Crispy Honey Lemon Chicken Tenders
🍗 Crispy Honey Lemon Chicken Tenders
Golden, crunchy chicken tenders tossed in a zesty honey lemon glaze. Perfect for family dinners, snacks, or party platters!
⏱️ Quick Info:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 4
📝 Ingredients
For the Chicken Tenders
- 1 lb chicken tenders (about 8–10 pieces)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor)
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Honey Lemon Sauce
- ¼ cup honey
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tbsp lemon zest
- 1 tbsp soy sauce (optional, for umami)
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional, for a tangy kick)
- 1 tbsp butter
👨🍳 Instructions
✅ 1. Prep & Coat the Chicken
- Dry chicken tenders with paper towels.
- In dish #1: Mix flour + garlic powder + onion powder + paprika + salt + pepper.
- In dish #2: Beat eggs.
- In dish #3: Combine panko breadcrumbs + Parmesan.
Dredge:
- Flour → 2. Egg → 3. Breadcrumbs.
Press lightly so the coating sticks well.
- Heat ½ inch of oil in a large skillet to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry tenders in batches, 3–4 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through.
- Transfer to paper towels to drain.
✅ 3. Make the Honey Lemon Glaze
- In a small saucepan, combine:
- Honey + lemon juice + zest + soy sauce + Dijon
- Simmer 2–3 minutes over medium heat.
- Stir in butter until melted and smooth.
✅ 4. Glaze & Serve
- Toss or drizzle glaze over hot tenders.
- Garnish with lemon zest or parsley (optional).
🍽️ Serving Ideas
- Pair with white rice, crispy fries, or a green salad.
- Dipping sauces: garlic aioli, ranch, or sriracha mayo.
🔥 Pro Tips
- Crispier crust? Double-dip in egg and breadcrumbs.
- Lighter version? Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 mins on a wire rack.
- Spicy glaze? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne.