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Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders
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Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders

These Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders are crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and glazed in a sweet, garlicky sauce that’s irresistible. Perfect for dinner, parties, or a savory snack, they balance comfort food with bold flavors and are easy enough for any home cook.
Course Main Course, Snack
Cuisine American, Asian-inspired
Keyword Chicken Recipe, Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders, Quick Dinner, Sweet & Savory
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings 4
Calories 450kcal
Cost $10–12

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowls
  • Shallow dredging dishes
  • Whisk
  • Frying pan or deep skillet
  • Tongs
  • Paper towels
  • Saucepan

Ingredients

  • 1 lb Chicken tenders Or boneless chicken breast cut into strips
  • 1 cup All-purpose flour For dredging
  • 2 Eggs Beaten
  • 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs For crispier texture
  • 1 tsp Salt
  • 1/2 tsp Black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp Garlic powder
  • Vegetable oil For frying (about 1 cup)

For the Honey Garlic Sauce:

  • 1/2 Honey Use raw honey for richer flavor
  • 4 cloves Garlic Minced
  • 2 tbsp Soy sauce Low sodium preferred
  • 1 tbsp Apple cider vinegar Or rice vinegar
  • 1 tsp Cornstarch Mixed with 2 tsp water (slurry)

Instructions

1. Prepare Chicken Tenders

  • Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels.
  • Season flour with salt, pepper, and garlic powder in a shallow bowl.
  • Place beaten eggs in another bowl.
  • Place Panko breadcrumbs in a third bowl.
  • Dredge each tender in flour, dip in egg, then coat in Panko.

2. Fry the Chicken

  • Heat oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat (350°F if using thermometer).
  • Fry tenders in batches, 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  • Drain on paper towels and rest for 5 minutes.

3. Make the Sauce

  • In a small saucepan, sauté garlic in 1 tsp oil over medium heat until fragrant (about 1 minute).
  • Add honey, soy sauce, and vinegar. Stir well and bring to a simmer.
  • Mix cornstarch with water to make slurry and add to the sauce. Stir until thickened (about 2–3 minutes).

4. Glaze the Tenders

  • Toss the fried chicken tenders in the warm honey garlic sauce until evenly coated.
  • Serve immediately.

Notes

Recipe Notes:

  • Make it healthier: Bake the tenders at 400°F for 20 minutes, flipping halfway.
  • Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
  • Substitute: Chicken thighs can be used for juicier meat.
  • Crispier option: Double-dip in egg and breadcrumbs for extra crunch.