Introduction
Chicken tenders are a popular choice for both adults and children, offering a satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare. But when you pair the crispy, tender chicken with a sweet and savory glaze, the dish becomes something truly special. This Apple and Honey Glazed Chicken Tenders Recipe takes the classic chicken tender and elevates it with a delectable blend of apple, honey, and spices. Whether you’re serving it for a casual family dinner or as an elegant appetizer for a gathering, this recipe is sure to delight.
Not only is this dish delicious, but it’s also simple to prepare, making it a perfect option for busy weeknights or special occasions. The honey adds a rich sweetness, while the apples contribute a hint of tartness and freshness, creating a harmonious balance that complements the crispy chicken. Let’s dive into the details of what makes the Apple and Honey Glazed Chicken Tenders Recipe a must-try.
What is Apple and Honey Glazed Chicken Tenders Recipe?
The Apple and Honey Glazed Chicken Tenders Recipe is a creative twist on the classic fried chicken tenders. In this recipe, the chicken tenders are coated with a light, crispy breading, then drizzled with a mouthwatering glaze made from honey and apples. The glaze imparts a natural sweetness from the honey and a subtle tang from the apples, which perfectly contrasts with the savory flavor of the chicken. This combination of textures and flavors makes the dish incredibly satisfying.
If you’re looking for more delicious chicken recipes, you might also enjoy the Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken, which features a flavorful crispy crust.
The recipe is versatile, too. It can be served as a main course, an appetizer, or even a snack, making it a great choice for any occasion. What sets it apart from other chicken recipes is the use of fresh apples and the balance of sweet and savory flavors, which enhance the overall experience. If you’re looking for a recipe that’s easy, flavorful, and unique, the Apple and Honey Glazed Chicken Tenders Recipe is the perfect choice.
Essential Ingredients for Apple and Honey Glazed Chicken Tenders Recipe
To make this Apple and Honey Glazed Chicken Tenders Recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Chicken tenders: These are the star of the dish, providing a tender, juicy bite that pairs perfectly with the glaze.
- Flour: For the breading, flour helps create a light, crispy exterior on the chicken tenders.
- Cornstarch: Adding cornstarch to the breading mixture helps create an extra crispy texture.
- Egg: The egg acts as a binding agent for the flour and cornstarch, ensuring the breading sticks to the chicken.
- Apple: Choose a crisp, slightly tart apple, such as a Granny Smith, for a flavorful glaze. The apple adds freshness and acidity to balance the sweetness of the honey.
- Honey: The natural sweetness of honey is essential for the glaze, giving it a rich, smooth texture.
- Apple cider vinegar: This adds a touch of tanginess to the glaze, which enhances the apple and honey combination.
- Butter: A small amount of butter helps to smooth out the glaze and adds richness.
- Garlic powder: Adds a savory depth of flavor to the glaze.
- Salt and pepper: For seasoning the chicken tenders and the glaze.
- Olive oil: For frying the chicken tenders to golden perfection.
- Fresh herbs (optional): Fresh thyme or rosemary can be used for garnishing the dish, adding a bit of color and flavor.
If you’re in the mood for more savory chicken options, try the Braised Chicken in the Oven with Crispy Skin.
These simple, yet flavorful ingredients come together to create a dish that is both comforting and exciting. Let’s move on to the next section to learn how to make this delicious Apple and Honey Glazed Chicken Tenders Recipe.
How to Make Apple and Honey Glazed Chicken Tenders Recipe
Making the Apple and Honey Glazed Chicken Tenders Recipe is relatively easy, but the results are nothing short of amazing. Follow these step-by-step instructions for a perfectly cooked, flavorful dish.
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by prepping your chicken tenders. If they’re not already cut into tender strips, slice boneless, skinless chicken breasts into evenly sized pieces, about 1-inch thick. Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture, which will help the breading adhere better.
If you’re interested in other ways to prepare chicken, check out our Chicken Salad Chick Grape Salad Recipe for a lighter option.
Step 2: Make the Breading
In a shallow bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, salt, and pepper. This mixture will form the crispy breading for the chicken. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg until it’s well beaten.
Next, dip each chicken tender into the egg, coating it fully, and then dredge it in the flour-cornstarch mixture. Press gently to ensure the coating sticks well. Repeat the process for all the chicken tenders.
For other easy-to-make chicken dishes, consider trying out the Quick Healthy Blackened Tilapia Recipe, which features another quick, flavorful protein option.
