Crispy Chicken Tenders with Creamy Honey Mustard Dip Recipe

These chicken tenders are incredibly crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. Paired with a tangy-sweet honey mustard dip, they’re perfect for a quick meal, appetizer, or snack.

Ingredients:

For the Chicken Tenders:

  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • Vegetable oil, for frying (enough to submerge the tenders halfway)

For the Creamy Honey Mustard Dip:

  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
  • 1/4 teaspoon paprika
  • salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:

  • Cut the chicken breasts into strips, about 1-inch thick.
  • In a shallow dish, combine the flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using).
  • In a separate shallow dish, beat the eggs.
  • In a third shallow dish, place the panko breadcrumbs.

2. Bread the Chicken:

  • Dredge each chicken strip in the flour mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated.
  • Dip the floured chicken into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off.
  • Coat the egg-dipped chicken in the panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.  

3. Fry the Chicken:

  • Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or deep fryer over medium-high heat (about 350°F/175°C).
  • Carefully place the breaded chicken tenders into the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry in batches if necessary.
  • Fry for 3-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
  • Remove the cooked chicken tenders from the oil and place them on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

4. Prepare the Honey Mustard Dip:

  • In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, honey, lemon juice, yellow mustard, and paprika.
  • Stir well until all ingredients are thoroughly mixed.
  • Season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Serve:

  • Serve the crispy chicken tenders immediately with the creamy honey mustard dip.

Tips and Variations:

  • Air Fryer Method: For a healthier option, you can air fry the chicken tenders. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Spray the breaded chicken with cooking spray and air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.
  • Spice it up: Add more cayenne pepper, or hot sauce to the flour mixture for spicier tenders.
  • Other dipping sauces: Feel free to serve with other dipping sauces like ranch, BBQ sauce, or your favorite aioli.
  • Oven Baked: Preheat oven to 425F. Place breaded chicken on a parchment lined baking sheet, spray with cooking spray, and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway.

Enjoy your delicious homemade crispy chicken tenders!

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