Juicy & Flavorful Apple and Honey-Glazed Chicken Tenders A Mangoes and Palm Trees Favorite
Enjoy a quick Apple and Honey-Glazed Chicken Tenders recipe, crafted by Oliver with over 15 years of culinary expertise, featuring a sweet-tangy glaze for family dinners.
Introduction to Apple and Honey-Glazed Chicken Tenders
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.
The Apple and Honey-Glazed Chicken Tenders 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.
Apple and Honey-Glazed Chicken Tenders Recipe
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 for deeper flavor.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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).
- Garnish with optional add-ons like chopped parsley, toasted sesame seeds, or red chili flakes. For a tropical twist, substitute 1/4 cup of glaze with mango puree before coating.
- Serve hot with roasted vegetables, rice, or a side from our Crispy Chicken Salad Recipe.
Watch the Recipe Video
Serving Suggestions
Best Side Dishes
Elevate your Apple and Honey-Glazed Chicken Tenders 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.
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.
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.
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.
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. For more flavorful recipes, check out our Hmong Cabbage and Chicken Recipe or explore healthy options in our Healthy Meal Plans.
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