There’s something truly satisfying about biting into a golden, crispy chicken tender that’s tender on the inside. Recently, I decided to transform my weeknight dinner routine, and this baked chicken tenders recipe quickly became a family favorite. No more greasy takeout – these homemade tenders are bursting with flavor and are surprisingly easy to whip up!
As the delightful scent of smoked paprika and garlic fills my kitchen, I can’t help but feel proud knowing that my meal is both healthier and just as tasty as any fast-food alternative. Plus, with a zesty honey mustard dip to elevate the experience, these tenders are perfect for a casual dinner or a fun gathering with friends.
What makes this dish even more appealing is its versatility—gluten-free options are available, allowing everyone to enjoy a quick, satisfying meal. So dust off that apron and join me in crafting these crispy baked chicken tenders that are sure to impress!
Why Will You Love This Chicken Tenders Recipe?
Irresistible Flavor: These chicken tenders are seasoned to perfection with smoked paprika and garlic, delivering a burst of savory satisfaction in every bite.
Healthier Alternative: Baked instead of fried, they offer a guilt-free indulgence without compromising on taste, making them perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Quick and Easy: Whip them up in just 30 minutes; they’re as simple as they are delicious!
Crowd-Pleasing Dish: Perfect for feeding the family or impressing guests, this recipe caters to all tastes, especially when paired with that honey mustard dip.
Versatile Option: Want to adapt it for dietary needs? Gluten-free breadcrumbs work beautifully, ensuring everyone can enjoy this delightful meal.
Chicken Tenders Recipe Ingredients
• A delightful blend of flavors awaits you!
For the Marinade
- Kosher salt – Enhances flavor; you can substitute with sea salt or table salt (adjust quantity).
- Smoked paprika – Adds depth and a smoky flavor; regular paprika can be used if unavailable.
- Onion powder – Adds earthy sweetness; fresh minced onion can work as a substitute.
- Garlic powder – Provides a savory note; minced fresh garlic may replace it.
- Honey – Adds sweetness and helps with browning; agave syrup can be used for a vegan alternative.
- Buttermilk – Tenderizes the chicken; substitute with milk mixed with vinegar (1 cup + 1 tbsp vinegar).
For the Chicken Tenders
- Chicken tenderloins (or boneless skinless chicken breasts) – Main ingredient; use any cut of chicken, just adjust cooking time.
- Whole wheat Panko breadcrumbs – Adds crunch and nutrition; regular Panko works but yields a slightly different texture.
- Extra virgin olive oil – Moisture and crisping agent; can substitute with canola or vegetable oil.
- Egg whites – Binds the breadcrumbs to chicken; whole eggs can be used as well.
- Dijon mustard – Provides tanginess; yellow mustard may work in a pinch.
For the Honey Mustard Dip
- Greek yogurt – Creamy base for the dip; substitute with sour cream or mayo for a different flavor.
This chicken tenders recipe brings together the best of taste and convenience for any weeknight meal!
How to Make Crispy Chicken Tenders Recipe
-
Preheat oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your chicken tenders cook evenly and become perfectly crispy.
-
Prepare marinade: In a bowl, whisk together the kosher salt, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, buttermilk, and honey until well combined. Add the chicken tenderloins, making sure they’re fully coated. Let them marinate for 30 minutes at room temperature to absorb the flavors.
-
Mix breadcrumbs: In another dish, combine the whole wheat Panko breadcrumbs with any remaining spices. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil to moisten, ensuring a crunchy coating for your tenders.
-
Whisk egg mixture: In a separate bowl, whisk the egg whites and Dijon mustard together until frothy. This mixture will help the breadcrumbs stick beautifully to the chicken tenders.
-
Prepare baking sheet: Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top; don’t forget to coat it with cooking spray. This will allow excess moisture to escape, lending to a crispier finish.
-
Dredge chicken: Taking each marinated chicken tender, first dredge it in the egg mixture, allowing the excess to drip off. Then coat it well with the breadcrumb mixture before placing it onto the prepared wire rack.
-
Bake to perfection: Place the tray in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken tenders are golden brown and juices run clear. It’s okay to peek; the aroma alone will be enticing!
-
Mix the dip: While your chicken is baking, whip up the honey mustard dip by mixing the Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, honey, and a pinch of salt in a bowl until smooth and creamy.
Optional: Serve your chicken tenders alongside fresh veggies for a burst of color and nutrition!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Chicken Tenders Variations
Feel free to explore these fun twists and swaps to make this chicken tenders recipe your own!
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of Panko for a crispy, gluten-free delight that everyone will enjoy.
- Spicy Kick: Mix in a teaspoon of cayenne pepper with the breadcrumb mixture for a flavorful heat that elevates the dish.
- Herb-Infused: Add chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or thyme, to the breadcrumb mix for a burst of freshness and flavor.
- Parmesan Crispiness: Blend grated Parmesan cheese into the breadcrumb mixture for an extra cheesy flavor and irresistible crunch.
- Buffalo Style: Toss the baked tenders in buffalo sauce after baking for a spicy, tangy twist that pairs perfectly with ranch dressing.
- Sweet and Smoky: Replace honey with maple syrup and add a touch of liquid smoke for a sweet and smoky flavor profile that’s absolutely finger-licking.
