Name: Crispy Honey Lemon Chicken Tenders Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken tenders; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; 1 tsp paprika; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1 large egg, beaten; 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko); 1/4 cup honey; 2 tbsp lemon juice; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tbsp butter

Jump to Recipe

If you’ve been searching for a dinner idea that’s irresistibly crunchy, tangy, and sweet, look no further than these Crispy Honey Lemon Chicken Tenders. Each piece is coated in a perfectly seasoned crust, then drizzled or tossed with a vibrant honey lemon sauce that makes every bite zing with flavor. These tenders are as fun to eat as they are to share and honestly, they’re just as welcome at a weeknight dinner table as they are at a game day spread. Get ready for a recipe that is sure to become one of your most requested favorites!

Crispy Honey Lemon Chicken Tenders Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Crispy Honey Lemon Chicken Tenders is how such basic, familiar ingredients can be transformed into something extraordinary. Each component below is chosen to guarantee that signature golden crunch, juicy chicken, and a honey lemon glaze that’s anything but boring.

Chicken tenders (1 lb): The star of the show! These are naturally tender and cook up quickly for an easy meal.
All-purpose flour (1 cup): Provides that all-important first layer of crispiness and helps the seasonings stick.
Garlic powder (1 tsp): Adds subtle savory depth, boosting the overall flavor profile.
Onion powder (1 tsp): Enhances both the aroma and taste, giving a gentle sweetness to the coating.
Paprika (1 tsp): Infuses a mild smokiness and gives the breadcrumb crust that beautiful, golden hue.
Salt (1/2 tsp): Essential for bringing all the flavors to life and seasoning the chicken perfectly.
Black pepper (1/4 tsp): Just enough to add a gentle kick without overpowering the other flavors.
Egg, beaten (1 large): Acts as the “glue,” ensuring the breadcrumb layer adheres flawlessly to the chicken.
Bread crumbs (preferably panko, 1 cup): Panko is wonderfully light and ultra-crispy, but any kind of breadcrumbs will work.
Honey (1/4 cup): Delivers luscious natural sweetness for the sticky, glossy sauce.
Lemon juice (2 tbsp): Provides that essential bright, citrusy tang—we recommend freshly squeezed for best flavor.
Olive oil (1 tbsp): Adds richness to the sauce and helps it coat the tenders beautifully.
Butter (1 tbsp): Rounds out the sauce, lending silkiness and extra flavor.

How to Make Crispy Honey Lemon Chicken Tenders

Step 1: Prep Your Baking Sheet

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This simple step guarantees easy cleanup and helps prevent the chicken from sticking, making your Crispy Honey Lemon Chicken Tenders turn out picture-perfect every time.

Step 2: Set Up Your Breading Stations

In a shallow bowl, combine the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Give it all a good stir so the seasoning is evenly distributed—this is your secret weapon for super flavorful tenders! Set up two more bowls: one with the beaten egg, and one with the breadcrumbs, so you can work assembly-line style.

Step 3: Dredge and Coat the Chicken

Take each chicken tender and dip it first in the seasoned flour, ensuring every nook is covered. Next, dunk it in the beaten egg for that crucial sticky layer, then coat it well with the panko breadcrumbs. Press gently to ensure those crumbs cling tightly for maximum crunch. Place each coated tender on your prepared baking sheet, spacing them out so they crisp up instead of steam.

Step 4: Bake Until Golden and Crispy

Slide the tray into your preheated oven and bake for 15–20 minutes. Be sure to turn the tenders halfway through cooking; this ensures even browning and crispiness all around. You’ll know they’re ready when they’re golden, cooked through, and the kitchen smells absolutely irresistible!

Step 5: Make the Honey Lemon Sauce

While your tenders finish baking, grab a small saucepan and combine the honey, lemon juice, olive oil, and butter. Warm over medium heat, stirring continuously, until the butter melts and the sauce is glossy and smooth. This sweet-tangy glaze is what sets Crispy Honey Lemon Chicken Tenders apart from the crowd!

