Looking for a quick and tasty dinner idea? Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders are your answer! This recipe combines juicy chicken, rich honey, and savory garlic for a winning dish. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a meal that delights your taste buds. Follow my easy step-by-step instructions, and you’ll have a crowd-pleaser on the table in no time! Let’s dive into this delicious, simple recipe!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Deliciously Sweet and Savory: The combination of honey and soy sauce creates a perfect balance of sweetness and umami that makes these chicken tenders irresistible.
- Quick and Easy Preparation: With minimal prep time and straightforward steps, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights or unexpected guests.
- Crispy Texture: Coating the chicken with cornstarch before frying ensures a crispy outside while keeping the inside juicy and tender.
- Versatile Dish: These chicken tenders can be served as an appetizer, main course, or even as a topping for salads, making them a versatile addition to any meal.
Ingredients
Main ingredients for Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders
– 1 lb chicken tenderloins
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup low sodium soy sauce
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
Additional ingredients
– 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Coating and frying ingredients
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil for frying
– Sesame seeds and green onions for garnish
To make Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders, gather your ingredients first. You need chicken tenderloins, honey, and soy sauce. Fresh garlic adds a lovely punch. Grated ginger gives depth to the dish. Apple cider vinegar adds a slight tang. Sesame oil brings a nice nutty flavor.
For frying, cornstarch is key. It helps the chicken become crispy. Vegetable oil is perfect for frying. Finally, garnish with sesame seeds and green onions for a pop of color.
These ingredients work together to create a sweet and savory glaze that clings to the chicken. Each bite will burst with flavor. It’s a simple yet delicious dish that will impress your family and friends.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the marinade
First, grab a medium bowl. Add 1/2 cup honey and 1/4 cup low sodium soy sauce. Next, add 3 cloves of minced garlic and 1 tablespoon of grated ginger. Then, pour in 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar and 1 teaspoon of sesame oil. Whisk all these together until they blend well. This marinade will give your chicken a sweet and savory flavor.
Marinating the chicken
Now, take your 1 lb of chicken tenderloins. Place them in the marinade and make sure they are fully coated. Cover the bowl and put it in the fridge. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes. For the best taste, an hour is even better. The longer it sits, the more flavor it will soak up.
Cooking process
Once your chicken has marinated, remove it from the fridge. Sprinkle 1/4 cup of cornstarch over the chicken. Toss it gently to coat each piece evenly. This will help make your chicken crispy.
Next, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, carefully add the chicken in a single layer. Cook for about 4 to 5 minutes on each side. Look for a golden brown color and make sure the chicken is fully cooked. You might need to cook it in batches to avoid overcrowding.
Once all the chicken is cooked, lower the heat. Pour the remaining marinade into the skillet. Let it cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes. This will allow the sauce to thicken and coat the chicken nicely.
After that, taste your chicken. You can add salt and pepper if needed. Now, your Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders are ready to serve!
Pro Tips
- Marinate Longer for Flavor: The longer you marinate the chicken, the deeper the flavors will penetrate. For optimal taste, aim for 1-2 hours of marinating time.
- Use a Thermometer: To ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
- Adjust Sauce Consistency: If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer it longer after adding to the skillet, or mix a little cornstarch with water and add to the sauce to thicken it.
- Garnish Creatively: In addition to sesame seeds and green onions, consider adding finely chopped cilantro or chili flakes for extra flavor and presentation.
Tips & Tricks
Achieving perfect crispy chicken
To get that perfect crunch, cornstarch is key. It creates a crispy outer layer. Make sure to coat the chicken well. Sprinkle the cornstarch evenly and toss. This step is crucial for texture.
When frying, use medium-high heat. Heat the oil until it shimmers. This will ensure a nice golden color. Avoid overcrowding the pan. Fry in batches if needed. This keeps the oil hot and the chicken crispy.
