Name: Honey Garlic Crunch Chicken Tenders Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 6 min
Total time: 26 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 chicken breasts; 2 cups flour; ½ cup panko bread crumbs; ½ tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; 1 tsp paprika; ½ tsp Seasoning salt; ½ tsp black pepper; 3 eggs; 3 tbsp water; 1½ tbsp oil; oil; Green Onions; For Sauce:; ½ cup honey; 4 tbsp soy sauce; 4 cloves large garlic; 1 tbsp ginger; ½ tsp chili flakes; ⅓ cup water

These honey garlic crunch chicken tenders are the perfect blend of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, they make an ideal meal or appetizer for any occasion.

Photos of Honey Garlic Crunch Chicken Tenders Recipe

If you don't already have panko bread crumbs or ginger at home, you might need to pick them up at the supermarket. Panko bread crumbs give the chicken an extra crispy texture, while fresh ginger adds a unique, aromatic flavor to the sauce.

Ingredients For Honey Garlic Crunch Chicken Tenders

Chicken breasts: The main protein, tender and juicy when cooked.

Flour: Used for coating the chicken to give it a crispy texture.

Panko bread crumbs: Provides an extra crunch to the chicken tenders.

Garlic powder: Adds a savory, garlicky flavor.

Onion powder: Enhances the overall flavor with a mild onion taste.

Paprika: Adds a touch of smokiness and color.

Seasoning salt: Adds a balanced flavor to the chicken.

Black pepper: Adds a bit of heat and enhances the other spices.

Eggs: Helps the flour and panko mixture adhere to the chicken.

Water: Thins the egg mixture slightly for better coating.

Oil: Used in the egg mixture for better coating and for frying the chicken.

Green onions: Used as a garnish for a fresh, mild onion flavor.

Honey: The base of the sauce, adding a sweet flavor.

Soy sauce: Adds a salty, umami taste to the sauce.

Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a strong, aromatic flavor to the sauce.

Ginger: Adds a warm, spicy flavor to the sauce.

Chili flakes: Provide a hint of heat to balance the sweetness.

Water: Used in the sauce to achieve the right consistency.

One reader, Kristel Aldridge says:

These honey garlic crunch chicken tenders are amazing! The double coating makes them super crispy, and the sauce is the perfect blend of sweet and savory. My family couldn't get enough. Will definitely make again!

Kristel Aldridge

Techniques Required for Making Honey Garlic Crunch Chicken Tenders

How to preheat oil: Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 375 degrees F using a thermometer to ensure accuracy. How to combine sauce ingredients: Mix honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger, chili flakes, and water in a small pan. How to bring to a boil and simmer: Heat the sauce mixture until it starts to boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes. How to whisk together eggs, water, and oil: In a bowl, beat the eggs with water and oil until well combined. How to double coat chicken: Dip each piece of chicken in the egg mixture, then the flour mixture, and repeat the process to ensure a thick coating. How to fry chicken: Cook the coated chicken in preheated oil in small batches until crispy and cooked through, about 5 to 6 minutes. How to drain on paper towels: Place fried chicken on paper towels to absorb excess oil. How to toss chicken in sauce: Place cooked chicken in a large bowl, pour warm sauce over it, and toss well to coat. How to garnish with green onions: Chop green onions and sprinkle them over the coated chicken before serving.

How To Make Honey Garlic Crunch Chicken Tenders

Fried to a satisfying crunch, this chicken tenders recipe is a cut above the rest through the contrasting flavors of paprika, honey, ginger, and garlic.

Preparation: 20 minutes

Cooking: 6 minutes

Total: 26 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

3chicken breasts,5 to 6 slices each
2cupsflour
½cuppanko bread crumbs
½tspgarlic powder
1tsponion powder
1tsppaprika
½tspSeasoning salt
½tspblack pepper
3eggs
3tbspwater
1½tbspoil
oil,for frying
green onions

For Sauce:

½cuphoney
4tbspsoy sauce
4cloveslarge garlic,crushed
1tbspginger,finely diced
½tspchili flakes
⅓cupwater

Instructions

Preheat oil to 375 degrees F.

