Honey Garlic Baked Chicken Tenders | Sticky-Sweet Oven Dinner Idea

Oven baked chicken tenders covered in sticky honey garlic glaze are the perfect mix of savory and sweet. This recipe delivers golden crispy tenders without any deep-frying or complicated prep. They’re made with simple ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen, and they bake up in under 30 minutes.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to make chicken tenders with maximum flavor, including ingredient tips, step-by-step instructions, serving ideas, storage methods, and smart customizations to fit your lifestyle.

Whether you’re feeding kids or prepping for game night, these honey garlic baked chicken tenders are always a win.

Why You’ll Love This Honey Garlic Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe

If you’re searching for chicken tender dinner ideas that deliver on both taste and simplicity, this recipe is for you.

• Bakes crispy without deep frying
• Balanced sweet and savory flavor from homemade glaze
• Kid-approved and adult-friendly
• Great for weekly meal prep or quick dinners
• Easily pairs with many side dishes

The honey garlic sauce clings perfectly to the crunchy coating, giving every bite a burst of flavor. You don’t need fancy tools, just a baking tray, mixing bowl, and a few pantry staples. Whether it’s your first time cooking or you just need a reliable go-to, these oven-baked tenders are dependable and delicious.

Use fresh ingredients where possible. Garlic should be minced fresh, not powdered. Honey should be smooth and pourable for even mixing. Chicken tenders cook quickly and remain juicy when baked properly. This dish also works well with common sides like steamed broccoli, seasoned rice, or a crisp coleslaw.

Honey Garlic Baked Chicken Tenders Ingredients

Here’s everything you need to make these chicken tenders with honey garlic glaze. These quantities serve 4.

• 1 ½ pounds chicken tenders (about 12 pieces)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)
• 2 large eggs (beaten)
• 1 ½ cups panko breadcrumbs (for crispy texture)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional, in breadcrumb coating)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
• Cooking spray or olive oil spray (for baking)

Honey Garlic Sauce
• ¼ cup honey
• 3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 4 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
• 2 tablespoons water

For garnish (optional):
• Chopped fresh parsley
• Toasted sesame seeds

Use vibrant, fresh parsley for color and texture. You can also add a splash of lemon juice to the sauce for brightness.

Try this sauce on leftovers or drizzled over vegetables. These same ingredients also work well in recipes like the Easy Chicken Pot Pie with Pie Crust.

How to Make Honey Garlic Baked Chicken Tenders

Follow these simple steps to get the perfect texture and flavor.

1. Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place a wire rack on top. Spray the rack lightly with cooking spray.
2. Dredge the Chicken: Place flour, beaten eggs, and panko breadcrumbs (mixed with salt, pepper, and optional garlic powder) into three separate bowls. Coat each chicken tender first in flour, then dip in egg, then press into the breadcrumb mix.
3. Bake: Arrange the breaded chicken tenders on the wire rack. Spray the tops with cooking spray. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the coating is golden and chicken is cooked to 165°F.
4. Make the Sauce: While the chicken bakes, add honey, soy sauce, brown sugar, and minced garlic to a small saucepan. Heat over medium until bubbling. In a separate bowl, whisk cornstarch and water, then stir into sauce to thicken. Simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until glossy.
5. Coat the Tenders: Remove chicken from the oven and let cool for 2 minutes. Use tongs to dip each tender into the warm sauce or drizzle over top.

These steps are quick, and cleanup is minimal. For another quick and easy dinner option, see Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs.

Serving Suggestions for Chicken Tender Recipes

Honey garlic chicken tenders are versatile and work in many meals. Here are serving ideas that balance flavors and textures:

Serve over steamed jasmine rice for a sweet-savory bowl.

Tuck into soft tortillas with shredded lettuce for chicken finger tacos.

Pair with garlic roasted green beans or steamed broccoli for a full plate.

Slice and top onto a crunchy salad with sesame vinaigrette.

Add to a wrap with creamy ranch and shredded carrots.

