To make this dish, you will need the following ingredients:
- For the Chicken:
- 1 lb chicken tenders
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (optional, for light crispiness)
- For the Spicy Honey Garlic Butter Glaze:
- 1 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Pinch of salt
Directions
Follow these simple steps to create your delicious Spicy Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders:
- Step 1: Season the Chicken: In a bowl, mix chicken tenders with garlic powder, paprika, chili powder, black pepper, salt, and flour if using.
- Step 2: Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add seasoned tenders and cook for 3-4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through (internal temp: 165°F / 74°C). Remove and set aside.
- Step 3: Make the Glaze: Lower heat to medium. In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic for 30 seconds. Stir in honey, red pepper flakes, and a pinch of salt. Let it bubble for 1-2 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Step 4: Coat the Chicken: Return chicken to the pan, toss well to coat in the glaze. Spoon extra sauce over and let rest off heat for 1-2 minutes.
- Step 5: Serve: Serve warm with rice, veggies, or enjoy alone—don’t forget to drizzle extra glaze on top!
Pro Tips for Making Spicy Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders
- For extra crunch, try adding panko breadcrumbs to the flour before coating the chicken.
- Adjust the red pepper flakes based on your heat preference. Less for mild, more for maximum kick.
- For a more intense garlic flavor, let the garlic sauté a little longer, but be careful not to burn it.
- For a touch of acidity, serve with a wedge of lemon on the side.
- Pair with crispy veggies or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?
Absolutely! Just ensure they are thinly sliced so they cook evenly.
2. Can I make the glaze in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the glaze ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat before use.
3. What can I serve these chicken tenders with?
These tenders pair well with rice, steamed vegetables, or a light salad.
4. How do I store leftovers?
Place leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to keep them crispy.
5. Is this recipe spicy?
The heat can be adjusted based on your preference by changing the amount of red pepper flakes.
Conclusion
Spicy Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders are a delicious and easy way to add excitement to your dinner routine. The combination of sweet, spicy, and garlicky flavors makes for a dish that is both comforting and exhilarating. Give this recipe a try, and don’t forget to get creative with your sides to make it your own! You won’t regret it!
