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Crispy Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders Recipe

4.9 from 136 reviews

This Chicken Tenders Recipe features tender and juicy chicken mini fillets cooked to perfection in a buttery garlic and paprika seasoning. Sautéed in a skillet with a splash of water to deglaze and finish with fresh parsley, this dish is a quick and flavorful option for a delicious protein-packed meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons butter (divided)
  • 1 pound (450g) chicken tenderloins (chicken mini fillets)
  • 2 teaspoons paprika
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 4 cloves garlic (minced or crushed)
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the pan: Add the olive oil and melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium heat, ensuring the pan is hot and ready for cooking.
  2. Season and cook chicken: Place the chicken tenders in the pan and season evenly with paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook the chicken for about 3 minutes on each side, seasoning each side as it cooks to build flavor.
  3. Add garlic and butter: Make space in the pan, then add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter and the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until the garlic releases its fragrance without burning.
  4. Include Italian seasoning: Sprinkle the Italian seasoning over the chicken and garlic mixture and cook for an additional minute to allow the herbs to infuse.
  5. Deglaze the pan: Pour 2 tablespoons of water into the pan to loosen the flavorful browned bits stuck to the bottom. Use a spatula to scrape these bits to incorporate their flavor into the sauce.
  6. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle the cooked chicken with chopped fresh parsley or basil leaves for a fresh aromatic finish. Serve warm immediately for best flavor and texture.

Notes

  • Make sure the skillet is sufficiently heated before adding the chicken to ensure even browning.
  • Adjust the paprika and seasoning to taste if you prefer it spicier or milder.
  • Use fresh garlic for the best aromatic flavor; avoid overcooking garlic to prevent bitterness.
  • Deglazing with water adds moisture and makes a simple but flavorful pan sauce.
  • This recipe pairs well with steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh green salad.

Keywords: chicken tenders, garlic chicken, paprika chicken, skillet chicken, quick chicken recipe, easy chicken dinner