Get ready to transform your ordinary weeknight dinner into a restaurant-worthy feast with these mouthwatering Orange Chicken Tenders! Imagine perfectly crispy chicken coated in a glossy, sweet-tangy orange sauce that will have everyone at the table begging for seconds. This quick and easy recipe combines the perfect balance of citrusy brightness, savory soy sauce, and honey-sweet glaze that will make your homemade meal feel like a gourmet experience.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Asian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken tenders
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together orange juice, soy sauce, honey, and cornstarch until the mixture is smooth and well combined, ensuring no cornstarch lumps remain.
- Pat chicken tenders dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve better browning and crispy exterior.
- Season chicken tenders evenly with salt and pepper on both sides, using approximately 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat until the oil shimmers and appears slightly rippled.
- Carefully place chicken tenders into the hot skillet, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Cook for 3-4 minutes on the first side until golden brown and crispy.
- Flip the chicken tenders and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes on the second side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) using a meat thermometer.
- Pour the prepared orange sauce over the chicken tenders in the skillet, reducing heat to medium-low and stirring to coat the chicken evenly.
- Simmer the chicken in the sauce for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and glaze the tenders, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
- Remove from heat and let the chicken rest for 2-3 minutes to allow the sauce to further set and flavors to meld.
- Transfer chicken tenders to a serving platter, spooning any remaining sauce from the skillet over the top for extra flavor.
- Garnish with optional chopped green onions or sesame seeds if desired, and serve immediately with steamed rice or your preferred side dish.
Tips
- Pat the chicken tenders completely dry before seasoning to ensure a crispy, golden-brown exterior that locks in maximum flavor.
- Use a meat thermometer to guarantee your chicken is perfectly cooked at 165°F (74°C) - no dry or undercooked chicken here!
- Don't overcrowd the skillet - cook the tenders in batches if necessary to achieve that beautiful crispy sear.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a subtle kick, or some minced garlic for depth.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the sauce to set and the flavors to meld together perfectly.
- Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor, pairing with steamed rice or a light salad to complete your meal.
- If you want to make this dish ahead of time, you can prepare the sauce and season the chicken in advance, keeping them separate until just before cooking.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 280kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 85mg
