Sweet and Savory Sticky Chicken Tenders Recipe
Are you ready to elevate your weeknight dinners with a finger-licking treat? This Sticky Chicken Tenders Recipe is exactly what you need! These tenders are coated in a sweet and savory glaze that will have everyone asking for seconds. It’s a simple recipe that packs a punch of flavor, making it perfect for family meals or casual gatherings.
Picture this: crispy chicken tenders drizzled with a sticky sauce that’s both sweet and tangy. This Sticky Chicken Tenders Recipe makes cooking fun and enjoyable, with the added bonus of being super easy to whip up. You can customize the spice level to your liking, ensuring that it suits your family’s taste buds perfectly.
With just a handful of ingredients, this recipe transforms ordinary chicken tenders into an extraordinary dish. Whether served with a side of rice, salad, or even in a wrap, these succulent tenders will surely be a hit.
Irresistible Sticky Chicken Tenders
Imagine biting into a tender, juicy piece of chicken enveloped in a glossy, sticky glaze. The Sticky Chicken Tenders Recipe transforms simple chicken into a mouthwatering delight that everyone will enjoy.
These chicken tenders are not just delicious; they offer a perfect balance of flavors, combining sweetness with a touch of spice. The outer layer is crispy, while the inside remains moist and tender, making each bite a true pleasure.
Preparing the Perfect Chicken Tenders
To achieve that perfect crunch, the chicken must be coated in a well-seasoned flour mixture. This step ensures a delightful texture once cooked. The combination of garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika contributes to a flavor profile that enhances the overall dish.
Once coated, the chicken tenders are pan-fried until golden brown. This method seals in the juices, preventing dryness and allowing the tenders to remain succulent throughout the cooking process.
Crafting the Sticky Sauce
The star of this dish is undoubtedly the sticky glaze. Made from honey, soy sauce, and apple cider vinegar, it strikes a wonderful balance between sweet and tangy. As the mixture simmers, it thickens, creating a perfect coating for the chicken.
Pour the sauce over the cooked tenders in the skillet, tossing them gently to ensure each piece is completely coated. A few extra minutes on the heat allows the glaze to adhere beautifully, resulting in that desirable caramelized finish.
Garnishing for Visual Appeal
Presentation plays a significant role in the enjoyment of any dish. Once the chicken tenders are coated in the sticky sauce, sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped green onions on top. This not only adds a pop of color but also a delightful crunch that complements the dish.
Serve the tenders alongside a bowl of dipping sauce, which can add an extra layer of flavor for those who love a bit of variety. The rustic wooden table background further enhances the appetizing appearance, making the whole plate look even more inviting.
Irresistible Sticky Chicken Tenders
These chicken tenders are juicy and tender on the inside, while the sticky glaze creates a delightful caramelized finish. The balance of sweetness and a hint of spice makes them truly irresistible.
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken tenders
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: In a bowl, mix flour, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and paprika. Dredge each chicken tender in the flour mixture until fully coated.
- Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken tenders and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- Make the Sticky Sauce: In a small saucepan, combine honey, soy sauce, and apple cider vinegar. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring frequently until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Coat the Chicken: Return the cooked chicken tenders to the skillet and pour the sticky sauce over them. Toss to coat evenly and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the sauce to stick.
- Serve: Transfer the sticky chicken tenders to a serving platter, garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions, and enjoy hot!
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Fat: 7g
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
Perfect Pairings
These sticky chicken tenders are incredibly versatile when it comes to side dishes. They can be enjoyed with steamed rice, fresh salads, or even tucked into wraps. The combination of flavors makes them a fantastic option for casual gatherings or family dinners.
Whether you decide to keep it simple or get creative with sides, these tenders are sure to impress and become a family favorite on your dinner table.
Quick Overview of the Sticky Chicken Tenders Recipe
This Sticky Chicken Tenders Recipe is not only easy to follow but also quick to prepare, requiring only about 25 minutes from start to finish. With just a handful of ingredients, it’s a fantastic way to make weeknight dinners exciting and delicious.
Each serving offers a satisfying 300 calories, with 20 grams of protein to keep you full. This dish truly embodies the ideal combination of taste and nutrition, making it a wonderful choice for any meal.
