recipe using chicken tenders
- The Best recipe using chicken tenders
- Crispy Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders with Sweet Potato Fries
- 🥘Ingredients
- 👨🍳Directions
- 🔧Equipment
- 📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
- 📝Notes
- Watch Video Of How Crispy Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders with Sweet Potato Fries Works
- ❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Crispy Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders with Sweet Potato Fries
The Best recipe using chicken tenders
Chicken tenders are one of those simple, no-fuss meals that just make everything better. I’ve been making them for years, and there’s something about the crispy coating and juicy meat that gets everyone’s appetite going—especially my kids. They’re a staple in our house, whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a make-ahead meal for a game day or family gathering. The thing I love most is how easy they are to customize. You can keep it classic with a simple honey mustard dipping sauce or go all out with a spicy buffalo sauce, baked sweet potato fries, and a fresh green salad. They’re versatile enough to be a light meal or a hearty one, and they’re always a hit.
Health-wise, this recipe is a great balance. The chicken itself is lean protein, which helps keep things full without weighing someone down. And since we’re baking them instead of frying, we cut out all the unnecessary oil that can be so hard to resist. My kids love that they’re not drowning in grease, and it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies if you add them to the mix—like diced bell peppers or onions in the batter. Plus, it’s a way to get them eating more whole foods without them even realizing it. And honestly? It’s a win for everyone.
Crispy Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders with Sweet Potato Fries
Juicy honey garlic chicken tenders paired with crispy baked sweet potato fries for a balanced and flavorful meal. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
🥘Ingredients
- 8 boneless, skinless chicken tenders
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- 1 egg
- 2 tbsp milk
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ¼ cup honey
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, cut into fries
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp smoked paprika
👨🍳Directions
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1 Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
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2 For the chicken tenders: In a shallow bowl, whisk together flour, salt, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. In another bowl, beat the egg with milk.
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3 Dredge each chicken tender in the flour mixture, then dip in the egg mixture, and finally coat in olive oil. Place tenders on the prepared baking sheets, leaving space between them.
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4 For the sweet potato fries: Toss sweet potato fries with olive oil, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Spread them on the second baking sheet in a single layer.
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5 Bake both the chicken tenders and sweet potato fries for 20 minutes, flipping the tenders halfway through, then increase oven temperature to 450°F (230°C) and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
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6 For the honey garlic sauce: In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add olive oil and sauté garlic for 30 seconds. Stir in honey, soy sauce, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard. Simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
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7 Serve the crispy chicken tenders and sweet potato fries with the honey garlic sauce drizzled over the top.
🔧Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Baking sheet
- Oven
- Knife and cutting board
- Food processor (optional)
- Spatula
- Measuring cups
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Crispy Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders with Sweet Potato Fries Works
This chicken tender recipe is always a lifesaver for family gatherings because it’s simple enough to make ahead and still taste fresh when served. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a no-fuss meal, perfect for when you need something quick but still satisfying for everyone—kids, adults, and even picky eaters. Plus, the crispy coating holds up well, making it easy to serve at the table without extra fuss. It’s a reliable crowd-pleaser that never disappoints, whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or just feeding the whole family after school.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Crispy Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders with Sweet Potato Fries
What is the best way to season chicken tenders for maximum flavor?
The best way to season chicken tenders is by using a combination of salt, pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder, paprika, or Italian seasoning. For extra flavor, you can marinate them in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs like parsley or thyme for at least 30 minutes before cooking. Avoid over-seasoning as it can make the tenders taste bland.
How do I ensure my chicken tenders stay juicy while cooking?
To keep chicken tenders juicy, avoid overcooking them. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness at 165°F (74°C). You can also lightly coat them in a mixture of flour and egg wash before pan-frying or baking, which helps retain moisture. Another trick is to let the tenders rest for a few minutes after cooking before serving.
What are some great side dishes to serve with chicken tenders?
Chicken tenders pair well with a variety of sides. Classic options include sweet potato fries, garlic mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette. For something heartier, try roasted vegetables, macaroni and cheese, or a baked potato. A fresh fruit salad or apple slices can also add a refreshing contrast.
Can I make homemade chicken tenders without using breadcrumbs?
Yes! You can create crispy, flavorful chicken tenders without breadcrumbs by using alternative coatings like crushed cornflakes, crushed crackers, crushed nuts, or even almond flour. Another option is to use a mixture of panko breadcrumbs and cornstarch for extra crispiness. Just ensure the coating is well-pattied onto the chicken before cooking.
How long should I cook chicken tenders in the oven or air fryer for perfect results?
For oven-baked chicken tenders, preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and cook for about 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). In an air fryer, set it to 375°F (190°C) and cook for around 8-12 minutes, again checking for doneness. Adjust cooking time slightly based on the thickness of your tenders and air fryer capacity.
