Crispy Mustard Chicken Tenders are my go-to secret weapon for turning any busy weeknight into a flavorful celebration. Infused with tangy Dijon mustard and a hint of sweetness from honey, these tenders are cloaked in a crunchy, golden breadcrumb coating that makes every bite a joy. Not only are they quick to whip up, but they’re also baked, meaning you can indulge guilt-free without sacrificing taste. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll find that this is a perfect answer for both picky eaters and discerning palates alike. Ready to discover how these delicious tenders can become a staple in your kitchen? Let’s get cooking! Why Choose Crispy Mustard Chicken Tenders? Guilt-Free Indulgence: These tenders are baked instead of fried, delivering the same crispy satisfaction without the extra calories and grease. Quick Preparation: With just a handful of ingredients, you can have this dish ready in no time, making it perfect for those busy weeknights. Flavor Explosion: The combination of tangy Dijon mustard and sweet honey gives the tenders a unique flavor that will leave everyone craving more. Versatile Delight: Serve them with a variety of dipping sauces like honey mustard or barbecue, making them appealing for both adults and kids alike. Plus, check out the Spicy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole for another quick meal idea! Meal Prep Friendly: Want to save time? You can prep and coat these tenders ahead of time – just pop them in the oven when you’re ready to eat! Experience how these Crispy Mustard Chicken Tenders can bring joy to your table without the hassle of fast food! Mustard Chicken Tenders Ingredients For the Chicken Tenders • Chicken Breast – The main protein; ensure it’s boneless for easy preparation. • Dijon Mustard – Offers tanginess; use a quality brand for the best flavor. • Honey – Adds sweetness; can be substituted with maple syrup for a vegan option. For the Coating • Breadcrumbs – Provides the crispy coating; opt for gluten-free breadcrumbs for gluten-free diets. • Garlic Powder – Enhances flavor; fresh minced garlic can elevate the dish if preferred. • Onion Powder – Adds savory depth; shallot powder works well as an alternative. • Paprika – Contributes warmth and color; consider smoked paprika for a unique twist. • Salt & Black Pepper – Essential seasonings for taste; adjust to your liking. Optional Ingredients • Cayenne Pepper – For those who enjoy a kick; a little goes a long way! • Oil Spray – A light mist before baking promotes extra crispiness. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crispy Mustard Chicken Tenders Step 1: Preheat Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure the best crispiness for your tenders. This preparation step is essential for achieving perfectly baked, crispy Mustard Chicken Tenders, so don’t skip it! Step 2: Prepare Marinade In a medium bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard and honey until smooth and well combined. This mixture serves as the flavorful marinade for your chicken, infusing each bite with that delightful sweet-and-tangy flavor. Set this bowl aside, allowing the flavors to meld while you prepare the coating. Step 3: Mix Coating Ingredients In a shallow dish, combine the breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly to ensure the spices are evenly distributed throughout the breadcrumbs. This seasoned breadcrumb coating will provide the crispy texture you desire in your Crispy Mustard Chicken Tenders, contributing to both taste and visual appeal. Step 4: Set Up Dipping Stations Create three dipping stations on your countertop: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with your seasoned breadcrumb mixture. Arranging these stations will streamline the breading process, making it easy to coat each chicken strip thoroughly and achieve that signature crunch of chicken tenders. Step 5: Coat the Chicken Take each chicken strip and dip it first into the flour, shaking off any excess. Next, plunge it into the beaten eggs to ensure a sticky surface, followed by a generous coating of the breadcrumb mixture, pressing down gently to help it adhere. This multi-step coating process is crucial for achieving the delicious texture of your Mustard Chicken Tenders. Step 6: Arrange on Baking Sheet Place your coated chicken tenders onto the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are evenly spaced without touching each other. For an extra crunch, lightly spray or drizzle oil over the tenders. This not only enhances the crispiness but also ensures even browning as they bake to perfection. Step 7: Bake Tenders Bake the chicken tenders in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes. Flip them halfway through the cooking time to ensure they cook evenly and develop that golden-brown color all around. Keep a close eye on them during the last few minutes; they’re ready when crispy and cooked through! Step 8: Cool Before Serving Once out of the oven, let your Crispy Mustard Chicken Tenders cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet. This brief resting period allows the coating to stay crisp while the internal juices settle, making each bite tender and flavorful. Serve warm alongside your favorite dipping sauces for a delightful meal! Expert Tips for Crispy Mustard Chicken Tenders Watch for Browning: Keep an eye on the tenders as they bake. A perfect golden-brown color means they are crispy and ready to enjoy! Ensure Thorough Coating: Dip the chicken strips thoroughly into each coating station. This helps achieve the best adherence and maximizes the crunchy texture of your Mustard Chicken Tenders. Opt for Quality Breadcrumbs: Using fresh or high-quality breadcrumbs will elevate your tenders. Avoid stale crumbs to ensure maximum crispiness and flavor. Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add spices like cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture for a bit of heat. It can enhance the overall taste profile. Use Parchment Paper: Line your baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier—this step guarantees beautifully crispy tenders every time! Mustard Chicken Tenders Variations Ready to take your Mustard Chicken Tenders to the next level? Explore these delicious tweaks that will elevate your dish while keeping it fun and flavorful! Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to ensure everyone can enjoy this crispy delight without worries. Vegan Twist: Substitute chicken with firm tofu or cauliflower for a plant-based option that pairs beautifully with the tangy marinade. Bolder Flavor: Add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture to bring some heat to your tenders. The spice level can be easily adjusted for different tastes. Herbed Goodness: Mix in fresh or dried herbs like thyme or rosemary into your breadcrumb coating for an aromatic twist that enhances flavor. Zesty Citrus: Add lemon or lime zest to the marinade or the breadcrumb mixture for a refreshing citrusy note. Extra Crispy: Double-coat your tenders by dipping them back into the egg and repeating the breadcrumb process. This will create an even crunchier exterior, perfect for those who love texture! Sweet and Spicy Dipping Sauce: Whip up a quick dipping sauce by combining honey with a touch of sriracha. This sweet and spicy contrast will complement the tenders beautifully. Air Fryer Option: For a faster and crispier result, try air frying your tenders. Cook at 390°F (200°C) for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through for a delicious outcome. These variations can breathe new life into your Crispy Mustard Chicken Tenders. If you’re looking for more meal inspiration, consider trying out other family favorites like Honey BBQ Chicken Penne or enjoy the unique flavors of Bang Bang Chicken! What to Serve with Crispy Mustard Chicken Tenders Sprucing up your meal with delightful sides can elevate the experience of enjoying these crunchy tenders. