Create Crispy Honey Lemon Chicken Tenders for a Delicious Meal!

Crispy, juicy, and bursting with flavor – that’s the best way to describe these Crispy Honey Lemon Chicken Tenders. With a perfectly crunchy coating and a sweet and tangy honey lemon glaze, this dish is sure to be a hit with the whole family. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, these Crispy Honey Lemon Chicken Tenders deliver on both taste and convenience.

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The Delightful Blend of Crispy Chicken and Honey Lemon Flavor

Chicken tenders are a beloved protein, offering a delicious and versatile canvas for all sorts of flavor profiles. In this recipe, we’re taking the humble chicken tender and elevating it with a crispy breading and a sweet and tangy honey lemon glaze. The result is a dish that’s bursting with contrasting textures and mouthwatering flavors.

The key to achieving the perfect crispy coating on these chicken tenders lies in the breading process. By dredging the tenders in flour, dipping them in egg, and then coating them with crunchy panko breadcrumbs, you’ll create a delightful crunchy exterior that seals in all the juicy goodness of the chicken.

The honey lemon glaze is the real star of the show, however. The combination of sweet honey and tangy lemon juice creates a balance of flavors that perfectly complements the crispy chicken. It’s the perfect finishing touch that takes these Crispy Honey Lemon Chicken Tenders to new heights of deliciousness.

Ingredients for Crispy Honey Lemon Chicken Tenders

• 1 lb chicken tenders
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp butter

Preparing the Crispy Coating and Cooking the Chicken Tenders

The key to achieving that perfectly crispy coating on these Crispy Honey Lemon Chicken Tenders is all in the breading process. Start by mixing the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in a shallow bowl. In a separate bowl, beat the egg, and in a third bowl, place the breadcrumbs.

Dredge each chicken tender in the flour mixture, making sure to coat all sides. Next, dip the floured chicken tenders into the beaten egg, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, coat the tenders in the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to help the crumbs adhere.

In a skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil and butter. Once the oil is shimmering, add the breaded chicken tenders and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Be sure to work in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding the pan.

Creating the Honey Lemon Glaze

While the chicken tenders are cooking, whisk together the honey and lemon juice in a small bowl to create the delectable honey lemon glaze. This sweet and tangy sauce is the perfect complement to the crispy chicken.

Serving Crispy Honey Lemon Chicken Tenders

Once the chicken tenders are cooked, drizzle the honey lemon glaze over the top, ensuring each tender is evenly coated. Serve these Crispy Honey Lemon Chicken Tenders immediately, while they’re hot and crispy. They make a fantastic main dish, but they also work wonderfully as an appetizer or snack.

For a complete meal, consider serving the Crispy Honey Lemon Chicken Tenders with a side of coleslaw, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad. The sweet and tangy flavors pair beautifully with a variety of sides. Don’t forget to offer up some extra honey lemon glaze for dipping!

Variations and Creative Twists

While this Crispy Honey Lemon Chicken Tenders recipe is already a winner, there are plenty of ways to put your own spin on it. For a spicy twist, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the flour mixture. You could also swap out the honey for a different sweetener, such as maple syrup or agave nectar, to create unique flavor profiles.

If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can bake the breaded chicken tenders instead of frying them. Simply arrange the coated tenders on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.

And for those with dietary restrictions, you can easily make this recipe gluten-free by using gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs. The end result will still be just as crispy and delicious.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Crispy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders
• Chicken Bacon Ranch Lettuce Boats
• Hot Honey Chicken Tenders

FAQs about Crispy Honey Lemon Chicken Tenders

What is the secret to crispy chicken?

The secret to achieving crispy chicken tenders is all in the breading process. Dredging the chicken in flour, dipping it in egg, and then coating it with breadcrumbs (preferably panko) creates a delightful crunchy exterior that seals in all the juicy goodness of the meat.

How do I crisp up chicken tenders?

To crisp up chicken tenders, follow these tips:

• Make sure the chicken is thoroughly patted dry before breading.
• Use a combination of flour, egg, and breadcrumbs to create a multi-layer coating.
• Fry the chicken tenders in hot oil (350°F-375°F) to achieve a golden-brown crust.
• Avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lead to steaming rather than crisping.
• Let the tenders rest on a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to help maintain crispiness.

Why do you rub lemon on chicken before cooking?

Rubbing lemon juice on chicken before cooking helps to tenderize the meat and add a bright, tangy flavor. The citric acid in lemon breaks down the proteins in the chicken, making it more tender and juicy. It also helps to balance out the richness of the meat, creating a more well-rounded flavor profile.

Why isn’t my chicken tenders crispy?

There are a few common reasons why your chicken tenders might not be turning out crispy:

• The oil wasn’t hot enough – Make sure the oil is heated to the proper temperature (350°F-375°F) before adding the chicken.
• Overcrowding the pan – Fry the chicken in batches to avoid steaming the tenders instead of crisping them.
• Not using a crispy breading – The combination of flour, egg, and breadcrumbs is key for achieving that signature crunch.
• Not letting the tenders rest – Allow the fried chicken to rest on a wire rack or paper towels to help maintain the crispiness.

Conclusion

Crispy, juicy, and bursting with sweet and tangy flavor, these Crispy Honey Lemon Chicken Tenders are a true delight. Whether you’re serving them as a main course, an appetizer, or a snack, they’re sure to be a hit with your family and friends. So why not give this recipe a try and experience the magic of perfectly crispy chicken tenders with a delectable honey lemon glaze?

Craving even more magical meals? Browse Amelia’s Pinterest boards for quick dinners, cozy bakes, and tons of flavorful inspiration.

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