Crispy Chicken Tenders

Crispy Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders are the ultimate crowd-pleaser, combining the irresistible crunch of perfectly fried chicken with the sweet and savory flavors of honey and garlic. These tenders are not just a meal; they are an experience that brings joy to family dinners, potlucks, and casual gatherings alike. The appeal of this dish lies not only in its delightful taste but also in its versatility; they can be served as an appetizer, main dish, or even a fun finger food at parties.

Get ready to impress your family and friends with Crispy Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders! This delicious recipe features perfectly fried chicken coated in a sweet and savory honey garlic sauce that’s sure to be a hit at any gathering. With a crispy exterior and tender inside, these versatile tenders can be enjoyed as an appetizer, main dish, or fun finger food. Discover the secrets to making this flavorful dish, and elevate your cooking game with a recipe everyone will love!

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Ingredients

1 lb (450 g) chicken tenderloins

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 tsp paprika

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp onion powder

1/2 tsp salt

1/2 tsp black pepper

2 large eggs

1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crispiness)

1/3 cup honey

3 tbsp soy sauce

1 tbsp Dijon mustard

1 clove garlic, minced

1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Vegetable oil, for frying

Instructions

Prepare Chicken: If the chicken tenderloins are thick, you can lightly pound them to an even thickness for uniform cooking. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.

Set Up Breading Stations: In a shallow bowl, combine flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. In a second bowl, beat the two eggs. In a third bowl, place the breadcrumbs.

Coat Chicken: Dredge each chicken tender first in the flour mixture, shaking off excess, then dip into the beaten eggs, and finally coat thoroughly in the breadcrumbs. Place the coated tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Make the Honey Garlic Sauce: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine honey, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Bring to a simmer and cook for about 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened. Remove from heat and set aside.

Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or frying pan, pour enough vegetable oil to cover the bottom by 1/4 inch. Heat over medium-high heat until hot (around 350°F or 175°C).

Fry the Tenders: Carefully add chicken tenders to the hot oil in batches, being cautious not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 5-7 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C).

Drain and Serve: Once cooked, transfer tenders to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Drizzle warm honey garlic sauce over the chicken tenders or serve it on the side for dipping.

Enjoy: Serve immediately with your favorite sides like coleslaw, fries, or a fresh salad.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4