Bring a delightful fusion of sweet and savory to your table with this apple and honey-glazed chicken tenders recipe. Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 lb of chicken tenders
- ½ cup of honey
- ¼ cup of apple jelly (or substitute with apple butter or fresh chopped apples)
- 2 tbsp of soy sauce
- 1 tsp of garlic powder
- Optional: fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary
Pro Tip: If you’re missing apple jelly, you can use other creative alternatives like tart Michigan cherry jelly or orange marmalade. Learn more about creative uses for apple jelly.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Marinade
Combine honey, apple jelly, soy sauce, and garlic powder in a bowl. Mix well until smooth. This marinade strikes the perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors.
For more ideas on preparing the perfect chicken dish, check out how to brine chicken for flavor.
2. Marinate the Chicken
Coat the chicken tenders with the marinade and let them rest for 30 minutes. For deeper flavor, marinate in the refrigerator for 2–3 hours.
Pro Tip: Be sure to discard any leftover marinade that has touched raw chicken to ensure food safety.
3. Cooking Methods
Grilling (Preferred for a Smoky Flavor):
- Preheat the grill to medium heat.
- Cook chicken tenders for 5–7 minutes per side, brushing with extra marinade during the last few minutes.
Baking (Great for Any Season):
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Arrange the chicken tenders on a lined baking tray.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Want to try other chicken recipes? Explore how to cook frozen chicken breasts in an air fryer for another quick dinner idea.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your apple and honey-glazed chicken tenders with:
- Steamed vegetables (e.g., broccoli or carrots).
- Mashed sweet potatoes for an added hint of sweetness.
- Rice pilaf to soak up the extra glaze.
For dessert inspiration, consider this apple and pecan danish pastry tart recipe.
Variations to Try
- Substitute apple jelly with apple butter for a richer glaze.
- Add a dash of cayenne pepper for a spicy twist.
- Replace chicken with tofu for a vegetarian-friendly option.
Nutritional Information
This recipe is approximately:
- 320 calories per serving
- 30g protein, 15g carbohydrates, 8g fats
FAQs
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the chicken and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Q: What can I pair with this recipe for drinks?
A crisp, chilled white wine or apple cider pairs beautifully.
Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free soy sauce.
External Links for Reference
Internal Linking Opportunities
- Link to how to cook frozen chicken breasts in an air fryer under alternative chicken cooking methods.
- Include apple and pecan danish pastry tart recipe for dessert pairing.
- Mention homemade chicken salad chick recipe as a lighter chicken dish option.
This blend of sweet and savory is perfect for any occasion—give it a try and let it become your new go-to recipe!