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Crispy Honey Lemon Chicken Tenders Recipe

4.4 from 64 reviews

Crispy Honey Lemon Chicken Tenders are a delightful, easy-to-make dish featuring tender chicken coated in a crispy breadcrumb crust, baked or fried to golden perfection and drizzled with a sweet and tangy honey lemon sauce. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or main dish, these tenders combine crunchy texture with bright citrus flavors for a crowd-pleasing treat.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken Tenders

  • 1 lb chicken tenders

Breading

  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs, beaten

Honey Lemon Sauce

  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Breading: Set up a breading station by placing flour in one bowl, beaten eggs in a second bowl, and seasoned breadcrumbs (mixed with salt and pepper) in a third bowl.
  2. Bread the Chicken Tenders: Dip each chicken tender first into the flour, shaking off excess, then into the eggs, and finally coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture.
  3. Cook the Chicken Tenders: Choose your cooking method—either bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) on a greased baking sheet for 15-20 minutes until golden and cooked through, flipping once halfway; or shallow fry in medium-hot oil for 3-4 minutes per side until crispy and fully cooked.
  4. Make the Honey Lemon Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together honey, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest until well combined.
  5. Serve: Once the chicken tenders are cooked and crispy, transfer them to a serving plate and drizzle the honey lemon sauce evenly over the top. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Notes

  • You can substitute panko breadcrumbs for extra crispiness.
  • Adjust the lemon juice and honey ratio to taste for more sweetness or tartness in the sauce.
  • For a healthier version, opt for baking instead of frying.
  • Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying to prevent greasy tenders.
  • Serve with a side of fresh salad or dipping sauce of choice.

Keywords: chicken tenders, honey lemon chicken, crispy chicken, baked chicken tenders, sweet and tangy chicken