Crispy Chicken Tenders with Sweet Honey-Mustard Dipping Sauce: A Mouthwatering Family Favorite

 Crispy Chicken Tenders with Sweet Honey-Mustard Dipping Sauce: A Mouthwatering Family Favorite

If you're craving crispy, golden-brown chicken tenders with a side of sweet, tangy dipping sauce, you’re in for a treat. These oven-baked chicken tenders deliver everything you love about fast-food comfort—without the guilt. They’re juicy on the inside, crunchy on the outside, and paired with a homemade honey-mustard sauce that’s so addictive, you’ll want to drizzle it on everything. Whether you're feeding picky kids, entertaining guests, or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that never disappoints.

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🛒 Ingredients & Their Roles

For the Chicken Tenders:

½ cup panko breadcrumbs

The secret to that ultra-crispy texture. Panko crumbs are lighter and airier than traditional breadcrumbs, giving your tenders a satisfying crunch.

1 tsp paprika

Adds mild heat and a beautiful golden hue, enhancing flavor and color.

½ tsp garlic powder

Infuses the tenders with deep, savory undertones.

¼ tsp onion powder

Builds complexity and gives a subtle sweetness.

¼ tsp salt

Essential for seasoning and bringing all the flavors together.

1 cup all-purpose flour (Not listed but essential)

Creates the base coating to help the spices and breadcrumbs stick.

1 lb chicken tenders or boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips (Not listed but required)

Lean protein source that cooks quickly and stays juicy with the right technique.

2 large eggs (Not listed but necessary)

Helps the breadcrumbs adhere to the chicken for a lasting, crispy crust.

For the Sweet Honey-Mustard Dipping Sauce:

¼ cup honey

Brings natural sweetness that complements the savory tenders.

2 tbsp Dijon mustard

Adds tang and depth with a hint of spice, balancing the sweetness of the honey.

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🔪 Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

2. Set Up Your Breading Station

Grab three shallow bowls:

Bowl 1: Add flour (about 1 cup).

Bowl 2: Whisk 2 eggs until smooth.

Bowl 3: Combine panko breadcrumbs, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt.

3. Bread the Chicken

Dip each chicken strip first into the flour (shake off excess), then into the egg, and finally coat with the seasoned panko mixture, pressing gently to ensure full coverage.

4. Bake to Crispy Perfection

Place the breaded chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the tenders are golden and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).

5. Make the Dipping Sauce

While the tenders bake, whisk together ¼ cup honey and 2 tbsp Dijon mustard in a small bowl. Taste and adjust the ratio based on your preference for sweetness or tang.

6. Serve and Savor

Let the tenders rest for 2-3 minutes out of the oven, then serve them hot with a side of the sweet honey-mustard dipping sauce.

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💡 Why This Recipe Works (and Why People Love It)

Healthier than fried: These tenders are baked, not fried—cutting down on grease while keeping the satisfying crunch.

Kid-friendly: Mild spices and a sweet dip make it a go-to for even the pickiest eaters.

Quick and easy: 35 minutes total from prep to plate—perfect for busy weeknights.

Customizable: Swap spices, try different dips, or turn them into sandwiches or wraps.

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👨‍🍳 Pro Tips for Perfect Chicken Tenders

Pat the chicken dry before breading to help the coating stick better.

Spray the tenders lightly with oil before baking to enhance crispiness.

Use a wire rack on the baking sheet to allow heat to circulate under the tenders for extra crunch.

Want more flavor? Add grated Parmesan to the breadcrumb mixture.

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🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Pair these crispy chicken tenders with:

Sweet potato fries or oven-roasted vegetables

A side of coleslaw or a fresh green salad

Mac and cheese for the ultimate comfort combo

Mini slider buns for DIY chicken tender sandwiches

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🔚 Final Thoughts

These Crispy Chicken Tenders with Sweet Honey-Mustard Dipping Sauce prove that easy doesn't have to mean boring. With just a few pantry staples, you’ll have a restaurant-quality meal that’s crunchy, juicy, and downright addictive. Whether you're hosting game night or meal prepping for the week, this recipe delivers on flavor, texture, and simplicity.

⭐ Try it once, and it’ll become a permanent part of your dinner rotation. Bookmark it, share it, and most importantly—enjoy

 every bite.

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