How To Make Crispy Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders
There are few dishes that manage to hit all the flavor notes—sweet, savory, crispy, juicy—with the same satisfying punch as Crispy Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders. This recipe has gained cult status not only because it's ridiculously delicious but also because it's accessible, adaptable, and undeniably comforting. Whether you're preparing a fun weekend meal for the family, a game-day snack, or a quick dinner that feels indulgent without being overly complicated, this dish delivers on all fronts.
A Quick History and Why It Matters
While fried chicken has deep roots in Southern American cuisine, and Asian cuisines are no strangers to the magic of honey-garlic sauces, the fusion of the two—crispy fried chicken tenders drenched in sticky honey garlic glaze—is a more modern culinary evolution. This dish likely emerged from fast-casual and Asian-American kitchen experiments that brought together familiar comfort with bold flavors. In the age of social media food culture, where golden crispy textures and gooey glazes are practically their own genre, this dish has become a favorite.
Beyond taste, there's also something emotionally satisfying about dishes that combine texture and flavor so harmoniously. It’s indulgent, yes. But in moderation and with the right balance, it can also be part of a wholesome lifestyle—especially when made at home with control over the ingredients.
Ingredients: Everything You Need
Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of what you’ll need, measured precisely for consistent, repeatable success.
For the Chicken Tenders:
1 lb (450g) chicken tenders or chicken breasts cut into strips
½ cup (60g) all-purpose flour
2 large eggs
¾ cup (75g) panko breadcrumbs (for extra crunch)
½ cup (50g) cornstarch (for crispiness)
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp paprika
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp salt
Oil for frying (vegetable or canola recommended)
For the Honey Garlic Sauce:
⅓ cup (115g) honey
¼ cup (60ml) low-sodium soy sauce
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 tbsp rice vinegar or white vinegar
1 tbsp brown sugar
1 tsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp water (for slurry)
Step-by-Step Preparation Instructions
Let’s get into the full method, step by step. These instructions are designed for both beginners and seasoned home cooks who want to get that perfect crunch.
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
Slice the chicken: If you're using chicken breasts, slice them into even 1-inch thick strips. Consistent sizing helps even cooking.
Pat dry: Use paper towels to pat the chicken dry. This is essential for the breading to stick well.
Season: Lightly season the chicken with salt and pepper.
Tip: Don’t skip the drying step—moisture is the enemy of crispiness.
Step 2: Set Up Your Breading Station
Grab three shallow bowls or trays:
Bowl 1: Mix flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Bowl 2: Beat the eggs.
Bowl 3: Mix cornstarch and panko breadcrumbs.
Breading Process:
Dredge each chicken strip in the flour mixture.
Dip into the beaten eggs.
Coat in the breadcrumb-cornstarch mixture.
Place breaded strips on a plate and let them rest for 5–10 minutes.
Tip: Resting helps the breading adhere better during frying.
Step 3: Fry the Chicken
Heat about ½ inch of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
Test the oil: Drop a breadcrumb in. If it sizzles, it’s ready.
Fry chicken in batches, 3–4 minutes per side, until golden brown and internal temp reaches 165°F (74°C).
Remove and drain on paper towels or a wire rack.
Tip: Avoid overcrowding the pan—it drops the oil temperature and leads to soggy coating.
Step 4: Make the Honey Garlic Sauce
In a small saucepan over medium heat, add honey, soy sauce, garlic, vinegar, and brown sugar.
Stir until the sugar is dissolved and mixture begins to simmer.
Stir in cornstarch slurry (cornstarch + water) and cook 1–2 more minutes until thickened.
Tip: You can make the sauce ahead of time and reheat gently when ready to serve.
Step 5: Toss and Serve
In a large bowl, place cooked chicken tenders.
Pour the warm honey garlic sauce over the top.
Gently toss to coat, or serve the sauce on the side for dipping.
Serving Suggestions:
Over steamed jasmine rice
With stir-fried veggies
Inside lettuce wraps
As a sandwich or wrap filling
Nutritional Value and Health Benefits of Key Ingredients
Let’s break down the individual components and their nutritional or health-supportive roles:
Chicken Breast
High in protein: Supports muscle growth and tissue repair.
Low in fat: Ideal for lean meals.
Contains selenium: Supports immune and thyroid function.
Garlic
Natural antibiotic: Contains allicin, a compound with medicinal properties.
Anti-inflammatory: Supports heart health and digestion.
Honey
Natural sweetener: Offers antioxidants.
Energy source: Contains glucose and fructose for quick fuel.
Soy Sauce
Rich in umami: Adds flavor without extra fat.
Use in moderation: Opt for low-sodium versions to reduce salt intake.
Panko Breadcrumbs
Light and airy: Lower oil absorption than traditional breadcrumbs.
Texture booster: Helps achieve ultimate crispiness.
Cornstarch
Gluten-free: A good alternative for those avoiding wheat.
Helps with coating: Locks in moisture and creates a crispy crust.
Additional Tips and Variations
Flavor Variations
Spicy Kick: Add sriracha or chili flakes to the sauce.
Asian-Inspired: Add grated ginger and a splash of sesame oil.
Buffalo Style: Replace honey garlic sauce with buffalo hot sauce + melted butter.
Ingredient Substitutions
No eggs? Use buttermilk or Greek yogurt for dredging.
Gluten-Free? Use rice flour and gluten-free panko.
Vegetarian Version: Use cauliflower florets instead of chicken.
Presentation Ideas
Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped scallions.
Serve in a bento box style lunch with pickled veggies.
Plate on a wooden board with dipping sauces for parties.
Final Thoughts: Why You Need This Recipe in Your Life
This isn’t just another chicken tender recipe—it’s a game-changer. The combination of ultra-crispy coating and sticky-sweet garlic glaze hits the perfect balance of comfort and excitement. It's approachable yet impressive, simple enough for a beginner yet satisfying enough for seasoned cooks.
In a world where takeout and fast food often dominate the crispy chicken scene, making it at home is empowering. You get to choose the quality of your ingredients, control the sugar and salt, and customize the flavors to suit your taste.
So next time you’re in the mood for something special but easy, skip the restaurant lines. Make these Crispy Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders instead. Trust me—your taste buds (and your dinner guests) will thank you.