These crispy honey lemon chicken tenders are a perfect combination of crispy, golden coating with a sweet and tangy honey lemon glaze. Ideal for a quick dinner or a flavorful appetizer, these tenders are sure to please everyone with their deliciously crispy exterior and juicy interior.

FULL RECIPE

Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken tenders
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)

Directions

1. In a shallow bowl, whisk together flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
2. In another bowl, beat the egg and mix with milk.
3. In a third bowl, place the panko breadcrumbs.
4. Dredge each chicken tender in the flour mixture, then dip it in the egg wash, and coat it with breadcrumbs.
5. Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
6. Fry the chicken tenders in batches for 4-5 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through.
7. While the chicken is frying, prepare the glaze by combining honey, lemon juice, and lemon zest in a small saucepan.
8. Heat the mixture over low heat, stirring occasionally until well combined and warmed.
9. Once the tenders are cooked, drizzle the honey lemon glaze over them or serve it on the side for dipping.
10. Serve the crispy honey lemon chicken tenders immediately.

Nutritional Information

• Calories: 320 per serving
• Protein: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fat: 12g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 16g

Choosing the Right Chicken for Your Tenders

When making crispy chicken tenders, the type of chicken you choose is crucial to the final texture and flavor of the dish. For the best results, chicken tenders or chicken breasts cut into strips are ideal. The meat should be tender, juicy, and lean. Opting for boneless, skinless cuts makes the preparation quicker and cleaner. Whether you use fresh or frozen chicken, ensure it’s properly thawed and patted dry before breading to avoid sogginess.

The Importance of the Breading Process

The breading is what gives chicken tenders their crispy and golden texture. A well-executed breading involves three layers: flour, egg wash, and breadcrumbs. Each layer plays a crucial role. The flour mixture provides a dry coating that helps the egg adhere to the chicken. The egg wash, in turn, ensures that the breadcrumbs stick to the chicken, which gives it that crispy exterior. For added crunch, opt for panko breadcrumbs, which are lighter and fluffier than regular breadcrumbs.

How to Make Your Chicken Tenders Extra Crispy

For extra-crispy chicken tenders, it’s important to focus on the temperature and method of frying. First, ensure the oil is preheated to the right temperature. If the oil is too cool, the chicken will absorb excess oil, becoming greasy instead of crispy. If the oil is too hot, the breading will burn before the chicken is fully cooked. The ideal frying temperature is around 350°F to 375°F (175°C to 190°C). Frying in small batches ensures the chicken cooks evenly and maintains its crispiness.

Choosing the Best Oil for Frying

The oil you use for frying chicken tenders can significantly affect the flavor and texture of the finished dish. Opt for oils with a high smoke point such as vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil. These oils are ideal because they can withstand high temperatures without burning, allowing the chicken to cook evenly and crisply. Avoid using olive oil or butter as these have lower smoke points and may burn during frying.

The Role of Honey in the Glaze

Honey is the star of the glaze in this recipe. Its natural sweetness pairs perfectly with the tanginess of the lemon, creating a balanced flavor profile. Honey also has a thick, viscous texture that clings to the chicken tenders, enhancing the overall eating experience. When preparing the honey lemon glaze, ensure you heat the mixture gently, as overheating can cause the honey to lose its smooth texture.

Adding Lemon for Zesty Flavor

Lemon is the key ingredient that adds brightness to this dish. The fresh lemon juice cuts through the sweetness of the honey, providing a zesty contrast. Lemon zest, which is the finely grated outer peel of the lemon, contains aromatic oils that intensify the lemon flavor. Combining both lemon juice and zest in the glaze enhances the depth of citrus flavor, giving the tenders a refreshing zing.

Perfectly Balanced Sweet and Tangy Flavor

The sweet and tangy combination of honey and lemon is what makes this recipe stand out. The honey provides a rich, caramel-like sweetness, while the lemon adds acidity and freshness. Together, these flavors complement the savory, crispy chicken tenders, creating a balanced dish that’s not overly sweet or sour. Adjust the honey and lemon quantities based on your taste preferences, as some people may prefer a sweeter glaze while others may enjoy a more tart version.

The Benefits of Using Panko Breadcrumbs

Panko breadcrumbs are an excellent choice for achieving a light, crispy texture in fried dishes. Unlike traditional breadcrumbs, panko is made from larger, airier flakes, which help create a crispier crust. This texture holds up better during frying, preventing the breading from becoming soggy. Panko breadcrumbs also absorb less oil, making the chicken tenders lighter and less greasy, which results in a more enjoyable crunch.