- Coconut Crust: Use shredded coconut mixed with breadcrumbs for a tropical twist that provides texture and unique flavor when you bite in.
- Zesty Lemon: Add lemon zest to the marinade for a bright, citrusy note that beautifully complements the savory spices.
Get creative, and let your culinary imagination shine with these variations!
Storage Tips for Chicken Tenders Recipe
Fridge: Store baked chicken tenders in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chicken tenders in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag or container for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To restore their crispy texture, reheat chicken tenders in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes or in the air fryer for about 5 minutes.
Make Ahead Options
These Crispy Chicken Tenders are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during those busy weeknights! You can marinate the chicken in the buttermilk mixture up to 24 hours in advance—just be sure to keep it refrigerated to maintain juiciness and prevent any excess saltiness. Additionally, you can prepare the breadcrumb coating and honey mustard dip ahead of time, storing them separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply dredge the marinated chicken in the breadcrumb mixture and bake as instructed. This way, you’ll have mouthwatering chicken tenders ready with minimal effort, making dinner a breeze!
What to Serve with Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders with Honey Mustard Dip?
Transform your meal into a symphony of flavors with these delightful sides paired perfectly with baked chicken tenders.
-
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The velvety texture and buttery flavor harmonize beautifully with the crunchy tenders, creating a comforting classic. You can add garlic or herbs for an elevated taste that complements the dish wonderfully.
-
Fresh Veggie Platter: Vibrant carrots, celery, and bell peppers add a crisp, refreshing crunch, balancing the savory chicken tenders. Serve with a tangy dip to keep everything light and enjoyable.
-
Zesty Coleslaw: This crunchy mix of cabbage and carrots dressed in a tangy sauce adds zest to your meal, contrasting nicely with the tender chicken. It’s a crowd-pleaser that brings a bit of crunch to each bite.
-
Quinoa Salad: Nutty quinoa mixed with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a lemon vinaigrette offers a healthy, protein-packed side that pairs beautifully with the tenders. It’s light, refreshing, and perfect for soaking up any leftover honey mustard sauce.
-
Garlic Bread Sticks: Chewy, warm breadsticks infused with garlic butter make a delicious addition, ideal for dipping in that rich honey mustard sauce. The savory garlic enhances the overall flavor experience.
-
Sparkling Lemonade: A refreshing beverage like sparkling lemonade cleanses the palate with its zesty notes while complementing the richness of the chicken tenders. Perfect for a family gathering or casual dinner!
-
Classic Green Salad: Crisp greens topped with a light vinaigrette add freshness, enhancing the meal’s texture and flavor. Toss in some nuts or fruits for added crunch and complexity.
Expert Tips for the Best Chicken Tenders Recipe
-
Thorough Coating: Ensure chicken is coated evenly in both the egg and breadcrumb mixtures to achieve that perfect crispiness.
-
Marinating Time: Don’t over-marinate the chicken! 30 minutes is ideal; longer can lead to excess saltiness.
-
Consistent Temperature: Bake at 350°F for even cooking; fluctuations can result in unevenly cooked tenders.
-
Add Flavor: Consider seasoning the chicken directly with spices before coating to amplify the flavor of your chicken tenders recipe.
-
Crispy Finish: Use a wire rack on your baking sheet to allow air circulation, ensuring the tenders stay crispy while baking.
Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Look for chicken tenderloins or boneless, skinless chicken breasts that are plump and fresh. They should have a pinkish hue and minimal to no dark spots. If you’re using whole breasts, just remember to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as they will take longer to cook through.
What’s the best way to store leftover chicken tenders?
Very! Once cool, place your baked chicken tenders in an airtight container and refrigerate them for up to 3 days. To keep them crispy, I often recommend reheating them in the oven or air fryer rather than the microwave, as this helps maintain their delightful crunch.
Can I freeze these chicken tenders?
Yes, indeed! To freeze, arrange the cooked chicken tenders in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer until solid (about 1-2 hours). Then, transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, you can reheat them directly from frozen in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
What should I do if my chicken tenders turn out soggy?
No worries – it happens to the best of us! If your chicken tenders are soggy, it might be due to marinating for too long or overcrowding on the baking sheet. Next time, ensure the chicken isn’t sitting in the marinade for more than 30 minutes, and give them room to breathe on the baking rack. A wire rack helps air circulate around the tenders, keeping them crispier.
Is it possible to make this chicken tenders recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! To make these chicken tenders gluten-free, simply substitute regular Panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free Panko. You can find these at most grocery stores, and they will provide just as much crunch and flavor in your chicken tenders.
Can pets eat the chicken tenders?
Very! While it’s best to give your pets plain, unseasoned chicken as a treat, the baked chicken tenders can be a delectable option in moderation. Just be sure to skip the spices and the honey mustard dip before offering some tender bites to your furry friends!
Crispy Chicken Tenders Recipe for Healthy Weeknight Wins
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, whisk together the kosher salt, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, buttermilk, and honey. Add the chicken tenderloins and marinate for 30 minutes.
- In another dish, mix the whole wheat Panko breadcrumbs with any remaining spices and drizzle with olive oil.
- Whisk the egg whites and Dijon mustard together until frothy.
- Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top, coating it with cooking spray.
- Dredge each marinated chicken tender in the egg mixture, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through.
- Mix honey mustard dip ingredients in a bowl until smooth.