This meal works well with bold and simple side dishes alike. The sauce is strong enough to pair with plain carbs like white rice or toast, and light enough not to overpower vegetables.

Want to level up your dinner plans? Try it with Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice on the side.

Chicken Tender Dinner Ideas – Variations & Customizations

You can adjust this dish easily for different diets and preferences. Here are some quick ideas:

• Swap Protein: Use boneless chicken thighs, cut into strips, for juicier tenders.

• Make it Spicy: Add ½ teaspoon chili flakes or a squirt of sriracha to the sauce.

• Low-Carb Option: Replace breadcrumbs with crushed pork-free pork rinds or almond flour.

• Add Vegetables: Coat and bake thin zucchini sticks alongside the tenders.

• Different Sauce: Try barbecue, teriyaki, or a buffalo glaze instead of honey garlic.

These changes let you use what you have or match the flavor to your meal plan.

Need inspiration for a creamy and cozy alternative? Visit Sour Cream Chicken Enchilada Recipe.

What to Do With Chicken Tenders – Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover baked chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

For reheating, place them on a baking tray and warm in a 375°F oven for about 8 to 10 minutes. This keeps the coating crisp. You can also use an air fryer set at 350°F for 5 to 6 minutes.

To freeze, wrap the cooled tenders in foil or parchment and store in a zip-top freezer bag for up to 2 months.

When reheating from frozen, bake at 375°F for 20 minutes or until hot throughout. Add a spoonful of extra honey garlic sauce if needed.

Pro Tips for Perfect Chicken Breast Tender Recipes

Use these techniques for better texture, taste, and ease in cooking.

• Use a Wire Rack: Elevates the chicken for even crisping and air circulation.

• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Space each tender so they bake, not steam.

• Glaze Timing: Apply the sauce just before serving to avoid sogginess.

• Breadcrumb Boost: Toast panko lightly in a dry pan before breading for extra crunch.

• Temperature Matters: Always cook chicken to 165°F internal temperature.

These tips help even new cooks get consistent results with every batch.

Common Mistakes to Avoid with Chicken Strip Recipes

Avoiding these missteps keeps your baked tenders delicious every time.

• Skipping the Rack: A flat pan makes the underside soggy.

• Too Much Sauce: Over-glazing can make the crust fall apart.

• Not Flipping Halfway: Flipping ensures even browning on both sides.

• Uneven Sizing: Cut chicken pieces evenly so they cook at the same rate.

• Rushing the Dredging: Skipping steps or hurrying can make coating fall off.

Avoiding these common mistakes saves time and keeps your results crispy and tender.

Chicken Tender Ideas – Final Thoughts

Honey garlic baked chicken tenders bring together simple ingredients and bold flavor in a dish that’s easy to prepare and hard to resist. They’re crispy, sticky, sweet, and satisfying.

Keep this recipe in your weekly rotation and enjoy it as a meal prep go-to or quick family dinner. Don’t forget to pin this recipe and share it with your friends, it’s always a hit.

FAQs About Honey Garlic Baked Chicken Tenders

What’s the best way to keep honey garlic baked chicken tenders crispy?

Use a wire rack on your baking tray and avoid stacking the tenders after baking. Always let them rest for 2 minutes before serving. If you coat them in sauce, do so just before eating.

Can I make honey garlic chicken tenders gluten-free?

Yes. Use gluten-free flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs for breading. Also, check your soy sauce label or replace it with tamari to ensure it’s wheat-free.

How long do you bake chicken tenders in the oven?

Bake them at 400°F for 18 to 20 minutes, flipping once halfway through. Always check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safe consumption.

Are these chicken tenders good for kids?

Yes. They’re sweet, savory, and not spicy unless you choose to add heat. Cut into smaller pieces for toddlers and serve with fruit or rice for a balanced meal.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken tenders?

You can slice chicken breasts into strips about 1 inch wide to mimic tenders. They bake the same way but may take 2 extra minutes depending on thickness.

Honey Garlic Baked Chicken Tenders | Sticky-Sweet Oven Dinner Idea

Author: Ellie Cooking Method: Oven Baked