Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders with Creamy Mustard Dip

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Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders with Creamy Mustard Dip are the perfect balance of crunch and flavor, making them an irresistible meal for any occasion. These tenders are coated in a seasoned, golden-brown crust that delivers the satisfying crispiness of fried chicken—without the excess oil. Every bite is packed with smoky, slightly spicy flavors, and when dipped into the rich and tangy mustard sauce, they become truly addictive. Whether you’re serving them as a game-day snack, a family-friendly dinner, or a quick protein-packed meal, these tenders are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.

The magic of this recipe lies in its simple yet powerful combination of ingredients. The chicken is coated in a flavorful blend of spices before being baked to perfection, ensuring a crunchy exterior while keeping the inside juicy and tender. The creamy mustard dip adds an extra punch, combining smooth, slightly sweet, and mildly spicy notes that perfectly complement the crispy coating. If you’re looking for a healthier alternative to fried chicken without compromising on taste or texture, these baked tenders are a must-try.

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Ingredients for Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders with Creamy Mustard Dip

For the Chicken Tenders:

• 2 large chicken breasts, cut into strips
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 2 tablespoons milk

For the Creamy Mustard Dip:

• ¼ cup Dijon mustard
• ¼ cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon honey
• ½ teaspoon lemon juice
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon whole-grain mustard (optional, for texture)

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Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking. Cut the chicken breasts into even strips, about 1 inch wide, to ensure they cook evenly. Pat them dry with a paper towel to help the coating adhere better.

Step 2: Set Up the Breading Station

In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until well combined. In another shallow dish, mix the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. This combination will create a crispy, flavorful coating for the chicken.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Dip each chicken strip into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off. Then, coat it thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure an even layer. Place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between them to allow for even cooking.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Lightly spray the tenders with cooking spray or drizzle with a small amount of olive oil to enhance crispiness. Bake in the preheated oven for 18–22 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the tenders are golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).

Step 5: Make the Creamy Mustard Dip

While the chicken is baking, whisk together the Dijon mustard, mayonnaise, honey, lemon juice, black pepper, garlic powder, and whole-grain mustard in a small bowl. Adjust seasoning to taste, adding more honey for sweetness or mustard for tanginess.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once the chicken tenders are golden and crispy, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Serve with the creamy mustard dip on the side, garnished with fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy these flavorful, crunchy tenders as a main dish, appetizer, or snack!

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Storage Instructions

To store leftover crispy baked chicken tenders, allow them to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They will stay fresh for up to 2 months.

To reheat, bake in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 10–12 minutes or until heated through and crispy again. If reheating from frozen, bake for an additional 5 minutes. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make the tenders soggy.

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Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving)

Serving Size: 3–4 tenders with dip

• Calories: ~320
• Protein: ~30g
• Carbohydrates: ~20g
• Fat: ~12g
• Fiber: ~2g
• Sugar: ~3g
• Sodium: ~450mg

(Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.)

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes! Chicken thighs will work just as well. They may take a few extra minutes to cook, so check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

2. Can I make these tenders gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free panko or crushed gluten-free cornflakes for a similar crispy texture.

3. How can I make the tenders extra crispy?

Spraying the coated tenders with a little cooking spray before baking helps them crisp up. You can also place them on a wire rack over a baking sheet to allow air to circulate around them.

4. Can I air-fry these instead of baking?

Yes! Air-fry at 375°F (190°C) for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and cooked through.

5. What can I serve with these chicken tenders?

They pair well with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, sweet potato fries, or even a side of coleslaw.

6. Can I use a different dipping sauce?

Of course! Ranch, BBQ sauce, honey mustard, or spicy sriracha mayo are great alternatives.

7. How do I prevent the breading from falling off?

Press the breadcrumbs firmly onto the chicken, and make sure to pat the chicken dry before coating. Letting the coated tenders rest for 5–10 minutes before baking can also help the breading adhere better.

8. Can I prep these ahead of time?

Yes! You can coat the chicken tenders and refrigerate them for up to 8 hours before baking. If freezing, coat the tenders and freeze them raw, then bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

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