Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders with Spicy Honey Mustard Dipping Sauce
Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders are a delightful twist on a classic favorite, perfect for dinner, parties, or a satisfying snack. These golden-brown, crunchy tenders are baked, not fried, which makes them a healthier option without sacrificing flavor. Paired with a Spicy Honey Mustard Dipping Sauce, they’re sure to impress your family and friends. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!
Ingredients
For the Chicken Tenders:
- 1 pound chicken breast, cut into strips
- 1 cup buttermilk (or milk with 1 tablespoon lemon juice)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Cooking spray or olive oil for baking
For the Spicy Honey Mustard Dipping Sauce:
- ½ cup Dijon mustard
- ¼ cup honey
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
- In a bowl, combine the buttermilk and chicken strips. Make sure the chicken is fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours. This step ensures tenderness and juiciness.
Step 2: Prepare the Breading
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup.
- In three separate bowls, set up your breading station:
- Bowl 1: Place the all-purpose flour mixed with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika.
- Bowl 2: Beat the eggs until smooth.
- Bowl 3: Add breadcrumbs to this bowl.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
- Remove the chicken from the buttermilk and allow excess to drip off.
- Dredge each piece of chicken in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
- Dip it into the beaten eggs, letting any extra egg drip off.
- Finally, coat the chicken in breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere. Repeat with all strips.
Step 4: Bake the Tenders
- Place the breaded chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray or drizzle with olive oil to enhance crispiness.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Step 5: Make the Spicy Honey Mustard Dipping Sauce
- While the chicken is baking, combine Dijon mustard, honey, apple cider vinegar, and hot sauce in a small bowl. Mix until smooth. Adjust the heat by adding more hot sauce if desired. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- Once the chicken tenders are crispy and golden, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes.
- Serve with the Spicy Honey Mustard Dipping Sauce on the side. Enjoy every crunchy bite!
Cooking Tips
- Ingredient Selection: Use fresh chicken breast for the best results. Organic or free-range chicken often has enhanced flavor and texture.
- Breadcrumb Options: Panko breadcrumbs yield a lighter and crunchier texture. However, regular breadcrumbs work well too.
- Spice It Up: Feel free to add spices like cayenne pepper or chili powder to the flour mixture for an extra kick.
- Oven Temperature: Ensure your oven is fully preheated before baking to achieve maximum crispiness.
Serving Suggestions
Pair these Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders with a side of fresh coleslaw, sweet potato fries, or a simple garden salad for a complete meal. You can also serve them as an appetizer during game day or family gatherings.
Variations and Substitutions
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs and use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour.
- Vegetarian Alternative: Replace chicken strips with sliced zucchini or eggplant. Follow the same breading and baking process for a delicious veggie version.
- Different Dips: Experiment with other sauces such as BBQ sauce, ranch dressing, or garlic aioli for a variety of flavors.
Food Photography Ideas
Capture the golden brown color of your chicken tenders against a rustic wooden board. Use natural light and include dipping sauces in small bowls for a vibrant look. A sprinkle of fresh herbs can add a pop of color.
Conclusion
Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders with Spicy Honey Mustard Dipping Sauce is a must-try recipe that’s simple to prepare and incredibly satisfying. The combination of crunchy tenders and the zesty sauce is a flavor explosion.
Ready to elevate your cooking game? Try this recipe and share your experience! Don’t forget to explore more of our delicious recipes and cooking tips. Happy cooking!