For Sauce:

Combine sauce ingredients in a small pan. Bring to a boil, reduce heat and simmer about 15 minutes

Chicken:

In a bowl combine flour, Panko bread crumbs, and seasonings. Set aside. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, water, and oil.
Working with half of the flour mixture at a time, dip each piece of chicken in the egg mixture and then the flour.
Dip it into the egg a second time and then the flour again to double coat it. Gently press the flour into the chicken.
Shake off any excess. Place on a wire rack and continue until all chicken is coated.
Fry chicken in small batches until crispy and cooked through, about 5 to 6 minutes. Drain on paper towels.
Place cooked chicken in a large bowl, pour warm sauce over and toss well to coat.
Top with green onions if desired and serve immediately.

Nutrition

Calories: 508.74kcal
Fat: 17.36g
Saturated Fat: 3.56g
Trans Fat: 0.13g
Monounsaturated Fat: 8.31g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 4.20g
Carbohydrates: 61.41g
Fiber: 1.80g
Sugar: 23.72g
Protein: 26.97g
Cholesterol: 135.66mg
Sodium: 682.67mg
Calcium: 53.15mg
Potassium: 363.79mg
Iron: 2.03mg
Vitamin A: 64.87µg
Vitamin C: 1.41mg

Crucial Technique Tip for Perfecting Honey Garlic Crunch Chicken Tenders

To achieve an extra crispy texture on your chicken tenders, make sure to double coat them by dipping each piece in the egg mixture and flour mixture twice. This creates a thicker, crunchier crust that holds up well when fried. Additionally, let the coated chicken rest on a wire rack for a few minutes before frying; this helps the coating adhere better and prevents it from falling off during cooking.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Honey Garlic Crunch Chicken Tenders

Prepare the sauce ahead: Make the honey garlic sauce a day before and store it in the fridge. This saves time on cooking day.

Use pre-cut chicken: Buy pre-cut chicken tenders to skip the step of slicing chicken breasts.

Organize your workspace: Set up a breading station with all ingredients ready to streamline the coating process.

Double batch: Make extra chicken tenders and freeze them. Reheat for a quick meal later.

Use a thermometer: Ensure oil is at the right temperature with a kitchen thermometer to avoid guesswork.

Substitute Ingredients For Honey Garlic Crunch Chicken Tenders Recipe

chicken breasts - Substitute with turkey breasts: Turkey breasts have a similar texture and can be used in place of chicken for a slightly different flavor profile.
flour - Substitute with gluten-free flour blend: A gluten-free flour blend can be used to accommodate those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
panko bread crumbs - Substitute with crushed cornflakes: Crushed cornflakes provide a similar crunch and can be a gluten-free alternative.
garlic powder - Substitute with onion powder: Onion powder can provide a similar depth of flavor if garlic powder is not available.
onion powder - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used as an alternative to onion powder for a different but complementary flavor.
paprika - Substitute with chili powder: Chili powder can add a similar color and a bit more heat to the dish.
seasoning salt - Substitute with regular salt: Regular salt can be used, though you may want to add a bit of extra seasoning like herbs or spices to make up for the flavor.
black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper can provide a similar heat without the black specks, which can be useful for aesthetic reasons.
eggs - Substitute with buttermilk: Buttermilk can help the coating adhere to the chicken and provide a tangy flavor.
water - Substitute with chicken broth: Chicken broth can add more flavor to the dish compared to plain water.
oil - Substitute with butter: Butter can provide a richer flavor, though it has a lower smoke point than oil.
green onions - Substitute with chives: Chives can provide a similar mild onion flavor and a pop of green color.
honey - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup can provide a similar sweetness with a slightly different flavor profile.
soy sauce - Substitute with tamari: Tamari is a gluten-free alternative to soy sauce with a similar taste.
garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots can provide a milder, sweeter flavor compared to garlic.
ginger - Substitute with ground ginger: Ground ginger can be used in place of fresh ginger, though it is more concentrated, so use less.
chili flakes - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper can provide a similar heat level, though it is more potent, so use sparingly.
water - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth can add more depth of flavor compared to plain water.

