1 cup of cooked rice or pasta at the end for extra moisture.