This recipe delivers a batch of golden brown and incredibly Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders served alongside a classic sweet and tangy Honey Mustard Dip. Chicken tenders, which are strips of tender chicken breast meat, are a popular dish enjoyed by both children and adults. This baked version offers a healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken tenders while still achieving a satisfyingly crispy exterior. The chicken tenders are typically coated in a seasoned breading, often made with breadcrumbs (panko for extra crispiness), flour, and a blend of spices such as paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Sometimes, the chicken is first dipped in a liquid mixture like buttermilk or egg wash to help the breading adhere. Baking the tenders at a high temperature helps to create a crispy crust, especially when combined with a light coating of oil or cooking spray. The resulting chicken is tender and juicy on the inside with a flavorful and crunchy exterior. The accompanying Honey Mustard Dip is a simple yet delicious sauce that perfectly complements the savory chicken. It’s typically made with a combination of mayonnaise, Dijon mustard (for a bit of a kick), honey (for sweetness), and sometimes a touch of lemon juice or vinegar for brightness. The creamy, sweet, and tangy dip enhances the flavor of the crispy chicken tenders, making for a well-rounded and satisfying dish. This baked version is easy to prepare and offers a healthier way to enjoy a classic favorite, perfect for a family meal, a casual snack, or an appetizer for gatherings. The image shows a white rectangular plate filled with numerous golden-brown, crispy chicken tenders, garnished with a sprinkle of green herbs (likely parsley or chives). A small white bowl in the center of the plate contains a smooth, light orange-brown sauce, consistent with honey mustard dip.
The texture of Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders is a delightful contrast between the crunchy, often slightly flaky, breaded exterior and the tender, juicy chicken breast meat inside. The Honey Mustard Dip provides a smooth and creamy counterpoint.
The flavor profile is savory and slightly spiced from the seasoned breading of the chicken, with the mild taste of the chicken breast coming through. The Honey Mustard Dip offers a balance of sweet from the honey and tangy from the Dijon mustard and mayonnaise, creating a complementary flavor that enhances the chicken.
Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders are a versatile dish perfect for a family-friendly meal, a casual snack, or an appetizer for parties. They are a healthier alternative to fried versions and are easy to prepare.
The preparation of Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders involves coating chicken tenderloins in a seasoned breading and then baking them until golden brown and crispy. The Honey Mustard Dip is made by simply combining mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and honey.
Ingredients:
For the Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders:
- 1.5 lbs chicken tenderloins
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (or regular breadcrumbs)
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons milk or buttermilk
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or cooking spray
For the Honey Mustard Dip:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice or apple cider vinegar (optional)
Equipment:
- Shallow dishes or plates (for breading)
- Whisk
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or aluminum foil
- Small bowl (for dip)
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easier cleanup.
- Prepare Breading Station: In one shallow dish, combine the panko breadcrumbs, flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well. In another shallow dish, whisk together the eggs and milk or buttermilk.
- Coat the Chicken Tenders: Dip each chicken tenderloin into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off. Then, dredge the tenderloin in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure it is fully coated.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the coated chicken tenders in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not touching.
- Bake the Chicken: Lightly drizzle or spray the chicken tenders with olive oil or cooking spray. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C) and the breading is golden brown and crispy. Flip the tenders halfway through the baking time to ensure even cooking and browning.
- Prepare the Honey Mustard Dip: While the chicken is baking, prepare the honey mustard dip. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, honey, and lemon juice or apple cider vinegar (if using) until smooth and well combined.
- Serve: Once the chicken tenders are cooked and crispy, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve them hot with the prepared Honey Mustard Dip for dipping. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives, if desired.
Enjoy these delicious and healthier Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders with Honey Mustard Dip!