Forget greasy, fried chicken tenders! This slow cooker recipe delivers juicy, fall-off-the-bone tender chicken with a sweet and smoky honey BBQ glaze that's irresistible. Perfect for a weeknight meal or a crowd-pleasing party appetizer, this recipe is guaranteed to become a family favorite.
What You'll Need:
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken tenders
- 1 cup your favorite BBQ sauce (I recommend a smoky variety)
- ½ cup honey
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Equipment:
- 6-quart slow cooker or larger
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk or fork
Instructions:
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Combine the Sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together the BBQ sauce, honey, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and black pepper. Make sure everything is well combined.
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Add Chicken to Slow Cooker: Place the chicken tenders in the bottom of your slow cooker.
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Pour Sauce Over Chicken: Pour the honey BBQ sauce evenly over the chicken tenders, ensuring they are all coated.
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Slow Cook: Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and easily shreds with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
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Serve: Serve the chicken tenders as is, or shred them with two forks for a more pulled-chicken style. Enjoy them on their own, over rice, in a sandwich, or with your favorite sides.
Tips and Variations:
- For extra flavor: Marinate the chicken in the sauce for 30 minutes to an hour before slow cooking.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the sauce for a little kick.
- Make it thicker: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can simmer it on the stovetop for a few minutes after the chicken is cooked.
- Add vegetables: Toss in some chopped onions, bell peppers, or carrots during the last hour of cooking for a complete meal.
- Frozen Chicken: You can use frozen chicken tenders, but you'll need to increase the cooking time by 1-2 hours on low, or 1 hour on high.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use different types of BBQ sauce?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite BBQ sauce. Sweet, smoky, spicy – it's all up to your preference.
How do I know if the chicken is cooked through?
The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check. The chicken should also be easily shredded with a fork.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the sauce and chicken ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. Combine them in the slow cooker the morning of or whenever you're ready to cook.
Can I freeze leftover chicken?
Yes, leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months.
What are some good side dishes to serve with honey BBQ chicken tenders?
This dish pairs well with many sides, including coleslaw, potato salad, macaroni and cheese, corn on the cob, or mashed potatoes.
This slow cooker honey BBQ chicken tender recipe is a simple yet flavorful way to enjoy this classic dish. The ease of preparation and delicious results make it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or special occasions. Enjoy!
