Honey Garlic Chicken Tenderloins Recipe
This Honey Garlic Chicken Tenderloins recipe delivers juicy, crispy chicken tenderloins coated in a flavorful honey garlic sauce. With simple seasonings and a quick stovetop cooking method, this dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner that’s both easy and delicious. The tenderloins are first marinated in a blend of garlic powder, paprika, and other spices, then pan-seared to perfection before being glazed with a savory honey garlic sauce and fresh parsley.
- Author: Lena
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Halal
Chicken and Seasoning
- 1 pound chicken tenderloins (about 8 tenders)
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 3/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 3/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 3/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Cooking and Sauce
- 3–4 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 1/2 tablespoon butter (optional)
- Remove Tendons: Grab each chicken tenderloin with a paper towel and pull out the tendon straight from the end. It helps to press the tendon against a fork’s tines for easier removal.
- Season the Chicken: Place the tenderloins in a shallow glass or non-plastic dish. Add half of the olive oil along with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and optional red pepper flakes. Mix well ensuring each piece is evenly coated. For best flavor, marinate for 15 minutes or cook immediately.
- Heat the Skillet: Preheat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the remaining olive oil, just enough to coat the pan bottom. Wait until the oil shimmers and is hot enough to make the chicken sizzle when added.
- Cook the Chicken: Place the chicken tenderloins in the skillet without overcrowding. Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.
- Add Honey Garlic Glaze: Lower the heat to medium-low. Add minced garlic, honey, and fresh parsley to the skillet. Optionally, add 1/2 tablespoon of butter for extra flavor. Stir gently to coat the chicken tenderloins with the glaze.
- Finish Cooking: Continue cooking for another 2 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Be careful not to burn the garlic while glazing.
Notes
- Removing the tendon improves texture and tenderness of the chicken tenderloins.
- Marinating the chicken for at least 15 minutes enhances flavor but is optional if pressed for time.
- Adjust red pepper flakes to control the spiciness of the dish.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is fully cooked to 165°F for safety.
- Butter is optional but adds richness to the sauce.
- Serve with rice, steamed vegetables, or over a salad for a complete meal.
Keywords: honey garlic chicken, chicken tenderloins, quick dinner, stovetop chicken, easy chicken recipe, honey garlic sauce