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These Crispy Mustard Chicken Tenders are the perfect balance of tangy Dijon mustard and sweet honey, wrapped in a crispy breadcrumb coating. Baked to golden perfection, they’re not only delicious but also healthier than fried tenders. The crispy exterior and juicy interior make them an easy, satisfying meal for any occasion, and they’re perfect for dipping in your favorite sauce.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
½ cup Dijon mustard
¼ cup honey
1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
½ tsp paprika
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
¼ cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs, beaten
Cooking spray or oil for baking

Directions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
Prepare the Mustard Mixture: In a medium bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard and honey until smooth. Set aside.
Prepare the Breadcrumb Coating: In a shallow dish, combine the breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Set Up Dipping Stations: In separate shallow dishes, place the flour and beaten eggs.
Coat the Chicken Strips: Dip each chicken strip first into the flour, then the egg, and finally coat with the breadcrumb mixture. Press gently to ensure the coating sticks.
Bake the Chicken: Arrange the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray or drizzle with a little oil for extra crispiness.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden brown. Flip the tenders halfway through baking for even crispiness.
Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Nutrients (Per Serving – 1 Serving)

Calories: 320 kcal
Carbohydrates: 20g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 150mg
Sodium: 500mg
Potassium: 500mg
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 8g

These Crispy Mustard Chicken Tenders are a fun and delicious alternative to regular chicken tenders. With their sweet and tangy flavor, they’re sure to become a family favorite! Enjoy with your favorite dipping sauce for added flavor.

Why You Should Try Crispy Mustard Chicken Tenders

What makes these chicken tenders so great is their perfect combination of flavors. The Dijon mustard adds a sharp, tangy bite, while the honey brings a touch of sweetness, creating a balanced and savory coating. The breadcrumb coating provides a satisfying crunch without the need for frying, making these tenders both lighter and healthier than the usual fried variety. Plus, they’re baked, which makes them easier to prepare without the mess or extra calories of deep-frying.

These tenders are also incredibly versatile. They can be enjoyed with your favorite dipping sauce, served with a side salad, or paired with roasted vegetables or fries for a well-rounded meal. Since they bake quickly in the oven, they’re a convenient option for busy weeknights or meal prep.

Key Ingredients for Crispy Mustard Chicken Tenders

The ingredients for these crispy mustard chicken tenders are simple, but they come together to create a flavorful and satisfying dish. Here’s what you’ll need:

Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are cut into strips to create the tender pieces. They’re lean and protein-packed, making this dish a filling and nutritious option.
Dijon Mustard: The tangy flavor of Dijon mustard provides a zesty base for the chicken tenders. It adds an extra layer of flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of honey.
Honey: Honey adds sweetness and helps the mustard create a sticky, flavorful coating for the chicken. It also enhances the crispiness of the breadcrumb coating when baked.
Breadcrumbs (Panko or Regular): Breadcrumbs are used to coat the chicken tenders, creating the signature crispy exterior. Panko breadcrumbs will give them an extra crunch, but regular breadcrumbs work just as well.
Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Paprika, Salt, and Pepper: These seasonings enhance the overall flavor of the chicken tenders, adding a savory and aromatic touch to the dish.
All-Purpose Flour: Flour helps to dry the chicken slightly, creating a base for the egg wash and allowing the breadcrumb coating to stick more easily.
Eggs: Beaten eggs act as a binding agent to hold the breadcrumb coating in place while the chicken bakes.
Cooking Spray or Oil: A light spray of cooking oil helps the breadcrumbs crisp up during baking, ensuring the tenders have that perfect golden-brown finish.

How to Make Crispy Mustard Chicken Tenders

Making these crispy chicken tenders is simple and comes together in just a few steps. Here’s how to make them:

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray. This will help prevent the chicken from sticking to the pan and make cleanup easier.
Prepare the Mustard Mixture: In a medium bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard and honey until smooth and well-combined. Set this mixture aside.
Prepare the Breadcrumb Coating: In a shallow dish, combine the breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine, ensuring the seasonings are evenly distributed in the breadcrumbs.
Set Up Dipping Stations: In separate shallow dishes, place the flour and the beaten eggs. These will be used to coat the chicken before dipping it in the breadcrumb mixture.
Coat the Chicken Strips: Start by dipping each chicken strip into the flour, coating it evenly. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, and then into the breadcrumb mixture. Press gently on the breadcrumbs to ensure the coating sticks well.
Bake the Chicken: Arrange the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they are not overcrowded. Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray or drizzle with a little oil to enhance the crispiness. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the coating is golden brown and crispy. Flip the tenders halfway through baking for even crispiness.
Serve: Once baked, remove the chicken tenders from the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes before serving. They can be enjoyed as is or paired with your favorite dipping sauce.

Serving Suggestions for Crispy Mustard Chicken Tenders

These chicken tenders are delicious on their own, but you can pair them with a variety of sides and sauces to enhance the meal:

Dipping Sauces: Serve with your favorite dipping sauces, such as honey mustard, barbecue sauce, ranch dressing, or even a spicy sriracha mayo for some heat.
Side Salad: Pair these tenders with a light, fresh salad for a well-balanced meal. A simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette would provide a refreshing contrast to the savory chicken.
Roasted Vegetables or Fries: Serve these tenders with roasted vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, or sweet potato fries for a hearty meal.
Rice or Quinoa: Pair them with a side of rice or quinoa for a more filling meal, especially if you’re looking to increase your carbohydrate intake.

Nutritional Information

Each serving of these crispy mustard chicken tenders (one tender) contains approximately 320 calories, with 20g of carbohydrates, 12g of protein, and 15g of fat. The tenders are relatively high in protein, making them a filling option that will keep you satisfied. They also provide 2g of fiber, which helps balance out the carbs. With 8g of sugar from the honey and Dijon mustard, these tenders are lightly sweetened but still savory.

Conclusion: Why You Should Make Crispy Mustard Chicken Tenders

Crispy Mustard Chicken Tenders are a healthier, homemade version of the classic chicken tenders. The combination of tangy Dijon mustard, sweet honey, crispy breadcrumbs, and savory bacon makes them irresistibly delicious. They’re easy to prepare, and you can bake them to golden perfection without the need for deep-frying, making them a great option for anyone looking for a lighter yet satisfying meal.

Whether you’re enjoying them as a snack, part of a larger meal, or as a fun appetizer for a gathering, these tenders are sure to please. Plus, they’re versatile and can be paired with a variety of dipping sauces and sides to make them your own. Give them a try and enjoy a healthier take on a beloved comfort food!