When it comes to weeknight dinners, quick and delicious options can sometimes feel out of reach. But imagine the delightful aroma of golden-brown Crispy Mustard Chicken Tenders wafting through your kitchen, making your mouth water. This beloved dish combines the tangy notes of Dijon mustard with the sweetness of honey, creating an irresistible flavor that beckons you to dive in.
Perfect for families or a cozy gathering, these tenders are baked to crispy perfection, delivering all the satisfaction of fried food without the guilt. In just 35 minutes, you can whip up a batch that not only pleases the palate but is also adaptable to different dietary needs—gluten-free breadcrumbs or juicy chicken thighs can easily transform this dish to suit everyone! So, if you’re ready to elevate your dinner game and impress your loved ones, let’s get cooking these Crispy Mustard Chicken Tenders!
Why are Crispy Mustard Chicken Tenders amazing?
Flavorful Delight: The unique combination of tangy Dijon mustard and honey infuses each tender with a mouthwatering flavor that’s hard to resist.
Quick Preparation: In just 35 minutes, you can have a deliciously baked meal ready, perfect for those busy weeknights.
Guilt-Free Enjoyment: Baked instead of fried, they offer a satisfying crunch minus the extra calories.
Dietary Flexibility: With simple substitutions like gluten-free breadcrumbs or chicken thighs, you can easily accommodate various dietary preferences.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, these tenders will impress both kids and adults alike!
Crispy Mustard Chicken Tenders Ingredients
For the Chicken
• Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts – This main protein gives structure and can be swapped for thighs for added juiciness.
For the Coating
• Dijon Mustard – Infuses the tenders with a tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with honey.
• Honey – Adds a touch of sweetness and moisture that balances the mustard’s tang.
• Breadcrumbs – Provides a deliciously crunchy coating; opt for gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed.
• Garlic Powder – Enhances flavor and brings an aromatic element to the dish.
• Onion Powder – Adds depth and savory notes that complement the other flavors.
• Paprika – Offers a mild spice and vibrant color to the coating.
• Salt – Essential for enhancing the overall flavor of the tenders.
• Black Pepper – Introduces warmth and a bit of zing to the dish.
• All-Purpose Flour – Helps the coating adhere well to the chicken.
• Eggs (beaten) – Acts as a binding agent to keep the coating in place.
• Cooking Spray or Oil – Ensures a crispy finish when baking, making the tenders golden and delightful.
These Crispy Mustard Chicken Tenders are sure to become a new family favorite!
How to Make Crispy Mustard Chicken Tenders
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Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray. This step ensures a non-stick surface for your tenders to bake perfectly.
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Whisk together Dijon mustard and honey in a medium bowl until fully combined. This combination will give your chicken a sweet and tangy flavor that is simply irresistible.
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Mix breadcrumbs with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper in a shallow dish. This flavorful coating will create the perfect crispy crunch to complement your tenders.
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Prepare your dipping stations: set up one with flour and the other with beaten eggs. These stations will help ensure a lovely, even coating on each chicken strip.
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Dip each chicken strip into the flour, shaking off any excess, then into the egg, and finally coat it with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere. This three-step process is key to achieving that crispy texture.
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Arrange the coated tenders on the lined baking sheet and spray the tops lightly with cooking oil for extra crunch. This helps them achieve a beautifully golden-brown finish while baking.
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Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping the tenders halfway through for even crispiness, until the coating is golden brown and the chicken is cooked through. You’ll know they are ready when they reach that perfect crunch!
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Cool for a few minutes before serving. This brief waiting time allows the delicious flavors to settle in while the tenders maintain their crispiness.
Optional: Serve with your favorite dipping sauces like ranch or honey mustard for an extra burst of flavor!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Crispy Mustard Chicken Tenders
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Choose Chicken Wisely: Always opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a classic texture, or try thighs for added juiciness. This will ensure your Crispy Mustard Chicken Tenders are tender and flavorful.
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Layering Flavors: Don’t skip on marinating the chicken in the mustard and honey mixture for at least 15 minutes; this increases the depth of flavor before coating.
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Crispy Coating: For extra crunch, consider using panko breadcrumbs rather than regular ones; they provide a delightful texture that elevates your tenders.
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Monitor Baking: Keep an eye on the tenders during the baking process. Flip them halfway through to ensure they brown evenly and achieve that perfect crispy finish.
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Storing Leftovers: If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container and reheat in the oven instead of the microwave to maintain crispiness.
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Customize Heat Levels: Spice things up by adding cayenne pepper or your favorite hot sauce to the breadcrumb mixture for a flavorful kick!
Storage Tips for Crispy Mustard Chicken Tenders
- Fridge: Store cooked Crispy Mustard Chicken Tenders in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure they are completely cooled before sealing to maintain their texture.
- Freezer: Uncooked, coated tenders can be frozen for up to 3 months. Lay them flat on a baking sheet until frozen solid, then transfer to a freezer bag for easy storage.
- Reheating: For best results, reheat cooked tenders in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes to restore their crispiness, avoiding the microwave if possible.
