Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 20 minutes, making it ideal for hectic schedules.

• One-Pan Preparation: Minimal cleanup with everything cooked in a single skillet.

• Balanced Flavors: The sweet honey pairs perfectly with savory garlic and soy sauce.

• Kid-Friendly: A dish that appeals to both children and adults alike.

Ingredients

• 1 pound (450g) chicken tenderloins

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 2 tablespoons butter, divided

• 2 teaspoons paprika

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• ¼ cup honey

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce

• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken tenderloins dry with paper towels. Season both sides with paprika, salt, and black pepper.

2. Sear the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken tenders and cook for approximately 3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

3. Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

4. Prepare the Sauce: Reduce the heat to low. Stir in honey and soy sauce, mixing well to combine with the garlic. Let the sauce simmer for a minute to meld the flavors.

5. Coat the Chicken: Return the cooked chicken tenders to the skillet, tossing them in the honey-garlic sauce to ensure they are well coated. Allow them to simmer in the sauce for an additional minute.

6. Serve: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately. These tenders pair well with steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 5 minutes

• Cook Time: 15 minutes

• Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for some heat.

• Citrus Twist: Incorporate a tablespoon of fresh lemon or lime juice into the sauce for a zesty flavor.

• Herbal Infusion: Sprinkle fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary during the final simmer for added aroma.

• Gluten-Free Option: Use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative to accommodate dietary restrictions.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Warm the chicken tenders in a skillet over low heat until heated through. Add a splash of water or chicken broth if needed to prevent the sauce from thickening too much.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenderloins?

Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts by slicing them into thin strips to ensure even cooking.

Is there a way to make this dish dairy-free?

Absolutely! Replace the butter with additional olive oil or a dairy-free margarine.

What type of honey works best for this recipe?

Any mild-flavored honey will work well. Avoid using strongly flavored varieties, as they may overpower the dish.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Certainly! Bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli can be sautéed along with the garlic for a more substantial meal.

How can I prevent the garlic from burning?

Ensure the heat is reduced to low when adding garlic, and stir continuously for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

What can I serve with honey garlic chicken tenders?

They pair well with steamed rice, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, place cooled chicken tenders in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

How do I thicken the sauce if it's too runny?

Let the sauce simmer a bit longer to reduce and thicken. If needed, mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with water and add to the sauce, stirring until it thickens.

Is it okay to marinate the chicken in the sauce before cooking?

Marinating isn't necessary for this recipe, but if desired, you can marinate the chicken in a portion of the sauce for up to 30 minutes for enhanced flavor.

Can I cook this dish in the oven?

While stovetop preparation is quicker, you can bake the seasoned chicken tenders at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, then toss them in the prepared sauce before serving.

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Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders

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• Author: Ava
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 4 Servings
• Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

These Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders are a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, coated in a rich honey-garlic glaze. Ready in just 20 minutes, this quick and easy one-pan recipe is ideal for busy weeknights and loved by kids and adults alike. Serve them with rice, veggies, or a fresh salad for a complete meal!

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Ingredients

• 1 lb (450g) chicken tenderloins
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp butter, divided
• 2 tsp paprika
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• ¼ cup honey
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

1️⃣ Prepare the Chicken – Pat the chicken tenderloins dry with paper towels. Season with paprika, salt, and black pepper.
2️⃣ Sear the Chicken – Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 3 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3️⃣ Sauté the Garlic – In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4️⃣ Make the Sauce – Reduce heat to low. Stir in honey and soy sauce, allowing the sauce to simmer for a minute.
5️⃣ Coat the Chicken – Return the chicken to the skillet, tossing it in the honey-garlic sauce. Let it simmer for another minute.
6️⃣ Serve – Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately with rice, vegetables, or a salad.

Notes

• Spicy Kick – Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for heat.
• Citrus Twist – Stir in a tablespoon of fresh lemon or lime juice for a zesty flavor.
• Gluten-Free Option – Use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative.
• Dairy-Free – Swap butter for extra olive oil or dairy-free margarine.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Asian