Honey-brown sugar baked chicken tenders

Honey-brown sugar baked chicken tenders are a sweet and savoury dish featuring tender chicken coated in a honey-brown sugar glaze, then baked to perfection. This easy recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, delivering a delightful meal the whole family will enjoy.

26 Jan 2026
Cook time 15 min
Prep time 10 min

Ingredients:

4 chicken breasts
1/4 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup honey
1/4 tsp salt
1 cup bread crumbs

Honey-brown sugar baked chicken tenders are a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors that make for a delicious and easy meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, this recipe utilizes simple ingredients to create a dish that the whole family will love. The tender chicken breasts, coated in a luscious mix of honey and brown sugar and then baked to perfection, offer a mouthwatering experience with every bite.

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.

2. Prepare the Chicken:
Cut the chicken breasts into tenders by slicing them into roughly equal-sized strips.

3. Mix the Sweet Coating:
In a small saucepan, combine the brown sugar and honey. Heat the mixture over low heat, stirring constantly until the sugar is completely dissolved. This should take about 3-5 minutes. Once dissolved, remove from heat and allow it to cool slightly.

4. Bread the Chicken:
Place the bread crumbs in a shallow dish or bowl. Sprinkle the salt over the bread crumbs and mix well.

5. Coat the Chicken:
Dip each chicken tender into the honey-brown sugar mixture, making sure it is well-coated. Allow any excess to drip off, but aim for a generous coating so the crumbs can adhere well.

6. Bread the Tenders:
Roll each coated chicken tender in the bread crumbs, pressing gently to ensure the crumbs stick. Ensure each piece is evenly coated.

7. Arrange on the Baking Sheet:
Place the breaded chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they are not touching to allow for even cooking.

8. Bake the Chicken:
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken tenders are golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).

9. Serve:
Remove from the oven and let the chicken tenders cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your honey-brown sugar baked chicken tenders with your favorite dipping sauce or side dishes.

With a beautifully caramelized exterior and juicy, tender chicken inside, these honey-brown sugar baked chicken tenders are sure to become a favorite in your household. Perfect for pairing with a variety of sides, this dish is versatile and always satisfying. Enjoy this quick and easy recipe that brings a touch of sweetness to your mealtime.

Honey-brown sugar baked chicken tenders FAQ:

How long should I bake the chicken tenders?

Bake the chicken tenders in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Can I use a different sweetener instead of honey and brown sugar?

You can substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar, and brown sugar with coconut sugar. However, these substitutions may slightly alter the flavor and texture of the coating.

What is the best way to store leftover chicken tenders?

Store any leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, they can be frozen for up to 2 months; reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.

What size baking pan should I use for this recipe?

A standard baking sheet (about 18 x 13 inches) works well for this recipe. Make sure to arrange the tenders without overlapping to ensure even cooking.

Why are my chicken tenders not crispy?

Ensure that the bread crumbs are pressed firmly onto the chicken and that they are not touching when placed on the baking sheet. Baking them at the recommended temperature and time should help achieve crispiness.

Cooking Tips:

- For even cooking, pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness before starting the recipe.

- Marinate the chicken in the honey and brown sugar mixture for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to fully penetrate the meat.

- Use a wire rack placed on a baking sheet to allow air circulation around the chicken tenders, ensuring they bake evenly and get a nice crispy texture.

- Consider adding some spices like paprika, garlic powder, or cayenne pepper to the bread crumbs for additional flavor.

- For a healthier version, opt for whole wheat bread crumbs and use a smaller amount of honey and brown sugar.

Nutrition Facts

2 Servings
Calories 730kcal
Protein 60g
Carbohydrates 100g
Fiber 2.51g
Sugar 66g
Fat 9g

Honey-brown sugar baked chicken tenders