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Rich and velvety, they provide a comforting contrast to the crispiness of the tenders. Garlic Roasted Broccoli: A touch of char and savory flavor from roasted broccoli adds a healthy pop of green to your plate. Coleslaw with a Zing: Tangy and refreshing, this crunchy side brightens the palette and complements the mustard’s sharpness beautifully. Sweet Potato Fries: Their natural sweetness balances the savory notes of the tenders, creating an irresistible pairing of flavors. Honey Mustard Dipping Sauce: Double down on flavor with a side of this sauce, echoing the mustard in the chicken for perfect harmony. Sparkling Lemonade: This bubbly, citrusy drink quenches thirst and adds a refreshing twist to your meal. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet, smoky, and buttery, grilled corn makes every bite of your meal feel like a summer celebration! Chocolate Chip Cookies: End on a sweet note with warm cookies, bringing a delightful contrast to the savory chicken experience. How to Store and Freeze Crispy Mustard Chicken Tenders Fridge: Store cooked tenders in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze uncooked, coated tenders in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. They’ll last up to 3 months. Reheating: To retain crispiness, reheat cooked tenders in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes until warmed through. Make-Ahead: Prepare and coat your Mustard Chicken Tenders ahead of time, then refrigerate them until ready to bake for a quick weeknight meal! Make Ahead Options Crispy Mustard Chicken Tenders are perfect for busy weeknights and can be prepped up to 24 hours in advance to save you time. To get started, coat the chicken strips as per the recipe instructions, then place them on a baking sheet and cover with plastic wrap before refrigerating. This not only keeps the tenders fresh but also helps the flavors meld beautifully. When you’re ready to bake, simply preheat the oven and place the cold tenders straight onto the baking sheet, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time. You’ll enjoy the same great taste with minimal effort, making dinner a breeze! Crispy Mustard Chicken Tenders Recipe FAQs What kind of chicken is best for mustard chicken tenders? I recommend using boneless chicken breasts for the most tender and juicy results. If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs can work beautifully too, adding a bit more moisture and flavor. How do I know if the Dijon mustard is ripe for use? Ideally, you want to use fresh Dijon mustard that isn’t too old. Check for any off-smell or separation. It should smell tangy and have a smooth consistency. If you notice any dark spots or a change in texture, it’s best to toss it! How long can I store cooked mustard chicken tenders? Cooked tenders can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This will help keep them fresh and delicious. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes for best results. Can I freeze uncooked coated chicken tenders? Absolutely! To freeze uncooked, coated tenders, lay them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze them individually first. Once they’re frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored this way for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to cook, bake them from frozen, adding an additional 5-10 minutes to the cooking time! Do these tenders contain any common allergens? These Crispy Mustard Chicken Tenders are generally safe for adults and kids alike, but watch out for any allergies to chicken, eggs (in the egg wash), or gluten (if not using gluten-free breadcrumbs). Always double-check ingredient labels to ensure they meet your dietary needs! What if my tenders aren’t getting crispy? If your tenders aren’t achieving the desired crispiness, make sure they are spaced adequately on the baking sheet to allow air circulation. Additionally, lightly spraying them with oil before baking really promotes that crunch! If they start to brown too quickly, consider lowering your oven temperature slightly or covering them loosely with foil. Crispy Mustard Chicken Tenders for Easy Weeknight Meals Crispy Mustard Chicken Tenders are a flavorful, guilt-free option for busy weeknights, offering quick preparation and delicious taste. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 20 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsCooling Time 5 minutes minsTotal Time 45 minutes mins Servings: 4 tendersCourse: DinnerCuisine: AmericanCalories: 250 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken Tenders1 pound Chicken Breast Boneless for easy preparation1/4 cup Dijon Mustard Use a quality brand for best flavor2 tablespoons Honey Can be substituted with maple syrup for a vegan optionFor the Coating1 cup Breadcrumbs Opt for gluten-free breadcrumbs for gluten-free diets1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Fresh minced garlic can elevate the dish1 teaspoon Onion Powder Shallot powder works well as an alternative1 teaspoon Paprika Consider smoked paprika for a unique twist1 teaspoon Salt Adjust to your liking1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper Adjust to your likingOptional Ingredients1/4 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper For those who enjoy a kickas needed Oil Spray A light mist before baking promotes extra crispiness Equipment OvenBaking sheetParchment papermedium bowlShallow Dish Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.In a medium bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard and honey until smooth.In a shallow dish, combine the breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly.Create three dipping stations: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with your seasoned breadcrumb mixture.Dip each chicken strip first into the flour, then into the beaten eggs, and lastly into the breadcrumb mixture.Place your coated chicken tenders onto the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are evenly spaced.Bake the chicken tenders for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.Let your tenders cool for a few minutes before serving with your favorite dipping sauces. Nutrition Serving: 1tenderCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 28gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 1gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 1mg NotesStore cooked tenders in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze uncooked, coated tenders for up to 3 months. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
