30-Minute Honey Garlic Butter Chicken Tenders
- Prep
- 15 min
- Cook
- 8 min
- Level
- medium
- Cuisine
- American
Tender chicken strips marinated in a sweet and savory blend of honey, garlic, and clarified butter, then pan-seared to golden perfection. The apple cider vinegar adds a subtle tang that balances the sweetness while the fresh garlic infuses each bite with aromatic flavor. These juicy tenders cook quickly in a single skillet, making them perfect for busy weeknight dinners or when you need a crowd-pleasing protein that's both simple and satisfying. The marinade doubles as a glaze, creating a beautiful caramelized exterior.
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Method
8 steps- 1
Whisk melted butter, garlic, vinegar and honey in a medium glass bowl
- 2
Add chicken tenders and sprinkle with salt and pepper
- 3
Toss until all tenders are nicely coated
- 4
Allow to marinate for 5-10 minutes
- 5
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat
- 6
Add chicken tenders in a single layer and cook until golden brown on both sides, about 8 minutes total
- 7
Cook in two batches if needed to avoid overcrowding
- 8
Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley
Tips
Cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which prevents proper browning and creates a golden exterior
Let the chicken marinate for the full 10 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat
Use a meat thermometer to ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F for food safety
Good to Know
Refrigerate cooked tenders for up to 3 days in airtight container
Can marinate chicken up to 2 hours in advance for deeper flavor
Best served immediately while hot and crispy
Common Mistakes
Don't overcrowd the pan to avoid steaming instead of browning
Don't skip the marinating time or flavors won't develop properly
Substitutions
FAQ
Can I use regular butter instead of clarified butter?
Yes, but watch carefully as regular butter browns faster than clarified butter or ghee. The milk solids may brown before the chicken is done.
How long will these keep in the refrigerator?
Cooked chicken tenders will stay fresh for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Can I freeze these after cooking?
Yes, freeze cooked tenders for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in refrigerator and reheat in oven at 350°F until warmed through.