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!