Name: Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders with Honey Mustard Dip
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup panko breadcrumbs; 1/2 cup honey; 1/4 cup Dijon mustard; 2 large eggs; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste

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There’s something magical about the aroma of freshly baked chicken tenders wafting through your kitchen. Picture biting into tender, succulent pieces coated in a golden crust while dipping them into a sweet and tangy honey mustard sauce that dances on your taste buds. It’s not just food; it’s an experience that makes even the grumpiest cat smile—or at least stop scratching the couch.

This recipe for baked chicken tenders with honey mustard dip holds a special place in my heart. I remember the first time I made these goodies for my family. The kids squealed with delight as they devoured them, leaving nothing but crumbs and happy faces behind. Perfect for game nights or cozy dinners, these tenders promise to steal the show every time.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

These baked chicken tenders are not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor and nutrition
Their irresistible crunch and versatility make them perfect for any meal or snack
Plus, the honey mustard dip adds a delightful twist that everyone will adore!

One memorable evening involved serving these tasty tenders at my best friend’s birthday party. Everyone asked for seconds—and thirds!

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These add an extra crunch; they’re much lighter than regular breadcrumbs and make a difference in texture.
Honey: A natural sweetener that balances out the tanginess of the mustard perfectly; choose pure honey for best results.
Dijon Mustard: Using Dijon gives a nice kick; it’s smooth and creamy—perfectly complements the sweetness of honey.
Eggs: They act as a binder; use large eggs for better adhesion of breadcrumbs to chicken.
Olive Oil: A drizzle helps achieve that beautiful golden color while keeping the tenders moist.
Garlic Powder: Adds depth of flavor without overpowering; it’s a must-have in savory dishes like this one!
Salt & Pepper: Essential seasoning to enhance all other flavors in the dish; don’t skip these!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare your baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper—this helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier.

Prepare Your Chicken Tenders: Slice your boneless chicken breasts into strips about one inch wide. This size ensures an even cook while allowing them to stay juicy on the inside.

Create Your Breading Station: Set up three shallow dishes—one with beaten eggs seasoned with salt and pepper, another filled with panko breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, and finally leave one empty for easy access.

Dip & Coat Each Tender: Dipping each piece first into the egg mixture then coating it thoroughly in panko breadcrumbs is essential! Make sure they are well-covered for maximum crunchiness.

Arrange & Drizzle With Olive Oil: Place your breaded tenders on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they aren’t touching each other. Drizzle lightly with olive oil to promote browning—trust me; it’s worth it!

Bake Until Golden Brown: Bake in your preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. Keeping an eye on them ensures you don’t end up with dried-out nuggets!

Enjoying homemade baked chicken tenders has never been easier! The combination of tender meat and crispy coating paired with sweet honey mustard dip is simply divine!

You Must Know

The secret to crispy Baked Chicken Tenders with Honey Mustard Dip lies in the breading technique
Ensure your chicken is dry before coating, and don’t skimp on the seasoning
This dish is perfect for a family dinner or game night, guaranteed to please everyone!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To achieve the crispiest Baked Chicken Tenders, bake them on a wire rack over a baking sheet for even cooking. This allows hot air to circulate, creating that golden crust we all crave.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out breadcrumbs for crushed cornflakes or panko for extra crunch. You can also experiment with spices like smoked paprika or garlic powder for added flavor.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes to regain crispiness.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For perfectly juicy Baked Chicken Tenders, marinate them in buttermilk overnight
This not only adds flavor but also tenderizes the meat beautifully
Bake until golden brown for best results, and serve immediately for that fresh-out-of-the-oven experience

I once served these Baked Chicken Tenders at a family gathering, and you should have seen my cousin’s face when he took his first bite. The crispy exterior and tender inside had him declaring it “the best chicken ever!”

FAQs

FAQ

How long do I need to bake the chicken tenders?

Bake the chicken tenders for 20-25 minutes at 400°F (200°C) until golden brown.

Can I use frozen chicken tenders?

Yes, just increase the baking time if using frozen chicken tenders.

What’s a good alternative dip besides honey mustard?

Try barbecue sauce or ranch dressing as delicious alternatives to honey mustard dip.