Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders with Honey Mustard Sauce

If you’re searching for the perfect balance of crunch and flavor, look no further than these Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders with Honey Mustard Sauce. This recipe not only satisfies your cravings but also makes for a healthier alternative to traditional frying. With a golden, crispy exterior and juicy chicken inside, these tenders will become a household favorite!

Ingredients

For the Chicken Tenders:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
• 1 cup buttermilk (or regular milk mixed with 1 tablespoon vinegar)
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko for extra crunch)
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Cooking spray (or olive oil for drizzling)

For the Honey Mustard Sauce:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. In a bowl, combine the buttermilk and chicken strips. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight in the refrigerator). This step tenderizes the chicken and enhances flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Breading Station

2. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat for easy cleanup.
3. In one shallow dish, place the flour mixed with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
4. In a second dish, whisk the egg until smooth.
5. In a third dish, spread out the breadcrumbs.

Step 3: Bread the Chicken

6. Remove the chicken from the buttermilk, letting the excess liquid drip off.
7. Dredge each chicken strip in the flour mixture, followed by the egg, and finally coat it with breadcrumbs. Make sure to press the breadcrumbs onto the chicken to ensure a crispy coating.

Step 4: Bake the Chicken

8. Place the breaded chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray or drizzle with olive oil to encourage browning.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C).

Step 5: Make the Honey Mustard Sauce

10. While the chicken is baking, prepare the honey mustard sauce. In a bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, honey, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 6: Serve

11. Once the chicken is ready, serve it hot alongside the honey mustard sauce for dipping. This combination of crispy chicken and zesty sauce will tantalize your taste buds!

Cooking Tips

• Ingredient Selection: Choose fresh, high-quality chicken for the best flavor. If you can, opt for organic or free-range chicken.
• Panko Breadcrumbs: For maximum crunch, use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs. They create a lighter and crispier texture.
• Spice it Up: Feel free to experiment with different spices or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the flour mixture for a spicy kick.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the chicken tenders ahead of time and freeze them before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking from frozen.

Serving Suggestions

These Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders pair wonderfully with a side of fresh salad, sweet potato fries, or even a warm quinoa bowl. For an extra touch, sprinkle some chopped parsley or chives over the chicken before serving for a burst of color.

Variations and Substitutions

• Gluten-Free: Substitute regular flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives.
• Dairy-Free: Use almond milk or coconut milk in place of buttermilk and consider a dairy-free mayonnaise for the sauce.
• Baked Veggies: Roast some seasonal vegetables alongside the chicken for a complete meal.

This recipe is not only delicious but also versatile, allowing for personal twists and substitutions. Remember to take a moment to appreciate the delightful crunch as you bite into these tenders, paired with the tangy sweetness of the honey mustard sauce.

For more delightful recipes and cooking tips, consider exploring our collection of articles on healthy meals, quick snacks, and gourmet sauces. Happy cooking!

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