Why You Should Avoid Overcrowding the Pan

Overcrowding the pan while frying chicken tenders can lead to uneven cooking and a soggy exterior. When too many tenders are placed in the pan at once, the temperature of the oil drops, causing the chicken to absorb more oil instead of crisping up. To achieve the perfect crispy texture, fry the tenders in small batches, ensuring that each piece has enough space to cook evenly and develop a golden-brown crust.

Frying vs. Baking: Which is Better for Chicken Tenders?

While frying chicken tenders offers the most traditional and crispy result, baking can be a healthier alternative. Baked chicken tenders are typically lower in calories and fat, as they require less oil. To bake chicken tenders, simply coat them with a light layer of oil or cooking spray and bake them in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking. Although baking may not yield the same level of crispiness as frying, it still results in a flavorful and satisfying dish.

How to Make a Simple Dipping Sauce for Chicken Tenders

A great dipping sauce can elevate chicken tenders to a new level of deliciousness. For this recipe, a classic honey mustard or ranch dressing pairs wonderfully with the crispy tenders. To make a honey mustard dipping sauce, simply combine equal parts honey and mustard, adjusting the ratio based on your preferred level of sweetness or tang. For a creamier dip, mix ranch dressing with a bit of lemon juice to echo the lemony flavor of the tenders.

Enhancing the Dish with Fresh Herbs

For an added layer of flavor, consider garnishing the crispy honey lemon chicken tenders with fresh herbs. A sprinkle of finely chopped parsley or thyme can add a burst of color and freshness, complementing the sweet and tangy glaze. Fresh herbs also enhance the overall aroma of the dish, making it even more inviting.

Serving Suggestions for Chicken Tenders

Crispy honey lemon chicken tenders can be served in various ways to suit different occasions. For a casual meal, serve them with a side of fries, coleslaw, or a simple green salad. For a more elegant presentation, pair the tenders with roasted vegetables or a creamy mashed potato. These tenders also make a great appetizer at parties, served with a side of dipping sauces for guests to enjoy.

Making the Dish Kid-Friendly

One of the reasons this recipe is so appealing is that it’s perfect for kids. The crispy, sweet, and tangy flavors are mild enough to appeal to younger palates. If you’re serving these tenders to children, you can adjust the glaze to make it less tangy by using less lemon or honey. You could also serve the glaze on the side to give kids the option of how much sweetness or acidity they want.

How to Store Leftover Chicken Tenders

If you have leftover chicken tenders, store them properly to maintain their freshness. Place the tenders in an airtight container and refrigerate them for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, use the oven to restore their crispiness. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the tenders for 10-12 minutes until they’re heated through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving the chicken, as it can cause the breading to become soggy.

Freezing Chicken Tenders for Later

For longer-term storage, you can freeze the chicken tenders. After frying and cooling them, place the tenders on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze them for 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer the tenders to a freezer-safe bag or container. To reheat, bake the frozen tenders at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.

Pairing Drinks with Crispy Honey Lemon Chicken Tenders

To complement the flavor of the crispy honey lemon chicken tenders, consider pairing them with a refreshing drink. For a non-alcoholic option, serve the tenders with a cold glass of lemonade or iced tea. For an adult beverage, a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light beer such as pilsner pairs well with the sweetness and acidity of the dish.

Using Leftover Chicken Tenders in Other Dishes

If you have leftover chicken tenders, don’t let them go to waste. You can use them in various dishes like chicken sandwiches, wraps, or salads. Slice the tenders and add them to a fresh salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers for a quick and satisfying meal. You can also use the tenders as a topping for pizza, adding an extra layer of flavor to your homemade creation.

Crispy Honey Lemon Chicken Tenders as Party Food

These crispy honey lemon chicken tenders are ideal for serving at parties and gatherings. They are easy to make in large batches and are sure to impress your guests with their irresistible flavor. For an added touch, arrange the tenders on a platter with lemon wedges, fresh herbs, and dipping sauces. This visually appealing presentation will make them the star of the table.

Conclusion

Crispy honey lemon chicken tenders are a delightful and versatile dish that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. The perfect balance of crispy breading, tender chicken, and a sweet and tangy honey lemon glaze makes this recipe a favorite for both family dinners and entertaining. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, you can create a dish that’s not only delicious but also impressive. Whether you choose to fry or bake the tenders, this recipe guarantees a satisfying meal. With endless possibilities for customization and pairing, these chicken tenders will surely become a staple in your cooking repertoire.