Crispy Chicken Tenders with Tangy Honey Mustard Sauce

These Crispy Chicken Tenders are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! Perfectly seasoned and coated for maximum crunch, they pair beautifully with a homemade tangy honey mustard sauce that’s sweet, savory, and just the right amount of zesty. Whether served as a snack, appetizer, or main dish, these chicken tenders will disappear from the plate in no time!

Ingredients:

For the Chicken Tenders:

  • 1 lb (450 g) chicken tenders or boneless chicken breasts (sliced into strips)
  • 1 cup (125 g) all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup (100 g) panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 cup (100 g) seasoned breadcrumbs
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup (120 ml) milk (optional, for egg wash)
  • Cooking oil (for frying or spray for baking)

For the Tangy Honey Mustard Sauce:

  • ¼ cup (60 ml) Dijon mustard
  • ¼ cup (60 ml) honey
  • 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for added depth)

Instructions:

Prepare the Chicken:

  1. Set up a breading station: In three separate bowls, place (1) flour, (2) beaten eggs (or egg wash with milk), and (3) a mixture of panko, seasoned breadcrumbs, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
  2. Pat the chicken tenders dry with a paper towel.

Bread the Chicken:

  1. Dredge each chicken tender in the flour, ensuring an even coat. Shake off any excess.
  2. Dip the floured tender into the beaten eggs, coating it completely.
  3. Finally, press the tender into the breadcrumb mixture, making sure it’s fully coated. Set aside on a plate.

Cook the Chicken:

For Frying:
6. Heat about 1 inch of oil in a deep skillet over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
7. Fry the tenders in batches for 3–4 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C).
8. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

For Baking (Healthier Option):
6. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease it.
7. Arrange the tenders in a single layer, lightly spray with cooking oil, and bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.

Make the Sauce:

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard, honey, mayonnaise, lemon juice, and smoked paprika until smooth. Adjust sweetness or tanginess to taste.

Serve:

  1. Serve the crispy chicken tenders warm with the dipping sauce on the side. Enjoy!

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