Crunchy Chicken Tenders with Honey Mustard Dipping Sauce Recipe

There’s something undeniably comforting about a plate of crunchy chicken tenders. Pair that with a creamy honey mustard dipping sauce, and you have a dish that’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or a fun gathering with friends. In this recipe, we will dive into the delicious world of crunchy chicken tenders with honey mustard dipping sauce, taking you step-by-step to create a mouthwatering experience that your taste buds will thank you for!

Ingredients

For the Crunchy Chicken Tenders

• 1 pound chicken breast tenders
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko for extra crunch)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
• Vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Honey Mustard Dipping Sauce

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• ¼ cup honey
• ¼ cup Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Preparing the Chicken Tenders

1. Preheat the Oil: In a large skillet, pour enough vegetable oil to cover the bottom (about ½ inch deep) and heat it over medium-high heat. You can test if the oil is ready by dropping a breadcrumb in; if it sizzles, it’s hot enough.

2. Set Up the Breading Station: Prepare three shallow bowls. In the first bowl, add the flour mixed with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. In the second bowl, whisk the eggs until smooth. In the third bowl, place the breadcrumbs.

3. Coat the Chicken: Take each chicken tender, first dip it into the seasoned flour, making sure it’s well coated. Shake off any excess flour. Next, dip the tender into the egg mixture, allowing any extra to drip off. Finally, coat it with the breadcrumbs, pressing lightly to ensure they stick. Repeat for all tenders.

4. Fry the Chicken: Carefully place the coated chicken tenders into the hot oil, cooking in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding. Fry for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through. Use a thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

5. Drain and Serve: Once cooked, transfer the chicken tenders to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve hot with the honey mustard dipping sauce.

Making the Honey Mustard Dipping Sauce

1. In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, honey, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar.
2. Whisk together until smooth and creamy.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust sweetness or tanginess by adding more honey or mustard as desired.

Cooking Tips

• Ingredient Selection: For the best flavor, use fresh chicken tenders and high-quality mayonnaise. Panko breadcrumbs give an extra crunch, but regular breadcrumbs work just as well.
• Frying Temperature: Maintaining the right oil temperature is key. If the oil is too hot, the outside will burn while the inside remains raw. Too low, and the tenders will absorb too much oil and become greasy.
• Baking Option: If you prefer a healthier option, bake the chicken tenders. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the breaded tenders on a lined baking sheet, spray with cooking spray, and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Serving Suggestions

These crunchy chicken tenders are incredibly versatile. Serve them with:

• Fresh vegetable sticks (carrots, celery, bell peppers) for crunch.
• A side salad for a complete meal.
• Sweet potato fries or classic French fries for a hearty pairing.

Variations

• Spicy Chicken Tenders: Add a teaspoon of hot sauce to your egg mixture for a spicy kick.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour and use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
• Herbed Chicken Tenders: Add dried herbs like thyme or oregano to the breadcrumb mixture for an aromatic twist.

Food Photography Ideas

Capture the golden crunch of the chicken tenders by placing them on a rustic wooden platter with a small bowl of honey mustard in the center. Add colorful vegetable sticks around the platter for a vibrant pop. Natural lighting works best, highlighting the textures and colors of your dish.

Further Reading

To enhance your culinary skills, check out these related articles:

• How to Fry Chicken Perfectly Every Time
• The Ultimate Guide to Homemade Sauces
• Understanding Different Types of Breadcrumbs

Creating crunchy chicken tenders with honey mustard dipping sauce is not just a delightful cooking experience—it’s a way to bring joy to your dining table. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and enjoy the process of making this delectable dish. Don’t forget to share your creations on social media and tag us to inspire others!

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