Presenting Honey Garlic Crunch Chicken Tenders

Serve smaller portion sizes: Present the chicken tenders in smaller, bite-sized pieces to create an elegant and refined look. This allows for a more sophisticated presentation and ensures that each piece is perfectly coated with the honey garlic sauce.
Use decoration: Garnish the plate with finely chopped green onions and a sprinkle of chili flakes to add a pop of color and a hint of spice. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also complements the flavors of the dish.
Create height: Stack the chicken tenders in a pyramid shape to add height and dimension to the plate. This technique creates a more dynamic and visually interesting presentation.
Sauce presentation: Drizzle the honey garlic sauce artistically around the plate rather than pouring it directly over the chicken tenders. This allows the diners to appreciate the crispy texture of the chicken while still enjoying the flavor of the sauce.
Use a clean, white plate: A pristine white plate provides a blank canvas that makes the colors and textures of the chicken tenders and garnishes stand out. It also conveys a sense of elegance and sophistication.
Add a side element: Include a small side of pickled vegetables or a fresh salad to balance the richness of the honey garlic chicken tenders. This adds variety to the plate and enhances the overall dining experience.
Final touch: Finish with a light dusting of sesame seeds over the chicken tenders for added texture and a subtle nutty flavor. This final touch adds an extra layer of sophistication to the dish.

Essential Tools for Making Honey Garlic Crunch Chicken Tenders

Pan: Use this to combine and simmer the sauce ingredients until they thicken and meld together.
Wire rack: Essential for placing the coated chicken pieces to allow excess coating to fall off and to keep them from getting soggy.
Mixing bowl: You'll need a couple of these to mix the flour and seasoning mixture, and to whisk together the eggs, water, and oil.
Whisk: Perfect for combining the eggs, water, and oil into a smooth mixture for coating the chicken.
Tongs: Handy for dipping the chicken pieces into the egg mixture and flour mixture without getting your hands too messy.
Deep fryer: Ideal for frying the chicken tenders to a crispy golden brown. Alternatively, a deep pot with enough oil can be used.
Paper towels: Necessary for draining the fried chicken tenders to remove excess oil.
Large bowl: Use this to toss the cooked chicken tenders with the warm honey garlic sauce.
Knife: For cutting the chicken breasts into tender-sized pieces.
Cutting board: Provides a safe and clean surface for cutting the chicken.
Measuring cups: To accurately measure out the flour, panko bread crumbs, honey, and water.
Measuring spoons: For precise measurement of the seasonings, soy sauce, and chili flakes.
Garlic press: Useful for mincing the garlic cloves quickly and efficiently.
Grater: Ideal for grating the ginger finely for the sauce.
Thermometer: To ensure the oil reaches and maintains the correct frying temperature of 375 degrees F.

Storing and Freezing Honey Garlic Crunch Chicken Tenders

Allow the chicken tenders to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
To freeze the honey garlic crunch chicken tenders, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer the tenders to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Label the container with the date and contents.
Frozen chicken tenders can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When ready to enjoy, remove the desired number of tenders from the freezer and let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
To reheat the thawed chicken tenders, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the tenders on a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. Alternatively, you can reheat them in an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until crispy and heated through.
If you have leftover honey garlic sauce, store it separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. When reheating the tenders, you can brush the sauce over them before baking or air frying to refresh the flavor.

How To Reheat Leftover Honey Garlic Crunch Chicken Tenders

The best way to reheat leftover honey garlic crunch chicken tenders is in the oven. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.
Another option is to reheat the tenders in an air fryer. Set the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and place the tenders in the basket, making sure they are not overcrowded. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.
If you're short on time, you can also reheat the tenders in the microwave. Place them on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. However, keep in mind that the tenders may lose some of their crispiness in the microwave.
For a quick and easy lunch or dinner, slice the reheated honey garlic crunch chicken tenders and serve them over a bed of mixed greens with your favorite dressing.
To add some extra flavor and texture, try chopping up the reheated tenders and using them as a topping for a pizza or flatbread.
If you have any leftover honey garlic sauce, drizzle it over the reheated tenders for an extra burst of flavor.

