Introduction

Honey Garlic Chicken Tenderloins offer a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors wrapped around tender, juicy chicken. This quick and easy dish is ideal for a weeknight dinner or a casual meal with family and friends.

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 grabbing it with a paper towel and pulling it straight out. It helps to press the tendon against the end of the chicken with the tines of a fork as you pull.
Step 2: Place the whole tenderloins in a shallow glass or non-plastic dish. If preferred, you may cut the chicken into cubes. Add half of the olive oil along with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and red pepper flakes if using. Mix well to coat all sides of the chicken. Marinate for 15 minutes if time allows, or proceed to cooking immediately.
Step 3: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the remaining olive oil, enough to coat the bottom of the pan. When the oil shimmers and is hot, place the chicken pieces in the pan. They should sizzle on contact; if not, wait for the oil to heat further.
Step 4: Cook the chicken for 4-5 minutes on each side until both sides are crispy and golden brown.
Step 5: Lower the heat, then add the honey, minced garlic, and chopped parsley to the skillet. If desired, add the butter now to enrich the flavor. Stir gently to coat the chicken in the sauce, cooking for an additional 2 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

Tips & Variations

For extra heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne pepper.
Try substituting fresh thyme or basil for parsley to change the herb profile.
Using a cast iron skillet can help achieve a better sear on the chicken.
Marinating the chicken longer (up to 2 hours) deepens the flavor.

Storage

Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat or in the microwave to maintain moisture. Avoid overheating to keep the chicken tender.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenderloins?

Yes, chicken breasts can be used. Cut them into strips or bite-sized pieces and adjust cooking time as needed to ensure they are cooked through and remain juicy.

Is it necessary to remove the tendon from chicken tenderloins?

Removing the tendon makes the chicken easier to eat and improves texture. It’s recommended but optional if you prefer to skip this step for convenience.

Honey Garlic Chicken Tenderloins Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 95 reviews

This Honey Garlic Chicken Tenderloins recipe features tender chicken cooked to crispy perfection with a flavorful blend of spices, garlic, and sweet honey glaze. Quick to prepare and cook in a skillet, it makes a delicious and satisfying meal with a touch of fresh parsley and optional buttery richness.

Author: Ella
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Frying
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Marinade

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

Honey Garlic Glaze

2 teaspoons minced garlic
1 tablespoon honey
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
1/2 tablespoon butter, optional

Instructions

Remove tendons: Using a paper towel for grip, pull the tendon straight out from each chicken tenderloin. Press the tendon against the end of the chicken with the tines of a fork to assist removal.
Marinate chicken: Place the whole tenderloins in a shallow glass or non-plastic dish. Add half of the olive oil along with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and optional red pepper flakes. Mix well to coat all pieces evenly. Marinate for 15 minutes if time allows, or proceed immediately to cooking.
Preheat skillet: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the remaining olive oil to coat the bottom of the pan. Wait until the oil shimmers and is hot enough to sizzle the chicken.
Cook chicken: Place the chicken tenders in the hot skillet. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side until each side is crispy and golden brown.
Make honey garlic glaze: Reduce heat to low. Add minced garlic, honey, and chopped parsley to the skillet. Stir carefully to coat the chicken without burning the garlic. Optionally, add half a tablespoon of butter for enhanced flavor. Continue cooking for about 2 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

Notes

Removing tendons improves the texture and eating experience of the chicken tenderloins.
Marinating the chicken for 15 minutes helps enhance flavor but can be skipped to save time.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is fully cooked to 165°F for safe consumption.
The optional butter adds richness but can be omitted for a lighter dish.
Red pepper flakes provide heat; adjust or omit according to taste preferences.
Serve with rice, vegetables, or salad as desired.

Keywords: Honey Garlic Chicken, Chicken Tenderloins, Skillet Chicken, Quick Chicken Recipe, Honey Chicken