Enhancing flavor and texture
Marinade time is important. Aim for at least 30 minutes, but 1 hour is best. This helps the flavors soak in. The honey, garlic, and ginger mix will make your chicken taste amazing.
After cooking, taste your chicken. You might want to adjust the salt and pepper. Small changes can make a big difference. Feel free to add more honey for sweetness.
Presentation tips
Serving is just as fun as cooking. Place the chicken on a nice platter. Drizzle some extra sauce on top for flair. Add sesame seeds and chopped green onions for color.
Pair your tenders with steamed broccoli or fluffy rice. These sides not only look good but also add balance to the meal. Enjoy the beautiful presentation!
Variations
Ingredient swaps
You can easily swap ingredients to fit your taste. Instead of chicken, you can use tofu or shrimp. Both options work well with the honey garlic sauce. Tofu becomes nice and crispy, while shrimp cooks quickly and soaks up the flavor.
If you want a different sweet flavor, try using maple syrup instead of honey. It adds a nice, rich taste. You can also use agave nectar for a lighter option. These swaps keep your dish fresh and exciting.
Cooking methods
You don’t have to fry the chicken if you prefer a healthier option. You can bake the chicken tenders in the oven. Preheat your oven to 400°F. Place the coated chicken on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes. This method gives you crispy chicken without the extra oil.
Grilling is another great option for cooking. Marinate your chicken as usual, then grill on medium heat. Cook for about 6-7 minutes per side. This method adds a smoky flavor. You’ll love the charred bits on the outside!
Flavor variations
To change the flavor profile, add spices to the marinade. A teaspoon of chili flakes can add some heat. If you like black pepper, feel free to sprinkle it in for a kick. These spices can take your dish to the next level.
You can also add fruits for sweetness. Pineapple chunks work great in this recipe. Just toss them in with the chicken when you cook. They add a juicy burst of flavor that pairs well with the garlic and honey. Experimenting with these variations keeps your honey garlic chicken tenders exciting and delicious!
Storage Info
Storing leftover chicken tenders
To keep your honey garlic chicken tenders fresh, use airtight containers. Glass or plastic containers work great. Store them in the fridge right away. Make sure they cool down first. They can last for up to three days in the fridge.
Reheating instructions
When you want to enjoy your leftovers, use the oven or stovetop. These methods keep the chicken tender and tasty. If using the oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes. For the stovetop, add a bit of oil to a pan. Heat the chicken on medium until warm. Avoid using the microwave. It can make the chicken tough.
Freezing tips
You can freeze the chicken before or after cooking. If freezing raw, marinate the chicken first. Store it in a freezer bag. When ready, thaw it in the fridge overnight before cooking. If you freeze cooked tenders, let them cool before bagging. For best texture, eat them within three months. To thaw, place in the fridge overnight. This keeps them juicy and flavorful.
FAQs
How long can I marinate chicken for Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders?
You can marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes. For the best flavor, aim for 1 hour. This time allows the chicken to soak up all the tasty honey and garlic flavors. If you want to plan ahead, you can marinate it overnight in the fridge. This longer time enhances the taste and makes the chicken tender.
Can I bake Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders instead of frying?
Yes, you can bake the chicken tenders! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the marinated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Baking gives you a healthier option while keeping the chicken juicy.
What are the best side dishes to serve with Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders?
Great sides to pair with these tenders include:
– Steamed broccoli
– Fluffy white or brown rice
– Crispy fried rice
– Mixed green salad
– Garlic bread
These sides complement the sweet and savory flavors of the chicken. Plus, they help create a well-rounded meal. Enjoy your cooking!
In this post, I shared how to make Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders using simple ingredients. The mix of honey, soy sauce, and garlic makes great flavor. You learned the steps for marinating and cooking the chicken. I also gave tips on achieving crispy tenders and different cooking methods. For storage, knowing how to keep leftovers fresh matters. Try these ideas, and enjoy a tasty meal. With just a few tweaks, you can customize this dish to your taste! Happy cooking!
