Looking for a dish that’s both crowd-pleasing and easy to prepare? Honey Glazed Baked Chicken Tenderloins might just be the answer. This recipe combines tender, juicy chicken with a savory-sweet glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the oven. It’s versatile enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough for guests. Here’s a closer look at how to whip up this delectable dish.
Why This Recipe Works
The secret to the irresistible flavor of these chicken tenderloins lies in the marinade. A combination of soy sauce, honey, garlic, ginger, and thyme adds depth to the chicken. The soy sauce and honey create a balanced sweet-and-salty flavor profile, while fresh garlic and ginger provide aromatic warmth. Dried thyme rounds out the marinade with earthy notes, making every bite a delight.
This marinade also allows the honey to caramelize in the oven, creating that sticky, golden-brown glaze that’s both visually appealing and delicious. Plus, by reserving and simmering some marinade, you create a thick glaze that takes the flavor to the next level.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Chicken Tenderloins: Tender, lean, and quick to cook, these are the perfect cut for this recipe.
- Olive Oil: Helps keep the chicken juicy and adds a subtle richness.
- Soy Sauce: Adds saltiness and umami, balancing the sweetness of the honey.
- Honey: The star ingredient that brings sweetness and helps with caramelization.
- Garlic & Ginger: Fresh aromatics that elevate the dish with warmth and depth.
- Dried Thyme: A hint of earthy, herbal flavor that pairs well with the other ingredients.
Step-by-Step Recipe
1. Marinate the Chicken
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of olive oil, ½ cup soy sauce, ½ cup honey, 4 cloves minced garlic, 1 teaspoon grated ginger, and 1 teaspoon dried thyme. This blend will not only flavor the chicken but also provide a sticky, glossy coating as it bakes. Toss the chicken tenderloins in this marinade and let them soak for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to seep in.
2. Arrange and Bake
After marinating, place the chicken tenderloins on a baking sheet. The olive oil will help prevent sticking, and the honey will start to caramelize, creating a beautiful golden-brown color. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and has that initial hint of caramelization.
3. Prepare the Glaze
While the chicken is baking, pour the reserved marinade into a saucepan and simmer it over medium heat for about 5–7 minutes. This thickens it into a glaze that’s perfect for brushing over the tenderloins. Be cautious here—since the marinade was in contact with raw chicken, it’s essential to cook it thoroughly before using it as a glaze.
4. Brush and Finish
Once the chicken is nearly done, remove it from the oven and brush generously with the thickened glaze. Return the tray to the oven for another 5 minutes to let the glaze set. This final touch gives the chicken a shiny, caramelized finish that’s impossible to resist.
5. Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle chopped parsley on top before serving to add a pop of color and a touch of freshness. Pair these tenderloins with your favorite side dishes—think roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a light green salad—for a complete, well-rounded meal.
Honey Glazed Baked Chicken Tenderloins
Description
Indulge in the sweet and savory flavors of these Honey Glazed Baked Chicken Tenderloins. A perfect blend of herbs and honey gives this dish a delightful caramelization, making it a crowd-pleaser for any gathering. Serve it up with your favorite side dishes for a complete, delectable meal.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
3 pounds chicken tenderloins
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 cup soy sauce
1/2 cup honey
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon grated ginger
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a bowl, mix olive oil, soy sauce, honey, garlic, ginger, and thyme together.
Marinate the chicken tenderloins in the mixture for at least 30 minutes.
Arrange the marinated chicken on a baking sheet.
Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked and starts to caramelize.
Meanwhile, simmer the reserved marinade for 5-7 minutes to create a thick glaze.
Remove the chicken from the oven and brush generously with the glaze.
Return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes to let the glaze set.
Garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh finish.
Serve hot and enjoy the rich flavors!