Craving a quick, flavorful meal? The Apple and Honey-Glazed Chicken Tenders recipe from Mangoes and Palm Trees combines tender chicken with a sweet, tangy glaze of apples and honey, ready in just 30 minutes. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings!
Introduction to Apple and Honey-Glazed Chicken Tenders
The Apple and Honey-Glazed Chicken Tenders recipe is a delightful blend of sweet and savory, featuring tender chicken strips coated in a sticky glaze of apples, honey, and savory spices. Simple yet gourmet, it’s ideal for busy weeknights or entertaining. Explore more in our Chicken Recipes collection.
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
- Rinse and pat dry chicken tenders; place in a bowl.
- 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.
- In a saucepan, combine glaze ingredients (apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, soy sauce, garlic powder, onion powder); boil over medium heat, then simmer 10 minutes until thickened. Cool slightly.
- For stovetop: Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium heat; cook chicken 4-5 minutes per side until 165°F (75°C). Remove chicken, add apples, cook 2 minutes, then add glaze and chicken, coating well for 2 minutes.
- For baking: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C); place chicken on a parchment-lined baking sheet, brush with olive oil and glaze, bake 20 minutes, brush with more glaze, bake 5-10 minutes until 165°F (75°C). Add apples in the last 5 minutes.
- Garnish with parsley, sesame seeds, or chili flakes. Optional: Substitute 1/4 cup glaze with mango puree for a tropical twist.
- Serve with roasted vegetables or rice.
Serving Suggestions
Best Side Dishes
Pair with a crispy chicken salad, roasted carrots, potatoes, or Brussels sprouts. Steamed broccoli, rice pilaf, quinoa, couscous, or mashed sweet potatoes complement the sweet glaze.
Plating Tips
Place chicken tenders in the center of a white plate, arrange sides around them, and garnish with parsley or cilantro. Drizzle extra glaze for appeal, keeping the plate uncrowded for a clean look.
Nutritional Information
Caloric Content
Each serving (2 tenders) contains approximately 250 calories: 150 from chicken, 100 from glaze. Values vary by portion size.
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 |
High in protein for muscle health, with carbs from honey and apples for energy, fiber from apples for digestion, and vitamins/minerals for overall health. Learn more at Healthline.
Tips and Tricks
Ensuring Tender Chicken
Marinate for at least 30 minutes, slice evenly, and cook on medium heat to keep chicken juicy.
Perfecting the Glaze
Use fresh apple juice and quality honey, simmer until thick, and baste frequently for layered flavor.
Variations
Alternative Ingredients
Swap apples for pears or peaches, honey for maple syrup or brown sugar, or add cinnamon, ginger, or balsamic vinegar for new flavors.
Different Cooking Techniques
Grill tenders for 5-7 minutes per side at medium heat, or air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 10 minutes, shaking halfway, for varied textures.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Ingredients Are Needed for Apple and Honey-Glazed Chicken Tenders Recipe?
Chicken tenders, apple juice, honey, soy sauce, garlic, olive oil, and apples.
How Do You Prepare the Glaze for Chicken Tenders?
Simmer apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, soy sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder until thickened.
What Is the Cooking Time for Apple and Honey-Glazed Chicken Tenders?
15-20 minutes for stovetop or baking, ensuring 165°F (75°C) internally.
Can You Marinate Chicken Tenders Overnight?
Yes, overnight marinating enhances flavor; refrigerate covered.
Conclusion
The Apple and Honey-Glazed Chicken Tenders recipe is a perfect blend of sweet and savory, ideal for family dinners or gatherings. Easy to make with a tropical mango glaze option, it’s a crowd-pleaser. Try it today and explore our Hmong Cabbage and Chicken Recipe for more inspiration!
