How to Make Apple and Honey-Glazed Chicken Tenders

Sweet, savory, and irresistible, apple and honey-glazed chicken tenders are the ultimate crowd-pleaser. These golden, crispy tenders are coated in a delectable glaze made from fresh apples and honey, creating the perfect balance of flavor. Whether for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this recipe is a guaranteed hit!

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Why You’ll Love Apple Honey-Glazed Chicken Tenders
Discover why .

Why This Recipe is a Must-Try

Apple and honey-glazed chicken tenders are the perfect fusion of sweet and savory flavors. With their crispy coating, tender chicken, and rich glaze, they offer a culinary experience that’s hard to match. Here’s why this recipe is a standout:

• Balanced Flavor: The sweetness of honey and apples contrasts beautifully with the savory chicken.
• Versatile Cooking Methods: Can be fried, baked, or air-fried to suit your preferences.
• Family-Friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike, making it a great addition to any meal plan.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Chicken Tenders

Tips for Selecting Fresh, High-Quality Chicken

• Look for tenderloins or boneless chicken breast strips.
• Choose chicken with a pinkish hue and no unpleasant odor.
• Chicken that is organic or free-range typically offers the best flavor.

The Glaze

Essential Ingredients

• Apples: Use Honeycrisp for sweetness or Granny Smith for tartness.
• Honey: Opt for local or raw honey for a richer taste.
• Apple cider vinegar: Provides a tangy kick to balance the sweetness.
• Spices: Cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of cayenne for depth.
• Butter: Cold butter creates a velvety finish.

The Coating

Ingredients for the Breading and Seasoning

• Flour: A base layer for even coating.
• Eggs: Essential for binding the breadcrumbs.
• Panko Breadcrumbs: Delivers the ultimate crunch.
• Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika to enhance the flavor profile.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Chicken

1. Rinse chicken tenderloins under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
2. Trim any visible tendons or connective tissue.
3. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder to create a savory foundation of flavor.

Marinating

1. In a bowl, mix buttermilk, honey, and a splash of apple cider vinegar.
2. Submerge the chicken and let it marinate for 2-3 hours (overnight for deeper flavor).
3. Remove from the marinade and let excess liquid drip off.

Breading the Chicken

1. Dredge the chicken in seasoned flour.
2. Dip into an egg wash (eggs mixed with a dash of Dijon mustard and hot sauce).
3. Coat in panko breadcrumbs, pressing firmly for even adhesion.

Cooking the Chicken

Deep Frying

• Heat oil to 325°F.
• Fry the chicken in batches for 3-4 minutes, then raise the temperature to 350°F and continue frying for an additional 2 minutes, or until golden and crispy.

Air-Frying

• Preheat air fryer to 375°F.
• Cook tenders for 6-7 minutes per side, or until crispy.

Baking

• Preheat oven to 425°F.
• Bake for 10 minutes per side, then broil for 2-3 minutes for extra crispiness.

Making the Glaze

1. Grate the apples and cook them in a saucepan with honey, apple cider vinegar, and spices until tender.
2. Simmer until thickened, then strain for a smooth consistency.
3. Stir in cold butter for a glossy finish.

Glazing the Chicken

• Brush the glaze generously over hot chicken tenders.
• Optionally, drizzle additional glaze before serving.

Expert Tips for Success

Marinating Secrets

• Add a pinch of baking soda to the marinade for extra tenderness.
• For a spicy twist, include chili flakes in the marinade.

Perfecting the Coating

• To prevent clumping, use one hand for handling wet ingredients and the other for dry ingredients.
• Chill breaded chicken for 15 minutes before frying to set the coating.

Cooking Techniques

• Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F internally.
• To maintain a consistent oil temperature, avoid overcrowding the pan.

Customization Ideas

• Substitute pears for apples in the glaze.
• Incorporate ginger or allspice to introduce a distinctive flavor profile.
• Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free option.

Serving Suggestions

Side Pairings

• Creamy coleslaw with a honey mustard dressing.
• Roasted sweet potatoes or garlic mashed potatoes.
• Steamed rice or quinoa for a lighter option.

Dipping Sauces

• Classic honey mustard.
• Maple-bourbon sauce for a bold pairing.
• Spiced yogurt dip for a refreshing contrast.

Presentation Tips

• Serve tenders on a wooden board with fresh apple slices and parsley.
• Add ramekins of dipping sauces for an elegant touch.

Nutrition Breakdown

Nutrient	Per Serving (4 Tenders)
Calories	480
Protein	25g
Fat	15g
Carbohydrates	55g

Tips:

• For a lighter version, bake instead of frying.
• Reduce honey in the glaze for fewer calories.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the tenders up to the breading stage and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Fry or bake when ready, then glaze while hot.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?

Store glazed tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven at 350°F to maintain crispiness.

Can I substitute ingredients for dietary preferences?

Absolutely. Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour for a gluten-free option, or replace honey with maple syrup for a vegan-friendly glaze.

More Recipes to Love

• How to Make Lemon Chicken Pasta
• Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps Your Family Will Love
• Pineapple Casserole is a Southern Classic with a Twist

Final Thoughts

These Apple Honey-Glazed Chicken Tenders are the perfect combination of sweet, savory, and satisfying. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick dinner or preparing a meal for a special occasion, this dish delivers both flavor and ease. With a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create a delicious meal that everyone will love. Don’t be afraid to experiment with the glaze and make it your own – the possibilities are endless! If you’re looking for a fresh twist, try this apple and honey-glazed chicken tenders recipe using fresh apples to bring out the natural sweetness in every bite. I hope you give this recipe a try and enjoy every bite!