If you’re looking for a dinner recipe that’s quick, family-friendly, and packed with flavor, these Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders are the answer. With a perfect balance of sweet caramelized brown sugar and savory spices, these juicy chicken strips are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Best of all? They’re easy to make in under 30 minutes—perfect for weeknights, meal prep, or even as a party appetizer.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Sweet & savory perfection – the brown sugar glaze creates a caramelized coating that clings to the chicken.
- Quick & easy – ready in 25–30 minutes.
- Versatile – serve as a main dish, in wraps, or as game-day finger food.
- Kid-approved – mild, tender, and flavorful without being overly spicy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s a breakdown of what makes this recipe irresistible:
- 1 ½ lbs chicken tenders (or chicken breast strips) – tender, juicy, and quick to cook.
- ½ cup brown sugar (light or dark) – adds caramelized sweetness.
- 2 tbsp soy sauce – balances sweetness with umami depth.
- 2 tbsp olive oil – helps crisp up the tenders.
- 3 garlic cloves (minced) – adds bold flavor.
- 1 tsp paprika – subtle smokiness.
- ½ tsp black pepper – for a touch of spice.
- ½ tsp salt – enhances all flavors.
Optional for extra kick: red chili flakes, hot sauce, or cayenne pepper.
💡 Substitutions: Use honey or maple syrup instead of brown sugar for a natural sweetener. For gluten-free, swap soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken
Pat chicken tenders dry with paper towels. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika. This step ensures the spices stick well.
2. Make the Brown Sugar Glaze
In a bowl, whisk together brown sugar, soy sauce, olive oil, and garlic until smooth. Set aside.
3. Sear the Chicken
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil and cook chicken tenders in batches (avoid overcrowding). Cook 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (165°F internal temperature).
4. Caramelize with Glaze
Pour the brown sugar glaze into the skillet. Toss chicken tenders until fully coated. Let simmer for 2–3 minutes until the glaze thickens into a sticky caramelized sauce.
5. Serve & Enjoy
Garnish with fresh parsley or sesame seeds. Serve hot with dipping sauce or as part of a full meal.
Serving Suggestions
- Over white rice, fried rice, or noodles for a complete dinner.
- With roasted vegetables or garlic mashed potatoes for comfort food vibes.
- As sliders or wraps with lettuce, tomato, and mayo.
- Paired with dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or spicy sriracha mayo.
Storage & Meal Prep Tips
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Flash-freeze tenders on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag (lasts 2 months).
- Reheating: For best texture, reheat in oven or air fryer instead of microwave.
Variations & Twists
- Spicy Kick: Add hot sauce, cayenne, or red chili flakes.
- Asian-Inspired: Garnish with sesame seeds, green onions, and drizzle of sesame oil.
- Southern-Style: Coat chicken in breadcrumbs, bake, then toss in brown sugar glaze.
- Air Fryer Version: Air fry chicken tenders at 400°F for 10–12 minutes, then coat in glaze.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approx. 4 servings)
- Calories: 310
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fat: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 11g
(Values vary depending on substitutions and portion size.)
Pro Cooking Tips
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet – cook in batches for crispy edges.
- Use chicken tenders or breast strips – thighs can be used but may take longer.
- Caramelization trick – let the glaze simmer undisturbed for a minute to thicken before tossing.
- Brining hack – soak chicken in buttermilk for 30 minutes for extra juicy tenders.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make these in the oven?
Yes! Bake at 400°F for 20 minutes, then toss in glaze for the last 5 minutes.
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead?
Absolutely—just cut into strips and adjust cooking time for doneness.
Q: Can I make this recipe low-carb?
Yes, swap brown sugar with a sugar substitute like monk fruit or erythritol.
Q: How do I keep chicken tenders juicy?
Avoid overcooking and consider a quick buttermilk brine before cooking.
Final Thoughts
These Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders are the ultimate balance of sweet and savory—crispy, juicy, and glazed to perfection. Whether you’re making a quick family dinner, prepping lunches, or serving appetizers, this recipe will never disappoint.
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