I absolutely adore crispy chicken tenders! There’s just something so comforting about that crunchy, golden crust paired with tender chicken inside. It’s one of those dishes that can please pretty much everyone at the table. Growing up, my mom would whip up a batch for family movie nights, and the house would fill with that mouth-watering aroma. I can vividly remember sneaking a bite (or two… okay, maybe three) while she was still setting the table.
What makes this particular recipe stand out for me is the honey mustard dipping sauce that accompanies these golden delights. It’s sweet, tangy, and gives the chicken a fun twist. I often find myself whipping up a double batch because they disappear so quickly! So, let’s dive into how to make these crispy chicken tenders with that delicious honey mustard that’s perfect for dipping.
What’s in Crispy Chicken Tenders with Honey Mustard?
Chicken Breast: The star of the show! I prefer using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for super tender bites. Always remember to cut them into uniform pieces for even cooking.
Panko Breadcrumbs: This is what gives the chicken tenders their signature crunch. Panko is lighter and flakier than traditional breadcrumbs, and it provides that irresistible golden-brown crust.
Eggs: A binding agent that helps the breadcrumbs stick to the chicken. I like to beat the eggs with a splash of water for an easier coating experience.
Flour: A light dusting of flour helps the egg stick better to the chicken. It also contributes to the crispy texture!
Honey: This sweet ingredient forms the base of our honey mustard sauce. It adds a delicious sweetness that balances out the tanginess of the mustard.
Dijon Mustard: The zingy counterpart to honey in our dipping sauce! I love the depth of flavor that Dijon adds. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can use spicy mustard, too!
Salt and Pepper: Simple but essential for enhancing all the flavors. Don’t skimp on seasoning!
Is Crispy Chicken Tenders with Honey Mustard Good for You?
Oh, the age-old question! While crispy chicken tenders might not win any health awards, they can be a part of a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation.
Chicken Breast: A lean source of protein that helps maintain muscle mass and keeps you feeling full. It’s a great option for a wholesome meal.
Panko Breadcrumbs: They are a lighter option compared to traditional breadcrumbs, but they still pack some carbs. Just keep your portion sizes in mind!
Honey: Offers some vitamins and antioxidants, though it does add sugar to the mix. A little goes a long way, so when making the sauce, I use just enough for flavor without overdoing it.
So, while these tenders aren’t exactly a salad, they can certainly be a delicious, satisfying addition to your meal rotation. Enjoy them with a side of veggies or a refreshing salad for a more balanced plate!
Ingredients List
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (serves about 4)
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 large eggs
– ½ cup all-purpose flour
– ¼ cup honey
– ¼ cup Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Oil for frying (canola or vegetable oil works great)
How to Make Crispy Chicken Tenders with Honey Mustard?
1. Start by cutting the chicken breasts into strips. Try to keep them around the same size for even cooking.
2. In three separate bowls, set up your dredging station:
– In the first bowl, season the flour with salt and pepper.
– In the second bowl, beat the eggs.
– In the third bowl, place the panko breadcrumbs.
3. Dredge each chicken strip in flour, shaking off any excess. Then dip it into the beaten eggs, and finally coat it in the panko breadcrumbs, ensuring it’s well-covered.
4. Heat oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat. You’ll want enough oil to submerge the tenders halfway.
5. Once the oil is hot (test by dropping in a breadcrumb – it should sizzle), carefully add the chicken tenders in batches. Fry them for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through. Drain them on paper towels.
6. While they’re cooling, mix together the honey and Dijon mustard in a small bowl. Adjust the sweetness to your liking by adding more honey if you want it sweeter!
7. Serve the crispy chicken tenders hot with that delightful honey mustard sauce on the side. Enjoy!
Dipping Delight!
I love to throw in some variations with my chicken tenders now and then. You could spice things up by adding some paprika or garlic powder to the flour for an extra kick. Or, if you’re looking for a healthier option, bake them instead of frying. Just brush or spray with a bit of oil and pop them in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes or until crispy.
When it comes to serving, these tenders are fantastic with a side of fresh veggies or a light coleslaw. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauce – barbecue, ranch, or even a spicy sriracha mayo – and you’ll have a feast!
I really encourage you to try making these crispy chicken tenders with honey mustard for your next meal. They’re sure to be a hit, and you might just create some new memories like I did with my family. Don’t forget to share your experience and any creative twists you give to this recipe! Happy cooking!