Crunchy Baked Chicken Tenders with Spicy Honey Mustard Dipping Sauce

Indulge your taste buds with these delectable Crunchy Baked Chicken Tenders paired with a zesty Spicy Honey Mustard Dipping Sauce. Ideal for a family dinner, game day snacking, or as a crowd-pleasing appetizer, this recipe combines crispy textures with a burst of flavor that will have everyone coming back for more!

Ingredients

For the Crunchy Baked Chicken Tenders

• 1 pound chicken breast tenders
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Cooking spray or olive oil for drizzling

For the Spicy Honey Mustard Dipping Sauce

• 1/2 cup Dijon mustard
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1 tablespoon hot sauce (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Preparing the Chicken Tenders

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken tenders and ensure they are well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor.

2. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly spray it with cooking spray or drizzle with olive oil to prevent sticking.

3. Prepare the Coating: In a shallow dish, mix panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, dried oregano, and a pinch of salt. This crunchy mixture will give your tenders an irresistible texture.

4. Coat the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess buttermilk to drip off. Dredge each tender in the panko mixture, pressing gently to ensure an even coating. Place the coated tenders on the prepared baking sheet.

5. Bake the Chicken Tenders: Lightly spray the tops of the chicken tenders with cooking spray or drizzle with a little olive oil. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through, flipping halfway for even crispiness.

Making the Spicy Honey Mustard Dipping Sauce

1. Combine Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, honey, hot sauce, and apple cider vinegar. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

2. Adjust the Heat: Feel free to adjust the amount of hot sauce based on your preferred spice level. For a milder sauce, reduce the hot sauce, and for more heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper.

3. Serve: Transfer the sauce to a serving bowl and enjoy it alongside the warm, crunchy chicken tenders.

Cooking Tips

• Ingredient Selection: Choose fresh, high-quality chicken tenders for the best flavor and tenderness. If you can’t find tenders, chicken breasts can be cut into strips.
• Panko Breadcrumbs: These are essential for achieving that extra crunch. If you want a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free panko or use crushed cornflakes.
• Baking Time: Keep an eye on the chicken tenders towards the end of the baking time to prevent overcooking. They should be golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
• Make Ahead: You can marinate the chicken the night before for convenience, making this dish a great option for busy days.

Serving Suggestions

Pair these Crunchy Baked Chicken Tenders with a variety of sides for a complete meal. Consider serving with:

• Fresh vegetable sticks (carrots, celery, and bell peppers)
• A crisp garden salad with a light vinaigrette
• Sweet potato fries or regular fries for that classic comfort food feel

For a fun twist, try serving the tenders in a wrap with lettuce and the spicy honey mustard sauce drizzled on top.

Variations and Substitutions

• Baked vs. Fried: While this recipe focuses on baking for a healthier option, you can fry the tenders if you prefer that classic taste. Just heat oil in a skillet and fry until golden brown.
• Herb Variations: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices in the breadcrumb mixture, such as thyme, basil, or Italian seasoning.
• Dipping Sauce Variations: Mix in some mayonnaise for a creamier sauce or switch up the mustard by using whole grain mustard for a different flavor profile.

Final Thoughts

Crunchy Baked Chicken Tenders with Spicy Honey Mustard Dipping Sauce are not just a meal; they’re an experience that brings comfort and joy. The crispy, golden exterior gives way to juicy, tender chicken, while the spicy honey mustard sauce adds the perfect finishing touch.

This recipe is perfect for gatherings, casual dinners, or simply treating yourself. Don’t be afraid to get creative in the kitchen and tweak the ingredients to make this dish your own!

As you prepare these delicious tenders, consider sharing your culinary creations on social media with friends and family. They’ll appreciate your cooking prowess, and you may inspire them to try this recipe as well!

For more culinary inspiration and tips, check out Baking Basics and Healthy Cooking Techniques. Happy cooking!