Go Back

Garlic Butter Chicken Tenders

These Garlic Butter Chicken Tenders are juicy, tender, and quick to prepare, making them perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Southern
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the chicken tenders
  • 1.5 pounds chicken tenders Pat them dry for a golden crust.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt Adjust to taste
  • 0.5 teaspoon black pepper Adjust to taste
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning Or swap with your favorite herbs.
  • 0.25 teaspoon red pepper flakes Optional, adjust for spice level
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour Optional, for a light crust
For the sauce
  • 4 tablespoons butter Add to the skillet after cooking chicken
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced Fresh garlic enhances flavor
  • 0.25 cup chicken broth Can substitute with vegetable broth
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice Freshly squeezed is best
  • 1 teaspoon honey Optional for added sweetness
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped For garnish
  • 0.5 teaspoon dried thyme Can use Italian seasoning as an alternative

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels.
  2. In a bowl, mix the chicken tenders with olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, and optional red pepper flakes. If desired, add flour and toss until well-coated.
Cooking
  1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the chicken tenders in a single layer. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
  2. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
  3. Lower the heat to medium, add butter to the same skillet and let it melt.
  4. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  5. Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice, scraping the browned bits from the skillet for flavor.
  6. If using, stir in honey along with thyme or Italian seasoning, adjusting seasoning with salt and black pepper to taste.
  7. Return the chicken to the skillet, spoon the sauce over it, and simmer for another 2 to 3 minutes.
  8. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

Serve with sides like roasted vegetables, rice pilaf, or crispy potatoes. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat before serving.