Apple and Honey-Glazed Chicken Tenders Recipe

Craving a quick, flavorful meal? The Apple and Honey-Glazed Chicken Tenders recipe from Mangoes and Palm Trees combines juicy chicken with a sweet, tangy glaze of apples and honey, ready in just 30 minutes. Perfect for family dinners, casual gatherings, or a cozy weeknight meal, this dish delivers a delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors.

Introduction to Apple and Honey-Glazed Chicken Tenders

The Apple and Honey-Glazed Chicken Tenders recipe is a crowd-pleasing blend of tender chicken strips coated in a sticky, flavorful glaze made from fresh apples, honey, and savory spices. This quick chicken dinner is simple enough for beginners yet gourmet enough to impress guests. Its versatility makes it ideal for busy weeknights or entertaining friends. For more delicious ideas, explore our Chicken Recipes collection or try pairing it with a refreshing tea.

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Apple and Honey-Glazed Chicken Tenders Recipe

Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus 2 hours marinating)

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes (excluding marinating)

Serves: 4

Marinade Ingredients

Quantity	Ingredient	Preparation
1/2 cup	Apple juice	-
1/4 cup	Honey	-
2 tbsp	Soy sauce	Low-sodium
1 tsp	Garlic powder	-
1 tsp	Onion powder	-
1/2 tsp	Salt	-
1/4 tsp	Black pepper	-

Glaze Ingredients

Quantity	Ingredient	Preparation
1/2 cup	Apple cider vinegar	-
1/4 cup	Honey	-
1 tbsp	Dijon mustard	-
1 tbsp	Soy sauce	Low-sodium
1/2 tsp	Garlic powder	-
1/2 tsp	Onion powder	-

Main Ingredients

Quantity	Ingredient	Preparation
1 lb	Chicken tenders	Fresh or thawed
2	Apples	Peeled, thinly sliced
1 tbsp	Olive oil	-
To taste	Salt	-
To taste	Black pepper	-

Optional Add-ons

Quantity	Ingredient	Preparation
1 tsp	Ginger	Freshly grated
1/2 tsp	Red chili flakes	-
2 tbsp	Fresh parsley or cilantro	Chopped
1 tbsp	Sesame seeds	Toasted
1 tbsp	Lemon juice	-
1/4 cup	Mango puree	Tropical option

Instructions

1. Rinse and pat dry chicken tenders; place in a bowl.
2. Whisk marinade ingredients (apple juice, honey, soy sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper); pour over chicken, cover, and marinate in fridge for 2 hours or overnight for deeper flavor.
3. In a saucepan, combine glaze ingredients (apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, soy sauce, garlic powder, onion powder); bring to a boil over medium heat, then simmer for 10 minutes until thickened. Set aside to cool slightly.
4. Stovetop Method: Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium heat; cook chicken tenders 4-5 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Remove chicken, add sliced apples to the skillet, cook for 2 minutes, then return chicken and pour in glaze, coating well for 2 minutes.
5. Baking Method: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C); place chicken tenders on a parchment-lined baking sheet, brush with olive oil and half the glaze, and bake for 20 minutes. Brush with remaining glaze, add sliced apples to the sheet, and bake 5-10 minutes until 165°F (75°C).
6. Garnish with optional add-ons like chopped parsley, toasted sesame seeds, or red chili flakes for a kick. For a tropical twist, substitute 1/4 cup of glaze with mango puree before coating.
7. Serve hot with roasted vegetables, rice, or a side from our Crispy Chicken Salad Recipe.

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Serving Suggestions

Best Side Dishes

Elevate your apple and honey-glazed chicken tenders recipe with complementary sides. Pair with a refreshing Crispy Chicken Salad, roasted carrots, potatoes, or Brussels sprouts for a hearty meal. Steamed broccoli, rice pilaf, quinoa, couscous, or mashed sweet potatoes enhance the sweet-savory glaze. For a drink pairing, try a soothing coffee.

Plating Tips

Create an inviting presentation by placing chicken tenders in the center of a white plate, arranging sides like roasted vegetables or rice around them. Garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro for a pop of color. Drizzle a small amount of extra glaze over the tenders for visual appeal, keeping the plate uncluttered for a clean, elegant look.

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Nutritional Information

Caloric Content

Each serving (2 tenders) of this chicken tenders recipe contains approximately 250 calories: 150 from chicken, 100 from the apple-honey glaze. Caloric values may vary based on portion size or optional add-ons like mango puree.

Key Nutrients

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Protein	25g
Carbohydrates	20g
Fat	8g
Fiber	2g
Vitamin C	10% of Daily Value
Iron	6% of Daily Value

This dish is high in protein for muscle health, with carbohydrates from honey and apples providing energy. The fiber from apples aids digestion, while vitamins and minerals contribute to overall wellness. Learn more about the benefits of apples at Healthline.

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Tips and Tricks

Ensuring Tender Chicken

For juicy chicken tenders, marinate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for best results), slice uniformly for even cooking, and use medium heat to prevent drying out. Check the internal temperature (165°F/75°C) with a meat thermometer for perfect doneness.

Perfecting the Glaze

Use fresh apple juice and high-quality honey for a vibrant glaze. Simmer until the glaze thickens to a syrupy consistency, and baste the chicken frequently during cooking to layer the sweet-savory flavors. Add a splash of lemon juice for extra brightness if desired.

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Variations

Alternative Ingredients

Customize your honey-glazed chicken by swapping apples for pears or peaches for a different fruit profile. Replace honey with maple syrup or brown sugar for a unique sweetness, or add spices like cinnamon, grated ginger, or a splash of balsamic vinegar to the glaze for depth.

Different Cooking Techniques

For a smoky flavor, grill tenders over medium heat for 5-7 minutes per side, brushing with glaze. Alternatively, air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway and coating with glaze afterward. These methods offer varied textures while keeping the chicken juicy. Explore more cooking styles in our Recipes collection.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What Ingredients Are Needed for Apple and Honey-Glazed Chicken Tenders Recipe?

Key ingredients include chicken tenders, apple juice, honey, soy sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, apples, and olive oil, with optional add-ons like mango puree or sesame seeds.

How Do You Prepare the Glaze for Chicken Tenders?

Simmer apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, soy sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder in a saucepan for 10 minutes until thickened, then cool slightly before using.

What Is the Cooking Time for Apple and Honey-Glazed Chicken Tenders?

Cook for 15-20 minutes via stovetop or baking, ensuring an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.

Can You Marinate Chicken Tenders Overnight?

Yes, marinating overnight in the refrigerator enhances flavor and tenderness; keep covered to prevent contamination.

Can This Recipe Be Made Gluten-Free?

Yes, use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari to make the recipe gluten-free, as seen in our Gluten-Free Meal Plans.

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Conclusion

The Apple and Honey-Glazed Chicken Tenders recipe delivers a perfect sweet-savory balance, making it an ideal choice for quick family dinners or casual gatherings. With a tropical mango glaze option and versatile cooking methods, this dish is both easy and impressive. Try it today and share your twist on X with #MangoesPalmTrees! For more flavorful recipes, check out our Hmong Cabbage and Chicken Recipe or explore healthy options in our Healthy Meal Plans.