Honey Mustard Chicken Tenders (Printable version)
Golden crispy chicken strips with sweet tangy honey mustard sauce. Family favorite ready in 35 minutes.
# What you'll need:
→ Chicken
01 - 1 lb chicken tenders or boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
→ Breading
02 - 1 cup all-purpose flour
03 - 2 large eggs, beaten
04 - 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
05 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
06 - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
07 - 1/2 teaspoon paprika
08 - 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
→ Honey Mustard Sauce
09 - 3 tablespoons Dijon mustard
10 - 2 tablespoons honey
11 - 1 1/2 tablespoons mayonnaise
12 - 1 teaspoon lemon juice
# Directions:
01 - Preheat the oven to 425°F or heat oil in a deep skillet for frying.
02 - Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour mixed with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder; one with beaten eggs; one with breadcrumbs.
03 - Dredge each chicken strip first in seasoned flour, dip in egg, then press into breadcrumbs to coat evenly.
04 - For baking: Place breaded chicken on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Spray with cooking oil and bake for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and cooked through. For frying: Heat 1/2 inch oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry tenders in batches for 3-4 minutes per side until golden. Drain on paper towels.
05 - Whisk together Dijon mustard, honey, mayonnaise, and lemon juice until smooth and combined.
06 - Serve chicken tenders hot with honey mustard sauce for dipping.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- The honey mustard sauce comes together in seconds but tastes like something from a restaurant
- Perfect for those nights when you need something everyone will actually eat
02 -
- Letting the breaded chicken sit for a few minutes before cooking helps the coating stick better
- Don't overcrowd the pan when frying—cook in batches for the crispiest results
03 -
- Pat the chicken strips dry before breading for better adhesion
- Let fried chicken drain on a wire rack instead of paper towels to stay crispy