Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders with Creamy Mustard Dip
Introduction
Welcome to my kitchen, where I’m about to share with you a recipe that will change your chicken tender game forever. These Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders with Creamy Mustard Dip are not your average chicken tenders. They are crispy, flavorful, and baked to perfection. Say goodbye to greasy deep-fried tenders and hello to a healthier and equally delicious alternative.
There’s something incredibly satisfying about biting into a crispy piece of chicken that is juicy and tender on the inside. These chicken tenders deliver that perfect combination of textures and flavors that will leave you craving for more. Plus, they are baked, so you can enjoy guilt-free indulgence.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are plenty of reasons why this recipe will become a favorite in your household. First and foremost, these chicken tenders are incredibly easy to make. No fancy techniques or equipment required. Just a few simple ingredients and some basic pantry staples.
The best part? These tenders come out of the oven perfectly crispy, without the need for deep frying. The secret lies in the combination of panko breadcrumbs and a hot oven. And let’s not forget about the creamy mustard dip that adds a tangy and savory kick to every bite.
Another reason to love this recipe is its versatility. Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters or catering to dietary restrictions, these chicken tenders can be easily customized. You can swap the regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or experiment with different seasonings to suit your taste preferences.
Ingredients
To make these Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders with Creamy Mustard Dip, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound chicken tenders
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 eggs
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon fresh chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
Optional ingredient substitutions:
If you have dietary restrictions or simply want to switch things up, here are some ingredient substitutions you can try:
- Gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of panko breadcrumbs
- Grated cheddar cheese instead of Parmesan cheese
- Smoked paprika instead of regular paprika for a bolder flavor
- Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter dip
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your crispy baked chicken tenders:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- In another bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Dip each chicken tender into the egg mixture, making sure it is coated on all sides.
- Roll the chicken tender in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere the breadcrumbs to the chicken.
- Place the coated chicken tender on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat with the remaining tenders.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden and crispy.
- While the chicken tenders are baking, prepare the creamy mustard dip by combining mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl. Stir until smooth and well combined.
- Once the chicken tenders are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes.
- Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley, if desired, and serve with the creamy mustard dip.
Pro tip: For extra crispy chicken tenders, place a wire rack on top of the baking sheet. This allows the hot air to circulate around the tenders, ensuring all sides get crispy.
Expert Tips for Success
To achieve the best results with your Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders, keep these expert tips in mind:
- Make sure to pat the chicken tenders dry with a paper towel before dipping them into the egg mixture. This helps the coating adhere better.
- For an extra flavor boost, marinate the chicken tenders in buttermilk for 30 minutes before coating them with the breadcrumb mixture.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet. Leave some space between each chicken tender to allow for even browning.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the breadcrumb mixture.
- For a healthier option, use whole wheat panko breadcrumbs instead of regular panko breadcrumbs.
Variations and Substitutions
While these Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders are delicious as is, you can get creative and customize them to your liking. Here are some ideas:
- Season the breadcrumb mixture with different herbs and spices, such as Italian seasoning, Cajun seasoning, or lemon pepper.
- Add a touch of heat by mixing some hot sauce or sriracha into the egg mixture.
- Swap the chicken tenders for boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, adjusting the cooking time accordingly.
- Try different dipping sauces, such as barbecue sauce, ranch dressing, or sweet chili sauce.
Serving Suggestions
These Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders with Creamy Mustard Dip are delicious on their own, but here are some serving suggestions to take your meal to the next level:
- Serve with a side of crispy french fries and a refreshing coleslaw for a classic comfort food combo.
- Pair with a mixed green salad and some crusty bread for a light and satisfying meal.
- Make chicken tender sliders by placing a tender on a mini bun and topping it with lettuce, tomato, and your favorite condiments.
- For a healthier option, serve the tenders on a bed of mixed greens or alongside roasted vegetables.
FAQs
Q: Can I make these chicken tenders ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken tenders up to the baking step and refrigerate them for a few hours or overnight. When you’re ready to serve, simply bake them according to the instructions.
Q: Can I freeze the chicken tenders?
A: Yes, you can freeze the uncooked chicken tenders for up to 3 months. Place them on a baking sheet and freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to enjoy them, bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Q: How do I reheat the leftovers?
A: To maintain their crispy texture, it’s best to reheat the chicken tenders in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. You can also use an air fryer for a quick and crispy reheating method.
Final Thoughts
These Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders with Creamy Mustard Dip are a game-changer when it comes to homemade chicken tenders. They are easy to make, packed with flavor, and healthier than their deep-fried counterparts. Whether you’re serving them as a weeknight dinner or a party appetizer, they are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy some seriously delicious chicken tenders. Don’t forget to share your cooking adventures and tag us on social media. Happy cooking!
Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders with Creamy Mustard Dip
Deliciously crispy baked chicken tenders coated in a flavorful breadcrumb mixture, served with a creamy mustard dip. These chicken tenders are easy to make, healthier than deep-fried alternatives, and perfect for satisfying your crispy chicken cravings.
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken tenders
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 eggs
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon fresh chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
Directions
-
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
-
In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
-
In another bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
-
Dip each chicken tender into the egg mixture, ensuring it is coated on all sides.
-
Coat the chicken tender in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere the breadcrumbs.
-
Place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes until golden and crispy.
-
Prepare the creamy mustard dip by combining mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl.
-
Once baked, let the chicken tenders cool for a few minutes, then optionally garnish with fresh parsley before serving with the creamy mustard dip.
