Crispy baked chicken tenders with honey mustard Recipe

If you’re searching for a meal that’s as fun to eat as it is satisfying to prepare, look no further than crispy baked chicken tenders with honey mustard. There’s something magical about biting into juicy, flavorful chicken encased in a golden, crunchy coating—especially when you can dunk each piece in a sweet and tangy honey mustard sauce. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, picky eaters, or lively gatherings, and it’s guaranteed to transport you straight to comfort food heaven.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of these crispy baked chicken tenders with honey mustard lies in a lineup of everyday ingredients that each serve a delicious purpose. Quality chicken, a crisp breading, and that irresistible honey mustard sauce all come together to create a meal that’s much more than the sum of its parts.

• Chicken tenders: Choose fresh or high-quality chicken tenders for juicy, tender bites every time.
• All-purpose flour: Acts as the first barrier, helping the egg and panko stick perfectly to the chicken.
• Eggs: Their rich texture helps bind everything together for a golden, even crust.
• Panko breadcrumbs: These Japanese-style breadcrumbs are the secret to an irresistibly crunchy exterior.
• Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds depth, a touch of nuttiness, and gorgeous color to your crust.
• Garlic powder: For savory flavor that infuses the coating without overpowering the chicken.
• Paprika: A pinch brings a pop of color and a subtle smoky warmth.
• Salt and black pepper: The classic duo for seasoning every layer.
• Cooking spray or oil: A light spritz ensures maximum crispness in the oven.
• Honey: The key sweetener in your honey mustard, it balances the tang and adds a glossy finish.
• Dijon mustard: Its bold, sharp flavor is essential for an authentically zippy sauce.
• Mayonnaise: Makes the honey mustard thick, creamy, and dippable.
• Lemon juice: A splash brightens the sauce, tying together all the flavors beautifully.

How to Make Crispy baked chicken tenders with honey mustard

Step 1: Prep Your Workspace and Ingredients

Before anything else, preheat your oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment or foil—this step guarantees easy clean-up! Line up three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with a mixture of panko, Parmesan, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Having your assembly line ready speeds up the breading process and ensures you won’t make a mess.

Step 2: Bread the Chicken Tenders

Pat each chicken tender dry with a paper towel, then dredge them one at a time: first coat in flour (shaking off any excess), dip in the egg to completely cover, then press into the panko mixture. Gently press the coating onto each piece for even crispiness, and arrange the breaded tenders on your baking sheet. Give each one a quick spritz with cooking spray or a drizzle of oil—this is the finishing touch that makes the oven do all the “frying.”

Step 3: Bake to Golden Perfection

Slide your baking sheet onto the middle rack and bake the tenders for 16–20 minutes, flipping once halfway through. They’re ready when the crust is deeply golden and the chicken is fully cooked—juicy inside, crispy outside! If you want that extra crunch, broil for an extra minute at the end, keeping an eye so they don’t overbrown.

Step 4: Prepare the Honey Mustard Sauce

While the chicken is baking, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, mayonnaise, and a squeeze of lemon juice in a small bowl. Taste and adjust the balance—more honey for extra sweetness, more lemon for zing. This creamy, dreamy sauce is what takes your crispy baked chicken tenders with honey mustard straight into favorite meal territory!

Step 5: Serve and Savor

Pull the chicken out and let it cool slightly so those crunchy crusts set. Scoop the tenders onto a platter with your honey mustard sauce in the center. Be prepared for these to disappear quickly—one dunk and everyone will be hooked!

How to Serve Crispy baked chicken tenders with honey mustard

Garnishes

Brighten your platter with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives for a burst of green. Lemon wedges add a lovely touch of color and offer guests an extra citrusy option. A bit of fresh cracked pepper or a dusting of smoked paprika over the top can also make your crispy baked chicken tenders with honey mustard visually irresistible.

Side Dishes

Turn this dish into a complete meal by adding fluffy mashed potatoes, buttery corn on the cob, or a crisp garden salad. Sweet potato fries or roasted veggies are perfect for soaking up extra sauce, while a simple coleslaw brings cool crunch as a contrast to the hot, crispy tenders.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your chicken tenders lined up on a rustic wooden board with little bowls of honey mustard for dunking. For parties, skewer the tenders with colorful picks, or slice them onto salads and wraps. However you present crispy baked chicken tenders with honey mustard, you’re guaranteed smiles and empty plates.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’ve managed to save a few tenders (good luck!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh and tasty for up to three days, maintaining most of their crispy charm.

Freezing

Baked chicken tenders freeze exceptionally well. Once cooled, lay them on a tray to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container. This prevents sticking and lets you grab just what you need. They’ll keep well in the freezer for up to two months.

Reheating

To recapture that original crispiness, reheat your tenders in a 400°F oven or in an air fryer for a few minutes until hot and crunchy. Microwaving works in a pinch, but a quick bake is your best bet for reviving that irresistible coating. The honey mustard sauce can be enjoyed cold or gently warmed if desired.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of tenders?

Absolutely! Just slice boneless, skinless chicken breasts into strips about the same size as tenders. They’ll bake up just as juicy and crispy.

Is it possible to make these gluten-free?

Yes, you can easily swap the all-purpose flour and panko for your favorite gluten-free versions. The results will be just as golden and satisfying.

Can I make the honey mustard sauce ahead of time?

Definitely! The honey mustard can be mixed and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. In fact, the flavors often deepen with a little time, making your crispy baked chicken tenders with honey mustard even more delicious.

Can I use a different type of mustard in the sauce?

Of course! While Dijon gives a classic zing, whole grain or spicy brown mustards will add their own unique flavor and texture to your honey mustard sauce.

How do I make my coating extra crispy without frying?

Spritzing the breaded chicken with oil or cooking spray before baking helps. Also, make sure your oven is fully preheated and bake on a wire rack if possible for maximum airflow and crispness.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a meal that ticks every box—crisp, juicy, easy, and endlessly dippable—crispy baked chicken tenders with honey mustard belong at the top of your must-try list. Gather your loved ones, break out your favorite dipping bowls, and let this fun, flavorful dish brighten your table. You’re truly in for a treat!

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