- Make-Ahead: Prepare and coat tenders in advance, then refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This is perfect for busy weeknights!
Make Ahead Options
These Crispy Mustard Chicken Tenders are perfect for meal prep, making busy weeknights a breeze! You can prepare and coat the tenders up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the coating instructions and then place the coated tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. For longer storage, uncooked, coated tenders can be frozen for up to 3 months; just be sure to wrap them well to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to bake, simply place the tenders on a baking sheet and proceed with the cooking instructions straight from the fridge or after thawing if frozen. This way, you’ll enjoy delicious, homemade tenders just as satisfying with minimal effort!
Crispy Mustard Chicken Tenders Variations
Customize your Crispy Mustard Chicken Tenders with these exciting twists and substitutions for a personalized touch.
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Dairy-Free: Use a dairy-free yogurt or almond milk in place of eggs for a plant-based binding agent.
This ensures your tenders stay crisp while catering to lactose-free diets, opening up new possibilities. -
Spicy Kick: Add 1-2 teaspoons of cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mix for an extra layer of heat.
Your family will love the surprise of flavor that elevates the crispy tenders to a whole new level of excitement! -
Herbed Blend: Incorporate dried herbs like Italian seasoning or dried parsley into the breadcrumb mixture.
This will infuse each tender with aromatic herbal notes that brighten the dish effortlessly. -
Zesty Mustard: Consider swapping Dijon for whole grain or spicy brown mustard for a different flavor profile.
Each variation uniquely enhances the tenders while still staying true to their crispy essence. -
Vegan Option: Replace chicken with tofu or tempeh, marinated in the mustard-honey mixture for a delectable plant-based twist.
These options retain the same zingy flavor and crispy texture, perfect for plant lovers and vegans alike. -
Panko Breadcrumbs: Switch to panko breadcrumbs for an ultra-crispy exterior that crunches delightfully.
The extra texture will have everyone reaching for seconds! -
Citrus Infusion: Add a splash of fresh lemon or lime juice to the marinade for a zesty brightness.
This citrusy note complements the chicken beautifully, elevating the entire dish with every bite. -
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour to make these tenders friendly for gluten-sensitive folks.
These simple swaps allow everyone at the table to enjoy the deliciousness without worry!
What to Serve with Crispy Mustard Chicken Tenders?
The delightful crunch of these tenders deserves a sidekick that enhances your meal experience, bringing flavors to life.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their buttery richness contrasts beautifully with the crispy tenders, creating a comforting balance on your plate.
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Zesty Coleslaw: The crunchy freshness and tangy dressing revive your palate, making each bite of tender chicken even more enjoyable.
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Garlic Green Beans: These sautéed green beauties add a pop of color and a burst of flavor, complementing the tender’s savory notes.
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Honey Mustard Dipping Sauce: Reinforcing the dish’s core flavors, this sauce elevates each bite with an extra layer of sweet and tangy goodness.
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Sweet Potato Fries: Their slight sweetness and crispy texture pair wonderfully with the mustardy goodness of the chicken, creating a satisfying contrast.
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Citrusy Quinoa Salad: Offering a refreshing twist, this salad’s brightness lifts the meal while introducing healthy grains to the table.
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Peach Iced Tea: This sweet, cool drink not only refreshes but also complements the dish’s flavors, creating a delightful dining experience.
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Apple Pie: End on a sweet note! The warm, spiced flavors of apple pie will round out your meal perfectly, making it memorable for all ages.
Crispy Mustard Chicken Tenders Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best chicken for my tenders?
Absolutely! When selecting chicken, I recommend opting for boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a classic texture. However, chicken thighs can also be used for extra juiciness. If you choose thighs, they will provide a slightly richer flavor and tenderness that’s hard to beat!
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Cooked Crispy Mustard Chicken Tenders can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To maintain their texture, let them cool completely before sealing. You’ll want to enjoy them quickly to savor that crunch!
Can I freeze the tenders for later use?
Certainly! Uncooked, coated tenders can be frozen for up to 3 months. Here’s how to do it: lay them flat on a baking sheet until they are frozen solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. This method prevents them from sticking together and makes it easy to take out just what you need later.
How can I reheat the chicken tenders without losing crispiness?
To reheat your leftover tenders while keeping them crispy, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and place the tenders on a baking sheet. Bake them for about 10-15 minutes until they’re heated through and regain their crunch. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Very! For gluten-free options, simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs in this recipe. Additionally, ensure that your Dijon mustard and any other condiments or sauces you use do not contain gluten. Always check labels to accommodate any food allergies or dietary needs.
Crispy Mustard Chicken Tenders for Guilt-Free Crunch Time
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
- Whisk together Dijon mustard and honey in a medium bowl until fully combined.
- Mix breadcrumbs with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper in a shallow dish.
- Set up one dipping station with flour and the other with beaten eggs.
- Dip each chicken strip into the flour, shake off excess, then into the egg, and coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
- Arrange the coated tenders on the lined baking sheet and spray lightly with cooking oil.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until coating is golden brown and chicken is cooked.
- Cool for a few minutes before serving.