Crispy Honey Lemon Chicken Tenders Recipe
Introduction
Crispy Honey Lemon Chicken Tenders are a delightful combination of crunchy texture and sweet-tangy flavor. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for a quick dinner or a tasty snack that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken tenders
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) if baking, or heat oil in a frying pan for frying. Pat the chicken tenders dry.
- Step 2: Coat each chicken tender evenly with breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
- Step 3: Place the breaded chicken tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper if baking, or carefully place in the hot oil if frying.
- Step 4: Bake for 15-20 minutes or fry for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
- Step 5: In a small bowl, mix honey and lemon juice to create the glaze.
- Step 6: Remove cooked chicken tenders from heat and brush generously with the honey lemon glaze before serving.
Tips & Variations
- For extra crunch, use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs.
- Add a pinch of chili flakes to the glaze for a spicy kick.
- Serve with a side of fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
- To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Storage
Store leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) to maintain crispiness, or microwave briefly if in a hurry, though they may soften.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breast instead of tenders?
Yes, you can cut chicken breast into strips and use them just like tenders. Cooking time may be slightly longer to ensure they are cooked through.
Is it better to bake or fry the chicken tenders?
Baking is a healthier option and requires less oil, while frying results in a crispier exterior. Choose based on your preference and dietary needs.
PrintCrispy Honey Lemon Chicken Tenders Recipe
Crispy Honey Lemon Chicken Tenders are golden-baked or fried chicken strips coated with a crunchy breadcrumb crust and glazed with a sweet and tangy honey lemon sauce, perfect for a quick and flavorful meal or snack.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 pound chicken tenders
Breading
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
Glaze
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice, freshly squeezed
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken: Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels to ensure the breadcrumbs stick properly.
- Bread the chicken: Coat each chicken tender evenly with breadcrumbs, pressing gently so they adhere well.
- Cook the chicken: Choose your method:
– Baking: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place breaded tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 15-20 minutes until golden and cooked through.
– Frying: Heat about 1/2 inch of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Fry chicken tenders for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Drain excess oil on paper towels. - Make the glaze: While the chicken is cooking, in a small saucepan, gently warm the honey and lemon juice together, stirring to combine for about 2 minutes. Remove from heat.
- Glaze the chicken: Once cooked, brush the honey lemon glaze generously over each chicken tender, ensuring a glossy, flavorful coating.
- Serve: Serve the crispy glazed chicken tenders warm, optionally garnished with lemon zest or fresh herbs for added brightness.
Notes
- For extra crispiness when baking, lightly spray the breaded chicken with cooking spray before placing it in the oven.
- You can substitute panko breadcrumbs for a crunchier texture.
- Adjust honey and lemon juice quantity according to your preferred sweetness and tanginess balance.
- Ensure chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.
Keywords: crispy chicken tenders, honey lemon chicken, baked chicken tenders, chicken snack, sweet and tangy chicken
