Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders Simple and Tasty Recipe

Craving a dish that's both sweet and savory? Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders are a simple yet delicious option. With easy steps, you can whip up crispy tenders that your whole family will love. I’ll share the secret to making the perfect honey garlic sauce, plus tips to avoid common mistakes. Ready to impress your taste buds? Let’s dive into this tasty recipe and get cooking!

Ingredients

List of Ingredients Needed

To make honey garlic chicken tenders, you will need:

- 1 lb (450g) chicken tenders

- 1/4 cup honey

- 1/4 cup low sodium soy sauce

- 4 cloves garlic, minced

- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated

- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

- 1 tablespoon sesame oil

- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

- 1 tablespoon cornstarch

- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko for extra crunch)

- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

- Sesame seeds (for garnish)

Optional Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap some ingredients if needed:

- Use maple syrup instead of honey for a different sweet flavor.

- Coconut aminos is a great soy sauce alternative for a gluten-free option.

- Fresh ginger can be replaced with ground ginger, but use less.

- For a crunchier coating, try crushed cornflakes instead of breadcrumbs.

- You can skip the sesame oil if you don't have it, but it adds a nice flavor.

Nutritional Information Overview

Here’s a quick look at the nutrition for one serving of honey garlic chicken tenders:

- Calories: Approximately 350

- Protein: 25g

- Carbohydrates: 30g

- Fat: 15g

- Fiber: 1g

- Sugar: 6g

This dish is tasty and provides a good balance of protein and carbs. The honey adds a bit of sugar, but it’s natural. Remember, serving sizes can change these numbers. Enjoying these tenders in moderation fits into a healthy diet!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Detailed Cooking Instructions

1. Start by making the marinade. In a large bowl, mix honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger, apple cider vinegar, sesame oil, and black pepper. Whisk them together well. This mix gives our chicken a sweet and savory flavor.

2. Add the chicken tenders to the bowl. Make sure each piece is well coated. Cover the bowl and put it in the fridge. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes. You can let it sit for up to 2 hours for a stronger taste.

3. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. This will keep your chicken tenders crispy.

4. Prepare the breading setup. In one shallow dish, mix all-purpose flour and cornstarch. In another dish, place the breadcrumbs. I like using panko for a crunchier texture.

5. Take the marinated chicken out of the fridge. Allow excess marinade to drip off each tender. Next, dip each piece in the flour mixture, then into the breadcrumb mixture. Press gently so the crumbs stick well.

6. Place the breaded tenders on the baking sheet. Spray them lightly with cooking spray. This adds extra crunch during baking.

7. Bake the chicken in the oven for 15 to 20 minutes. Flip them halfway through to ensure even cooking. Look for a golden brown color to know they are done.

8. While the chicken bakes, use the leftover marinade. Pour it into a saucepan and bring it to a boil. Lower the heat and let it simmer for about 5 minutes until it thickens a bit.

9. Once the chicken is fully cooked, drizzle the thickened honey garlic sauce over the tenders. This step adds a beautiful glaze and extra flavor.

10. Finally, garnish your chicken tenders. Sprinkle chopped parsley and sesame seeds on top before serving. This makes your dish look great and adds a fresh taste.

Marinating the Chicken

Marinating is key to juicy, flavorful chicken. The marinade helps tenderize the meat and infuses it with taste. I suggest marinating for at least 30 minutes. For even better flavor, try marinating for up to 2 hours. This allows the garlic, honey, and ginger to really soak in.

Baking Tips for Perfect Crispy Tenders

To achieve perfect crispy chicken tenders, follow these tips:

- Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch.

- Make sure to coat the chicken well in the flour and then the crumbs.

- A light spray of cooking oil before baking helps crisp them up.

- Flip the tenders halfway through baking for even color and crunch.

With these steps and tips, your honey garlic chicken tenders will be a hit!

Tips & Tricks

Best Practices for Marinating

Marinating is key for flavor. Here are my tips for great results:

- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger add more taste.

- Time matters: Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes. For best flavor, go for 2 hours.

- Keep it cool: Always marinate in the fridge. This keeps the chicken safe and tasty.

Achieving Crunchy Coating

A crunchy coating makes chicken tenders great. Here’s how to get that perfect crunch:

- Use panko breadcrumbs: They are lighter and crispier than regular breadcrumbs.

- Double dip: Dip chicken in flour, then breadcrumbs. This adds more layers for crunch.

- Spray with oil: Lightly spray the chicken before baking. This helps it brown well.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these mistakes for the best honey garlic chicken tenders:

- Skipping the marinate: Don’t skip this step; it makes a big difference in taste.

- Overcrowding the pan: Give each tender space. This helps them cook evenly and stay crispy.

- Not flipping: Flip the tenders halfway through baking. This ensures both sides get golden brown.

These tips will help you make the most delicious honey garlic chicken tenders. Enjoy cooking!

Variations

Sweet and Spicy Version

To add heat to your honey garlic chicken tenders, mix in some sriracha or chili paste. Start with one tablespoon of sriracha in the marinade. Taste it before you add more. This blend gives a nice kick that pairs well with the sweet honey. You can also add red pepper flakes for an extra crunch.

Gluten-Free Adaptations

If you need a gluten-free option, swap the all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs. Use gluten-free flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs instead. Both options work well and still give you a crispy coating. Make sure to check the soy sauce and choose a gluten-free brand.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

These chicken tenders shine on their own, but they can pair nicely with many sides. Serve them with steamed rice or quinoa for a hearty meal. Fresh veggies like carrots or bell peppers make a great crunch. You could also serve your tenders with a side of sweet potato fries. For dipping, try a creamy ranch or a tangy dipping sauce. The flavors all blend well together, making a tasty plate.

Storage Info

How to Store Leftovers

To store your honey garlic chicken tenders, let them cool first. Place them in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh longer. Store them in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, freezing is a great option.

Reheating Instructions

When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken tenders on a baking sheet. Heat them for about 10-15 minutes, or until they are warm. You can also use a microwave for quick reheating. Just cover them with a damp paper towel to keep them moist. Heat in short bursts, checking often.

Freezing Tips for Chicken Tenders

To freeze chicken tenders, first, let them cool completely. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Make sure to remove as much air as possible. Label the bag with the date. You can freeze them for up to three months. When you want to eat them, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. This keeps the tenders juicy and tasty.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of chicken tenders?

Yes, you can use chicken breast. Just cut the breast into strips. This will give you a similar size to chicken tenders. Keep in mind that cooking time may change. Check the chicken for doneness to ensure it cooks fully.

How do I make the sauce thicker?

To thicken the sauce, add a little cornstarch. Mix one tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of cold water. Stir this into the sauce while it simmers. Let it cook for a few minutes until it thickens. This method gives a nice, rich texture to your honey garlic sauce.

What dips pair well with honey garlic chicken tenders?

Some great dips include ranch, sweet chili sauce, or even a tangy barbecue sauce. Each dip adds its own flavor and makes the meal fun. You can also try a honey mustard sauce for a different twist. These pairings enhance the dish and please your guests.

In summary, this blog post covered all you need to make tasty honey garlic chicken tenders. We discussed key ingredients, cooking steps, and helpful tips for great results. Remember to marinate well for better flavor and avoid common mistakes. You can also tweak the recipe to fit your needs. Try different variations or serve with your favorite dips. Enjoy your crispy chicken tenders and share them with friends. Cooking can be fun and rewarding when you know the right steps. Happy cooking!