Introduction

Honey Garlic Chicken Tenderloins offer a perfect balance of sweet and savory with a hint of spice. This quick and easy dish is great for busy weeknights yet impressive enough to serve guests. Tender chicken coated in a flavorful honey garlic sauce cooks up crispy and delicious every time.

Honey Garlic Chicken Tenderloins Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients

1 pound chicken tenderloins, about 8 tenders
3-4 tablespoons olive oil, divided
3/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
3/4 teaspoon garlic powder
3/4 teaspoon onion powder
3/4 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional
2 teaspoons minced garlic
1 tablespoon honey
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
1/2 tablespoon butter, optional

Instructions

Step 1: Remove the tendon from each chicken tenderloin by gripping it with a paper towel and pulling it straight out. For easier removal, place the tendon between the tines of a fork pressed against the end of the chicken.
Step 2: Place the whole chicken tenderloins in a shallow glass or non-plastic dish. You may cut them into cubes if you prefer. Add half of the olive oil and all the seasonings (salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and red pepper flakes if using). Mix well until all pieces are coated. Marinate for 15 minutes if time allows, or cook immediately.
Step 3: Preheat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the remaining olive oil to coat the bottom of the pan. When the oil shimmers and is hot, place the chicken pieces in the pan. They should sizzle upon contact. Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden and crispy.
Step 4: Reduce the heat, then add the honey, minced garlic, and chopped parsley. Stir carefully to coat the chicken, avoiding burning the garlic. Optionally, add butter for extra richness. Cook for about 2 more minutes or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F.

Tips & Variations

For a milder flavor, omit the red pepper flakes or reduce their amount.
Swap fresh parsley with cilantro or basil for a different fresh twist.
Try adding a squeeze of lemon juice after cooking for bright acidity.
Use boneless chicken breasts cut into strips as an alternative to tenderloins.

Storage

Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave until warmed through, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to keep the chicken moist.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken tenderloins for this recipe?

Yes, but make sure to fully thaw the chicken and pat it dry before seasoning and cooking to ensure even cooking and a crispy exterior.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

The best way is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Alternatively, cut into the thickest part—the juices should run clear without any pinkness.

Honey Garlic Chicken Tenderloins Recipe

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4.4 from 793 reviews

This Honey Garlic Chicken Tenderloins recipe features tender, flavorful chicken pieces pan-seared to a crispy golden brown and coated in a sweet and savory honey garlic glaze. Perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner, this dish combines a blend of spices and fresh garlic with a touch of honey and parsley, offering a delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors with a hint of heat from red pepper flakes. Ready in about 30 minutes, it’s an easy stovetop recipe ideal for busy weeknights.

Author: Daniel
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Dish
Method: Frying
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Seasoning

1 pound chicken tenderloins (about 8 tenders)
3/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
3/4 teaspoon garlic powder
3/4 teaspoon onion powder
3/4 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

For Cooking and Glaze

3–4 tablespoons olive oil, divided
2 teaspoons minced garlic
1 tablespoon honey
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
1/2 tablespoon butter (optional)

Instructions

Remove Tendons: Using a paper towel to grip, pull the tendons straight out from each chicken tenderloin. For easier removal, press a fork against the end of the chicken and pull the tendon between the tines.
Season the Chicken: Place the whole chicken tenderloins in a shallow glass or non-plastic dish. Add half of the olive oil and then sprinkle all the seasonings (salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and red pepper flakes if using). Mix well to coat all sides of the chicken evenly. For best flavor, marinate for 15 minutes or proceed to cooking immediately.
Preheat the Skillet: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the remaining olive oil, just enough to coat the pan bottom. Wait for the oil to shimmer, indicating it’s ready for cooking.
Cook the Chicken: Place each piece of chicken in the pan. You should hear a sizzle; if not, the oil isn’t hot enough. Cook the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side, until crispy and golden brown on both sides.
Add Honey Garlic Glaze: Reduce the heat to low. Add the minced garlic, honey, and chopped parsley to the pan, carefully stirring to coat the chicken without burning the garlic. Optionally, add half a tablespoon of butter for enhanced richness. Continue to cook for 2 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, ensuring it’s fully cooked and juicy.

Notes

Remove tendons carefully to improve texture.
Marinating the chicken for 15 minutes improves flavor but is optional for a quicker meal.
Use fresh minced garlic for the best aroma and taste.
Adjust red pepper flakes to control heat level.
Butter adds richness but can be omitted for a lighter dish.
Cooked chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.

Keywords: Honey Garlic Chicken Tenderloins, Crispy Chicken, Pan-Fried Chicken, Quick Chicken Dinner, Honey Garlic Sauce