Interesting Trivia About Honey Garlic Crunch Chicken Tenders

A random fact about this recipe is that the honey garlic sauce not only adds a sweet and savory flavor but also helps to keep the chicken tenders moist and juicy. The double coating of flour and panko bread crumbs creates an extra crispy texture, making each bite satisfyingly crunchy.

Is Making Honey Garlic Crunch Chicken Tenders at Home Cost-Effective?

This honey garlic crunch chicken tenders recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients like chicken breasts, flour, and panko bread crumbs are relatively affordable. The sauce components such as honey, soy sauce, and garlic are pantry staples. Overall, the approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $15-$20 USD. Considering the flavor and satisfaction, I would rate this recipe an 8 out of 10 for its cost-effectiveness and deliciousness.

Are Honey Garlic Crunch Chicken Tenders Healthy or Unhealthy?

This honey garlic crunch chicken tenders recipe, while undeniably delicious, leans more towards the unhealthy side due to several factors:

Deep frying: The chicken is deep-fried, which adds a significant amount of oil and calories to the dish.
Refined flour: The recipe uses all-purpose flour, which is a refined carbohydrate lacking in nutrients and fiber.
High sodium: Soy sauce and seasoning salt contribute to a high sodium content, which can be problematic for those with high blood pressure or heart conditions.
Added sugars: Honey, while a natural sweetener, still adds to the overall sugar content of the dish.

However, the recipe does include some positive elements, such as the use of lean chicken breast and the incorporation of garlic and ginger, which offer potential health benefits.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:

Bake the chicken tenders instead of deep-frying them. Coat them with a mixture of whole wheat flour, panko breadcrumbs, and seasonings, then bake on a wire rack to maintain crispiness.
Replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour to increase the fiber content and nutritional value.
Reduce the amount of honey in the sauce and replace some of the soy sauce with low-sodium alternatives like coconut aminos.
Incorporate more vegetables into the dish, such as serving the chicken tenders over a bed of stir-fried or roasted vegetables.
Use heart-healthy oils like olive oil or avocado oil for cooking instead of vegetable oil.

Editor's Opinion on This Delightful Recipe

This honey garlic crunch chicken tenders recipe is a delightful fusion of sweet and savory flavors with a satisfying crunch. The double coating of seasoned flour and panko ensures a crispy exterior, while the honey garlic sauce adds a rich, sticky glaze that complements the tender chicken perfectly. The addition of green onions provides a fresh, vibrant finish. Frying at 375 degrees ensures the chicken is cooked through while maintaining its juiciness. Overall, this recipe is well-balanced and sure to be a crowd-pleaser, perfect for both casual gatherings and more formal occasions.

Enhance Your Honey Garlic Crunch Chicken Tenders Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze: Imagine the delightful crunch of Brussels sprouts roasted to perfection, drizzled with a tangy balsamic glaze. The slight bitterness of the sprouts pairs beautifully with the sweet and savory notes of the honey garlic chicken tenders.

Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with the rich flavors of garlic and Parmesan cheese. This comforting side dish provides a velvety contrast to the crispy texture of the chicken tenders, making each bite a harmonious blend of textures and tastes.

Mango Avocado Salad: A refreshing salad featuring juicy mango chunks and creamy avocado, tossed with a zesty lime vinaigrette. The vibrant colors and tropical flavors offer a delightful counterpoint to the savory chicken tenders.

Sweet Potato Fries with Spicy Aioli: Crispy sweet potato fries served with a kick of spicy aioli. The natural sweetness of the fries complements the honey notes in the chicken tenders, while the aioli adds a touch of heat to keep things interesting.

Asian Cucumber Salad: Thinly sliced cucumbers marinated in a light soy sauce and rice vinegar dressing, sprinkled with sesame seeds. This refreshing and crunchy salad adds a cool, crisp element to your meal, balancing the rich flavors of the chicken tenders.

