Baked Chicken Tenders with Honey Mustard Dip are a delightful treat that can make anyone forget about their worries. Imagine tender chicken coated in a seasoned crust, baked to golden perfection. Add a creamy honey mustard dip that makes every bite an adventure in flavor—who wouldn’t be excited? Whether it’s game night or a casual family dinner, these tenders steal the show and add joy to any occasion.
I remember the first time I made these for my friends during a movie marathon. The aroma wafted through the house like a siren’s call and soon everyone was gathered in the kitchen. With smiles all around and fingers dipped in that sweet and tangy goodness, I knew I had stumbled upon something special. These tenders are not just food; they’re memories waiting to happen.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This dish is not only easy to prepare but also offers an irresistible flavor combination that pleases everyone
- The golden-brown crispy coating makes it visually appealing for any table setting
- You can serve them at parties or as an everyday meal; they’re adaptable for any occasion
- Plus, they pair perfectly with various sides or dips!
When I made these tenders for my family, their reactions were priceless! Everyone happily devoured them in minutes.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts; adjust based on your crowd size.
- Panko Breadcrumbs: These give the best crunch; trust me on this one!
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated adds depth of flavor; avoid pre-shredded versions.
- Garlic Powder: A must-have for that aromatic kick; fresh garlic works too.
- Honey Mustard Sauce: Store-bought is fine, but homemade takes it up a notch!
- Olive Oil Spray: For that perfect golden hue; don’t skip this step!
- Paprika: Adds color and a mild flavor; smoked paprika enhances it even more.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; adjust according to your taste preference.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make It Together
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) while you gather your ingredients. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup later on.
Prepare the Chicken: Slice the boneless chicken breasts into strips about 1-inch wide. Pat them dry with paper towels to ensure the coating sticks well.
Create the Coating Mixture: In one bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well until evenly combined.
Coat the Chicken Strips: Dip each chicken strip into the breadcrumb mixture until fully coated. Place them on the prepared baking sheet without overlapping—give them some space!
Spray for Crispiness: Lightly spray each coated strip with olive oil spray. This helps achieve that beautiful golden brown crust as they bake.
Bake Until Golden Brown: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You want that crust crispy!
Prepare Your Honey Mustard Dip: While the chicken bakes, mix equal parts honey and mustard in a small bowl until well combined—this simple dip will elevate your tenders!
Serve your baked chicken tenders hot out of the oven alongside that delectable honey mustard dip. Watch as everyone becomes an instant fan!
You Must Know
- Baked chicken tenders are healthier than fried, offering a crispy texture without the guilt
- The honey mustard dip adds a sweet tang that complements the tender meat perfectly
- Make extra to enjoy as leftovers; they taste even better the next day!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve perfectly baked chicken tenders, first coat them in seasoned breadcrumbs, then bake at 400°F for about 20 minutes. Always flip halfway through for even golden crispiness.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize your breading! Swap regular breadcrumbs for panko for extra crunch or add spices like paprika or garlic powder for an extra flavor kick.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet at 375°F until warm, maintaining that crispiness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese in your breadcrumb mix for added flavor and richness
- Ensure the chicken is fully coated to avoid any bland bites
- Letting the tenders rest after baking helps keep them juicy and tender
Cooking these baked chicken tenders always reminds me of my niece’s birthday party when everyone declared them “the best!” Watching her little friends devour them was priceless.
FAQ
Can I use frozen chicken tenders?
Yes, you can bake frozen chicken tenders; just increase cooking time by about 5-10 minutes.
What should I serve with baked chicken tenders?
Serve with fresh veggies, homemade fries, or a crisp salad for a complete meal.
How do I get my chicken tenders crispy?
Ensure they are well-coated and use a wire rack during baking to allow air circulation.
Baked Chicken Tenders with Honey Mustard Dip
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 4 servings 1x
Description
Baked Chicken Tenders with Honey Mustard Dip offer a crispy, savory delight paired with a sweet and tangy dip, perfect for family dinners or game day gatherings.
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil spray
- Honey mustard sauce
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Slice chicken breasts into 1-inch strips and pat dry.
- In a bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Coat each chicken strip in the breadcrumb mixture and place on the baking sheet.
- Lightly spray with olive oil for crispiness.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- For the honey mustard dip, mix equal parts honey and mustard in a small bowl.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 tenders (105g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
