Crispy Mustard Chicken Tenders: Irresistibly Crunchy Delight

Crispy Mustard Chicken Tenders are the kind of dish that makes your taste buds dance with joy. Imagine biting into golden, crunchy tenders infused with a zesty mustard flavor that makes your mouth water. The aroma wafting from the oven can turn any ordinary kitchen into a bustling gourmet restaurant.

I remember the first time I made these chicken tenders for my family. It was a chaotic weeknight, and I had no idea what to cook. As I pulled out the mustard, I thought, why not? Let’s get crispy! To my surprise, they gobbled them up within minutes while declaring me the “Master of Chicken Tenders.” Trust me; this is the kind of meal you want in your repertoire for family dinners or impromptu parties.

Ingredients for Crispy Mustard Chicken Tenders

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 1-2 pounds of chicken breasts work perfectly for this recipe—tender and juicy every time.
• Yellow Mustard: This adds that zingy flavor; don’t skimp! Choose a good quality mustard to really enhance the taste.
• Panko Breadcrumbs: For that irresistible crunch! