Golden, sticky, and irresistibly flavorful, Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders are the ultimate comfort food with a gourmet twist. These tenders are coated in a luscious glaze that combines the sweetness of honey with the rich aroma of garlic and a touch of heat from crushed red pepper flakes. Each bite is a balance of crispy exterior and tender, juicy chicken inside—a total win for weeknight dinners or game day gatherings.

Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or prepping a crowd-pleaser for a casual get-together, these tenders are always a hit. The best part? They’re quick to whip up with simple pantry ingredients, and they taste like you’ve been simmering them for hours. From kids to adults, everyone loves the sticky-savory flavor that makes these tenders completely addictive.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To get your Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders just right, you’ll want to start with the right tools:

Mixing Bowls: For dredging the chicken and mixing the sauce.
Tongs: To handle and flip the tenders during frying or air frying without losing the coating.
Skillet or Air Fryer: A deep non-stick skillet is perfect for pan-frying. If you’re going the lighter route, an air fryer keeps things crispy with less oil.

Saucepan: For gently simmering the honey garlic glaze.
Whisk: To ensure the sauce is silky smooth and well-blended.

Each tool helps create that signature crispy-yet-glazed texture. Using a whisk for the glaze prevents clumping, and tongs make it easier to flip without breaking the crust. Keeping your prep organized with bowls also speeds up the process.

Ingredients for the Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders

Each ingredient in this recipe is chosen for flavor and texture, creating that perfect sticky-sweet crunch:

Chicken Tenders: The star of the show. They’re lean, cook quickly, and stay juicy.
All-Purpose Flour: Creates the base layer for a light, crisp coating.

Cornstarch: Adds extra crunch to the crust when fried or air fried.
Garlic Powder & Onion Powder: Bring deep flavor into the coating.
Eggs: Help the flour mixture stick to the chicken evenly.

Salt & Pepper: Enhances overall taste.
Oil (for frying): Use canola or vegetable oil for a golden crust if frying.
Honey: Provides the sweet backbone of the glaze.

Fresh Garlic (minced): Adds bold, aromatic depth to the sauce.
Soy Sauce: Offers a savory, umami-rich counterbalance to the honey.
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: Optional, but a small pinch adds a gentle heat that contrasts beautifully with the sweet.

How To Make the Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders

Step 1: Prep the Coating Station

Set up three bowls: one with whisked eggs, one with flour mixed with cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper, and one empty for holding coated tenders. This will help keep things moving smoothly.

Step 2: Coat the Chicken

Dip each chicken tender into the egg wash, then into the seasoned flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure it sticks well. Set each one aside on a wire rack to rest.

Step 3: Cook the Tenders

In a skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Once hot, fry the tenders until golden brown and fully cooked, about 3-4 minutes per side. For a healthier version, air fry at 400°F for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway.

Step 4: Make the Honey Garlic Sauce

In a small saucepan, combine honey, soy sauce, and minced garlic. Simmer over low heat for 3-5 minutes until slightly thickened. Add red pepper flakes if using.

Step 5: Toss and Serve

Once tenders are cooked, place them in a large bowl and drizzle the warm sauce over the top. Gently toss to coat each piece fully in that sticky, glossy glaze. Sprinkle with chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

How to Serve and Store These Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders

These chicken tenders are best served hot and fresh, right after tossing in the glaze. Pair them with steamed jasmine rice, garlic mashed potatoes, or even a crisp slaw for a balanced meal. They’re also fantastic as an appetizer or party platter with a dipping sauce on the side.

For storing leftovers, allow the tenders to cool completely, then place in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, avoid the microwave if possible—instead, use an oven or air fryer to bring back that crispy texture. Heat at 375°F for about 8-10 minutes.

Freezing? Yes! Freeze cooked tenders (before saucing) in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a zip-top bag for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen and then toss in fresh sauce when ready to serve.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?

Absolutely! Just slice the breasts into similar-sized strips so they cook evenly.

2. What can I use instead of soy sauce?

You can substitute coconut aminos or low-sodium tamari for a gluten-free option.

3. How do I prevent the coating from falling off?

Make sure to press the flour coating firmly onto the chicken and let it rest before frying. Also, don’t overcrowd the pan.

4. Is it possible to make this recipe in advance?

You can prep the tenders and sauce ahead separately. Store the cooked tenders without sauce and combine when reheating.

5. Can I double the sauce?

Definitely! If you love extra sauce for dipping or drizzling over rice, go ahead and double the honey garlic mixture.

6. What oil is best for frying?

Neutral oils with a high smoke point like canola, vegetable, or avocado oil work best.

Want More Chicken Recipe Ideas?

If these Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders made your dinner shine, you’ll want to check out these other flavorful favorites from Life With Olivia:

Longhorn Parmesan Chicken for a cheesy, savory twist on a steakhouse favorite.
Sweet Garlic Chicken in the Crockpot when you need something easy and comforting.
Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole for an all-in-one creamy, protein-packed bake.

Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet if you love buttery richness with bold flavor.
One Skillet Spicy Garlic Butter Parmesan Steak Pasta when you’re craving something heartier.

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you go with the air fryer or skillet? Add extra heat or keep it mellow?

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Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders

Author: Olivia McKenney
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Print Recipe

Description

These Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders are juicy, golden, and drenched in a sticky garlic-infused honey glaze. Perfect for weeknights or game days, they come together fast and taste like comfort food heaven.

Instructions

1. Set up three bowls: one with whisked eggs, one with the flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper, and one empty for holding coated tenders.

2. Dip each chicken tender into the egg, then dredge in the flour mixture. Press to adhere well and let them rest on a wire rack.

3. Heat oil in a skillet over medium. Cook tenders 3–4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Or air fry at 400°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway.

4. In a saucepan, combine honey, soy sauce, and minced garlic. Simmer for 3–5 minutes. Stir in red pepper flakes if using.

5. Toss cooked tenders in the glaze while warm. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.