Step 3: Fry the Chicken
In a large skillet or frying pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. You want enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan, but not deep-fry the chicken. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the breaded chicken tenders in the pan. Fry the chicken in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan.
Cook each tender for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F). Remove the chicken from the pan and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
Step 4: Prepare the Apple and Honey Glaze
While the chicken is frying, prepare the glaze. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced apple and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
Next, add the honey, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the pan. Stir the mixture until the honey is fully dissolved and the glaze has thickened slightly. Let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it reaches a syrupy consistency.
For another variation, consider making a Chocolate Chip Pancakes Recipe, which is perfect if you want to combine sweetness with your meal.
Step 5: Glaze the Chicken
Once the chicken tenders are cooked, drizzle the apple and honey glaze generously over the tenders. If you like, you can also toss the chicken tenders in the glaze for a more even coating.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
For an added touch of freshness, garnish your chicken tenders with freshly chopped herbs like thyme or rosemary. Serve the Apple and Honey Glazed Chicken Tenders with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple salad.
Serving and Enjoying Apple and Honey Glazed Chicken Tenders Recipe
The Apple and Honey Glazed Chicken Tenders Recipe is versatile and can be enjoyed in several different ways. Here are a few suggestions for serving and enjoying your dish:
- As a main course: Serve the glazed chicken tenders with a side of roasted vegetables or a light salad. The sweetness of the glaze pairs wonderfully with earthy vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes. If you’re looking for more side ideas, consider serving with a comforting Brioche French Toast Casserole.
- As an appetizer: Serve the chicken tenders with a side of dipping sauce, such as a tangy mustard or ranch dressing, for a fun and flavorful starter.
- In a sandwich or wrap: Slice the glazed chicken tenders and add them to a bun or tortilla with some fresh greens, cheese, and a drizzle of the apple glaze for a delicious sandwich or wrap.
- With rice or quinoa: For a heartier meal, serve the chicken tenders on a bed of rice or quinoa. The glaze will soak into the grains, creating a flavorful combination.
For more easy-to-make meals, you might like the Easy Taco Soup Recipe, which pairs well with the sweetness of the chicken.
Tips and Advice
- Make the glaze ahead of time: You can prepare the apple and honey glaze in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Reheat it gently before drizzling it over the chicken.
- Use different types of apples: While Granny Smith apples work great for this recipe, you can experiment with other apple varieties, such as Honeycrisp or Gala, for different levels of sweetness and tartness.
- Add a spicy kick: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the glaze. This will give the dish a spicy-sweet contrast.
- For extra crispy chicken: Double-dip the chicken tenders by dipping them in the egg and breading mixture twice. This will give the chicken an even crunchier texture.
- Air fryer option: If you’re looking to make this recipe a bit healthier, try cooking the breaded chicken tenders in an air fryer. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F, place the chicken tenders in the basket, and cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
For more tips on preparing chicken dishes, you can explore the Braised Chicken in the Oven with Crispy Skin.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What to use to glaze chicken?
For a delicious glaze like the one in the Apple and Honey Glazed Chicken Tenders Recipe, a combination of honey, apple, butter, apple cider vinegar, and spices works wonderfully. These ingredients provide sweetness, tang, and richness.
How do you make chicken more tender and juicy?
To keep chicken tenders tender and juicy, ensure that you don’t overcook them. Also, marinating the chicken in a mixture of buttermilk or yogurt for at least 30 minutes before cooking can help retain moisture. This recipe’s glaze adds extra moisture and flavor to the chicken as well.
Should I soak chicken tenders in milk?
Soaking chicken tenders in milk is not necessary for this recipe, but it can help tenderize the meat if you prefer. The breading and the apple honey glaze provide plenty of flavor and moisture, making the chicken tender without soaking.
Conclusion
The Apple and Honey Glazed Chicken Tenders Recipe offers a unique and flavorful twist on a beloved classic. With its crispy exterior, tender chicken, and mouthwatering apple and honey glaze, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re serving it as a main course, appetizer, or snack, this recipe is a fantastic choice for any occasion. With easy-to-follow steps and simple ingredients, you’ll be able to enjoy a delightful meal in no time. Try the Apple and Honey Glazed Chicken Tenders Recipe today and savor every bite of this delicious dish!
For more recipes, consider trying the Easy McCormick French Toast for a sweet breakfast treat!
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