Step 6: Dress Up Your Tenders

Once the tenders are out of the oven, you have a choice: drizzle the honey lemon sauce over the top for a gorgeous finishing touch, or gently toss the tenders in a bowl with the sauce for a thicker, stickier coating. Either way, serve them up while they’re piping hot and enjoy the rush of flavor in every bite.

How to Serve Crispy Honey Lemon Chicken Tenders

Garnishes

For a pop of color and freshness, sprinkle your Crispy Honey Lemon Chicken Tenders with chopped parsley, thinly sliced green onions, or even a light dusting of extra lemon zest. A few sesame seeds are also a deliciously crunchy addition if you have them on hand.

Side Dishes

These tenders are wonderfully versatile! For a classic meal, pair them with fries or roasted potatoes. Looking for something lighter? Try serving them with a vibrant green salad, steamed broccoli, or even a simple coleslaw to balance the flavors and textures.

Creative Ways to Present

Get playful with your plating! Pile the tenders on a wooden board with toothpicks for sharing, tuck them into soft buns with extra sauce and fresh greens for easy sliders, or arrange them over a bed of rice with a sprinkle of chives for a stunning weeknight dinner. However you serve, the Crispy Honey Lemon Chicken Tenders will be the star.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover Crispy Honey Lemon Chicken Tenders (it does happen, occasionally!), let them cool to room temperature first. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they’ll stay tasty for up to three days.

Freezing

Absolutely! For longer storage, arrange the cooled, unsauced tenders in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Transfer the frozen tenders to a zip-top freezer bag and they’ll keep well for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

For the crispiest results, reheat the tenders in a 375°F (190°C) oven on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes, or until piping hot. If they’ve already been sauced, cover loosely with foil to prevent the glaze from burning. The air fryer also works beautifully here!

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?

Absolutely! Just slice boneless, skinless chicken breasts into strips about the same size as traditional tenders. The result will be just as juicy and delicious, perfect for Crispy Honey Lemon Chicken Tenders.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Definitely! Swap out the all-purpose flour for your favorite gluten-free blend and use gluten-free breadcrumbs or panko. You’ll still get that fantastic crispy texture.

What’s the best way to keep the crust from falling off?

The key is to press the breadcrumbs onto the tenders firmly and make sure you’re not skipping the flour or egg steps. Also, avoid overcrowding the baking sheet, so hot air can circulate and keep each tender nice and crisp.

Is there a way to make these in an air fryer?

Yes! Arrange the breaded tenders in a single layer in your air fryer basket and cook at 400°F for about 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through. They’ll come out just as crunchy as the oven version.

Can I double the honey lemon sauce for extra dipping?

Of course! It’s never a bad idea to have extra sauce on the side for dipping—just increase the honey, lemon juice, olive oil, and butter in the same ratios and serve some in a small bowl alongside your Crispy Honey Lemon Chicken Tenders.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something about the combination of golden, crunchy chicken and fresh honey lemon glaze that is utterly irresistible. If you want to brighten up your dinner routine or just make someone’s day, these Crispy Honey Lemon Chicken Tenders are exactly what you need. Give this recipe a try—I know it’ll be a new favorite in your home!

Crispy Honey Lemon Chicken Tenders Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 23 reviews

Author: lilan
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

These Crispy Honey Lemon Chicken Tenders are a delightful combination of crunchy breadcrumbs, tender chicken, and a sweet citrusy glaze. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner that the whole family will love!

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a shallow bowl, combine flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Dip each chicken tender in the flour mixture, then in the beaten egg, and coat with breadcrumbs.
Place the coated tenders on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, turning halfway.
While the chicken bakes, prepare the sauce by combining honey, lemon juice, olive oil, and butter in a small saucepan over medium heat.
Stir until the butter melts and the sauce is smooth.
Once the chicken tenders are done, drizzle the honey lemon sauce over them or toss them in the sauce for an extra coating.
Serve warm and enjoy!

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American