Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders with Honey Mustard Dip

Recipe By:
Emily Harrison
Updated:

The aroma of crispy baked chicken tenders wafting through the kitchen is enough to make anyone weak in the knees. Pair those golden nuggets of joy with a sweet and tangy honey mustard dip, and you’ve got a home run that could turn any weekday dinner into a five-star restaurant experience—minus the fancy napkin folding.

I remember the first time I whipped up this dish; it was during a particularly chaotic week filled with work deadlines and school projects. My kids were convinced that the only way to truly celebrate the weekend was to have something finger-licking good. Enter my crispy baked chicken tenders with honey mustard dip—a crowd-pleaser that even my pickiest eater couldn’t resist!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • These baked chicken tenders are not only easy to prepare but also incredibly flavorful
  • The perfect balance of crunch and tenderness makes them irresistible
  • Plus, the honey mustard dip adds just the right touch of sweetness and tanginess for an unforgettable experience
  • Great for busy weeknights or casual gatherings!

My kids always rave about these tenders; they think I’m a culinary wizard when I serve them on game night.

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

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

  • Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 breasts for a hearty serving size that will satisfy even the hungriest eaters.
  • Panko Breadcrumbs: These Japanese-style breadcrumbs give an extra crunch that regular breadcrumbs can’t match.
  • Eggs: You’ll need 2 eggs for binding; fresh eggs work best for achieving that golden color.
  • Honey: A drizzle of pure honey enhances the flavor of the dip and adds sweetness to the dish.
  • Dijon Mustard: This provides a zesty kick; feel free to adjust based on your taste preferences.
  • Garlic Powder: A staple seasoning that packs in flavor without overwhelming the dish.
  • Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; don’t skimp on these basics!
  • Olive Oil Spray: Helps achieve that perfect golden crust without excess fat.

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

Let’s Make it together

Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Prepare Your Chicken: Cut boneless chicken breasts into strips about one inch wide. This ensures even cooking while keeping them juicy inside.

Create Your Dipping Stations: In one bowl, whisk together eggs until frothy. In another bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

Dip and Coat Your Chicken Strips: First, dip each chicken strip into egg wash then coat it generously with panko mixture. Ensure they’re fully covered for maximum crunch.

Arrange on Baking Sheet : Place coated strips on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Give them a light spray of olive oil to enhance browning.

Bake Until Golden Brown : Bake in your preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Flip halfway through cooking for even crispiness.

Mix Your Honey Mustard Dip : In a small bowl, mix together Dijon mustard and honey until smooth. Adjust proportions based on your preferred sweetness level.

Now you’ve got crispy baked chicken tenders paired beautifully with a delightful honey mustard dip. Serve hot and watch as everyone dives into this deliciousness!

You Must Know

  • Baked chicken tenders with honey mustard dip are crispy, juicy, and easy to make
  • Perfect for kids and adults alike, they bring a delightful crunch and a sweet tanginess that elevates any meal
  • Meal prep becomes a breeze with this quick recipe

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by marinating your chicken tenders to infuse flavor, then coat them in breadcrumbs before baking at 400°F for 20 minutes. This ensures they’re crispy outside while remaining juicy inside.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap the honey mustard for barbecue sauce or ranch dressing! Spice it up with cayenne pepper or garlic powder to suit your palate.

Storing & Reheating

Store baked chicken tenders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes for that fresh-out-of-the-oven crispiness.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • To avoid soggy chicken tenders, make sure they’re patted dry before coating
  • Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch and bake on a wire rack to allow airflow
  • Fresh herbs can elevate the flavor profile significantly!

The first time I made baked chicken tenders, my niece declared me “the best chef ever,” which instantly made me feel like a culinary genius!

FAQs

FAQ

Can I use frozen chicken tenders?

Yes, just adjust the cooking time according to package instructions for best results.

What can I serve with baked chicken tenders?

Pair them with a fresh salad or crispy fries for a delightful meal experience.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of regular ones to keep it safe and delicious!

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Baked Chicken Tenders with Honey Mustard Dip

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Baked Chicken Tenders with Honey Mustard Dip deliver a crispy, flavorful experience that’s perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to game day snacks.

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 34 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Olive oil spray

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Cut chicken breasts into strips about one inch wide.
  3. Whisk eggs in a bowl; in another bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  4. Dip each chicken strip into the egg wash then coat with the panko mixture.
  5. Arrange coated strips on the baking sheet in a single layer and lightly spray with olive oil.
  6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden brown and cooked through.
  7. In a small bowl, combine honey and Dijon mustard for the dip.
  • Author: Jennifer
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: Approximately 3 tenders (100g)
  • Calories: 310
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 490mg
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 28g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg

You might also like these recipes

Leave a Comment

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star