Delicious Alternatives to Honey Garlic Crunch Chicken Tenders

Crispy Parmesan Chicken Tenders: Imagine the crunch of panko bread crumbs mixed with the savory taste of Parmesan cheese. These tenders are perfect for dipping in a tangy marinara sauce or a creamy ranch dip.

Spicy Buffalo Chicken Tenders: Turn up the heat with these fiery tenders coated in a zesty buffalo sauce. Serve with a side of celery sticks and a cooling blue cheese dip for the ultimate game day snack.

Lemon Herb Chicken Tenders: Infuse your tenders with the fresh flavors of lemon zest and a blend of herbs. These light and zesty tenders pair beautifully with a side of garlic aioli or a simple green salad.

Coconut Crusted Chicken Tenders: Take a tropical twist with these tenders coated in sweet shredded coconut. Serve with a tangy pineapple salsa or a creamy coconut dipping sauce for a taste of the islands.

BBQ Glazed Chicken Tenders: Smother your tenders in a rich and smoky BBQ sauce. These are perfect for a summer cookout, especially when paired with corn on the cob and a refreshing coleslaw.

Appetizers and Desserts to Complement Honey Garlic Crunch Chicken Tenders

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Delight your guests with these Stuffed Mushrooms that are packed with flavor. Imagine a savory blend of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs filling each mushroom cap, then baked to perfection. The breadcrumbs on top add a delightful crunch, making each bite a textural delight. These little morsels are perfect for any gathering, offering a rich and creamy experience that pairs wonderfully with a glass of white wine.

Bruschetta: Transport your taste buds to Italy with this classic Bruschetta. Fresh tomatoes, basil, and garlic are combined with a drizzle of olive oil and a splash of balsamic vinegar. This mixture is then spooned onto toasted slices of baguette, creating a delightful contrast between the crunchy bread and the juicy topping. Perfect for a summer evening, this appetizer is both refreshing and satisfying, offering a burst of Mediterranean flavors in every bite.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Imagine a warm, molten chocolate center encased in a delicate, rich cake. This dessert is perfect for those who crave an indulgent treat. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an extra touch of elegance. The contrast between the warm, gooey chocolate and the cold, creamy ice cream creates a delightful experience for your taste buds. Garnish with a few fresh raspberries or a sprig of mint to add a pop of color and a hint of freshness.

Lemon Meringue Pie: This classic dessert features a tangy lemon filling topped with a fluffy meringue. The buttery crust provides a perfect base, balancing the tartness of the lemon with the sweetness of the meringue. Serve it chilled for a refreshing end to your meal. To elevate the presentation, use a kitchen torch to lightly brown the meringue, giving it a beautiful, golden finish. A few slices of candied lemon peel on top can add both visual appeal and a burst of citrus flavor.

Why trust this Honey Garlic Crunch Chicken Tenders Recipe:

This honey garlic crunch chicken tenders recipe is a must-try for anyone craving a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors. The panko bread crumbs ensure an extra crispy texture, while the honey garlic sauce adds a delightful glaze. With easy-to-follow steps and common ingredients like chicken breasts, soy sauce, and garlic, this recipe is both accessible and delicious. Trust in the balance of flavors and the tried-and-true method to deliver a dish that will impress your family and friends.

Want to share your experience making these delicious Honey Garlic Crunch Chicken Tenders or have any tips to enhance the recipe? Join the discussion in the Recipe Sharing forum!

FAQ:

How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

I usually check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. It should read 165 degrees F. If you don't have a thermometer, make sure the chicken is no longer pink in the center and the juices run clear.

Can I bake the chicken tenders instead of frying them?

Yes, you can bake them! Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F. Place the coated chicken tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they're crispy and cooked through.

What can I use as a substitute for panko bread crumbs?

If you don't have panko, you can use regular bread crumbs or crushed cornflakes. Both will give you a nice crunch, though panko tends to be a bit lighter and crispier.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can pop them in the oven at 350 degrees F for about 10-15 minutes to keep them crispy.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make the sauce a day or two in advance and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it gently on the stove before tossing it with the chicken.