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Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders

Juicy chicken tenderloins get a glossy honey garlic glaze with a hint of soy and a touch of cornstarch for a perfect, fry-crisp outside and tender inside. This dish comes together in minutes, making it an ideal weeknight staple that tastes like a hug on a plate.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Servings 4

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb chicken tenders
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
  • 1 tsp fresh grated ginger
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/8 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
  • chopped green onions for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

  • Pat the chicken tenders dry and season lightly with salt and pepper. This helps the coating stick and the meat stay juicy.
  • In a large bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, rice vinegar, and grated ginger until the glaze is smooth.
  • Add the chicken tenders to the bowl and toss to coat evenly. Let them marinate for 5 minutes while you heat the pan.
  • Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil. Once the oil shimmers, remove the chicken from the glaze (reserve the glaze) and sear in batches for 2–3 minutes per side until golden.
  • Return all chicken to the pan. Stir the reserved glaze with the cornstarch until smooth, then pour into the skillet. Reduce heat to medium and simmer for 2–3 minutes, until the sauce thickens and coats the chicken nicely.
  • Sprinkle with sesame seeds and green onions if using. Serve warm over steamed rice, quinoa, or a simple side of veggies.