Save This dish features tender chicken strips coated in a seasoned breadcrumb and Parmesan mix, baked until golden and crisp. A smooth honey mustard sauce combines Dijon mustard, honey, mayonnaise, and lemon juice to add a tangy, sweet contrast. Simple to prepare and cook, it’s ideal for family dinners or as a tasty appetizer. The method includes oven-baking for optimal crunchiness, with an air fryer option for convenience. Serve alongside fries, salad, or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
My youngest kid stood on a chair last Tuesday, barely tall enough to reach the counter, dipping chicken strips into bowls with the kind of serious concentration usually reserved for important scientific experiments. Flour on the nose, egg wash drips on the floor, absolute joy in every crispy bite that followed. Weve made these tenders three times since.
Last month my sister came over for dinner, skeptical about oven fried anything, and went back for thirds. She texted me the next day asking for the recipe, claiming her husband had already requested them for the weekend. Sometimes the simplest meals become the ones people remember most.
Ingredients
- Chicken breast tenders: Fresh tenders work best, but you can slice regular chicken breasts into even strips
- All-purpose flour: The first layer that helps the egg wash stick and creates a base for the coating
- Large eggs: The glue that holds everything together, beaten until slightly frothy
- Panko breadcrumbs: These Japanese breadcrumbs create an extra light and crispy texture
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a savory depth and helps the crust turn golden brown
- Garlic powder: Even distribution of garlic flavor without any burnt bits
- Smoked paprika: Gives a subtle smoky flavor and beautiful color to the coating
- Salt and black pepper: Essential seasoning that brings out all the other flavors
- Olive oil: A light drizzle helps the breading crisp up in the oven
- Dijon mustard: The sharp tang that balances the honey sweetness
- Honey: Pure honey adds the perfect sweetness to cut through the mustard
- Mayonnaise: Creates a creamy, velvety base for the dipping sauce
- Lemon juice: Fresh acidity brightens the entire sauce
Instructions
- Prep your oven and pan:
- Preheat to 220°C (425°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup
- Set up your dipping station:
- Arrange three shallow bowls with flour, beaten eggs, and the panko mixture mixed with Parmesan and spices
- Coat the chicken:
- Dredge each tender in flour, dip in egg, then press into the crumb mixture until well coated
- Arrange and oil:
- Place chicken on the prepared sheet and lightly drizzle with olive oil for extra crunch
- Bake until golden:
- Cook for 18 to 20 minutes, flipping halfway, until they reach 74°C (165°F) internally
- Whisk the sauce:
- Combine Dijon, honey, mayonnaise, and lemon juice until smooth and creamy
- Serve immediately:
- Plate the hot tenders with the sauce on the side for dipping
Save My friend Sarah started making these weekly after I shared the recipe, and her kids actually cheer when they see the chicken coming out of the oven. Thats the kind of dinner win every parent needs in their back pocket.
Making It Your Own
Once you have the basic method down, these tenders become a canvas for whatever flavors your family loves. Sometimes I add cayenne when we want heat, other times Italian seasoning when craving something herby.
The Air Fryer Hack
On busy weeknights, I skip the oven entirely and cook these at 200°C (400°F) for just 10 to 12 minutes. The air fryer makes them fiercely crispy with barely any oil, and they cook in half the time.
What To Serve With Them
These tenders pair with almost anything, but some sides just work better than others. A crisp salad cuts through the richness, roasted potatoes make it feel like a proper dinner, and steamed green beans add color to the plate.
- Try sweet potato fries for a fun twist
- Coleslaw adds a nice crunch and acidity
- Keep extra sauce nearby, people always want more
Save Theres something deeply satisfying about homemade chicken tenders, hot and crispy from your own kitchen. Hope they become a regular in your dinner rotation too.
Recipe FAQs
- → How can I make chicken tenders extra crispy?
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Use a mix of panko and regular breadcrumbs, and drizzle olive oil before baking to achieve a crunchy texture.
- → Can I prepare the honey mustard sauce in advance?
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Yes, the sauce can be mixed ahead and stored in the fridge to enhance flavors before serving.
- → What temperature should chicken tenders be cooked to?
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They should reach an internal temperature of 74°C (165°F) to ensure they are fully cooked.
- → Is there a quicker cooking alternative to oven baking?
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Chicken tenders can be cooked in an air fryer at 200°C (400°F) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- → What sides pair well with chicken tenders and honey mustard?
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Fries, fresh salads, or steamed vegetables complement the dish nicely for a balanced meal.
