Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs chicken tenders (or boneless pork loin, if preferred)
- 2 eggs
- 4 tablespoons water
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Vegetable oil for frying
Glaze:
- 1 1/2 cups honey
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ginger
- Dash of cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon chopped garlic
- 2 tablespoons butter
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a shallow dish, whisk together the eggs and water.
- In another shallow dish, combine the flour, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
- Dip each chicken tender into the flour mixture, then into the egg mixture, and back into the flour mixture for an extra crispy coating. Make sure to coat each tender evenly.
- In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the coated chicken tenders. Cook for about 6 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through. Avoid turning them more than twice to prevent the breading from coming off.
- Remove the cooked chicken tenders from the skillet and place them in a 9″x13″ baking dish.
- In the same skillet, sauté the chopped garlic in butter until fragrant.
- Add honey, brown sugar, ginger, cayenne pepper, and soy sauce to the skillet. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 5 minutes. Keep a close eye on it to prevent boiling over.
- Pour half of the honey garlic glaze over the cooked chicken tenders in the baking dish. Flip them over and pour the remaining glaze over the other side.
- Place the baking dish, uncovered, in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. This will set the glaze and ensure the chicken tenders are cooked through.
- Once done, remove from the oven, and serve the Crunchy Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders with your favorite side dishes. Enjoy the sweet, savory, and crispy goodness!
Here are some tips to enhance the flavor and texture of your Crunchy Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders:
- Marination: For added flavor, marinate the chicken tenders in a mixture of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger for at least 30 minutes before coating them. This will infuse the chicken with additional savory notes.
- Buttermilk Soak: Soak the chicken tenders in buttermilk for a few hours before breading. This will tenderize the meat and add a subtle tangy flavor.
- Double Coating: For an extra crispy coating, double coat the chicken tenders. After the first round of coating with flour, dip them back into the egg mixture and then into the flour again before frying.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper in the glaze according to your spice preference. If you like it spicier, add a bit more, or omit it for a milder version.
- Fresh Herbs: Garnish the finished dish with chopped fresh cilantro, parsley, or green onions to add a burst of freshness and color.
- Sesame Seeds: Toasted sesame seeds can be sprinkled over the glazed chicken tenders before serving. They not only add a nutty flavor but also provide a delightful crunch.
- Citrus Zest: Add a touch of citrus by incorporating some orange or lemon zest into the glaze. This will bring a bright and refreshing element to the dish.
- Baking Sheet Rack: If possible, place a wire rack on the baking sheet before arranging the coated chicken tenders. This allows air to circulate around them, keeping the underside crisp.
- Dipping Sauce: Prepare a simple dipping sauce with a combination of soy sauce, honey, and a squeeze of lime or lemon juice. This can be served alongside the chicken tenders for an extra layer of flavor.
- Serve with Vegetables: Accompany the chicken tenders with a side of stir-fried or roasted vegetables. The crunchy texture of the chicken will complement the tender-crisp veggies.
- Reheat in Oven: If you have leftovers, reheat the chicken tenders in the oven rather than the microwave to help maintain their crispy texture.
Remember to tailor these tips to your personal preferences and enjoy your delightful Crunchy Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders!
Here are some popular questions and answers related to Crunchy Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders :
Q1: Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe? A1: While bone-in chicken can be used, boneless chicken tenders or boneless pork loin are recommended for quicker and more even cooking.
Q2: Can I substitute the honey with another sweetener? A2: Yes, you can experiment with maple syrup, agave nectar, or a combination of sweeteners, but it may alter the flavor profile.
Q3: Can I make these tenders ahead of time? A3: Yes, you can bread the chicken ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to fry. However, it’s best to apply the glaze and bake just before serving to maintain crispiness.
Q4: How do I prevent the breading from coming off during frying? A4: Make sure to thoroughly coat the chicken tenders in each step of the breading process, and avoid turning them too frequently during frying.
Q5: Can I use a different oil for frying? A5: Yes, you can use oils with high smoke points like vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil for frying.
Q6: Can I bake the chicken tenders instead of frying them? A6: While baking is an option, frying provides a crispier texture. If you choose to bake, preheat the oven to 400°F and bake for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Q7: How do I store leftovers? A7: Store leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Q8: What sides pair well with Crunchy Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders? A8: Serve with rice, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad. The sweet and savory flavors also complement coleslaw or mashed potatoes.
Q9: Can I freeze the chicken tenders? A9: It’s not recommended to freeze the fully assembled dish, as the breading may become soggy. However, you can freeze the breaded chicken before frying and glazing for future use.
Q10: Can I adjust the spiciness of the glaze? A10: Absolutely! Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper in the glaze to your preferred level of spiciness.
Feel free to ask if you have more questions or need additional information!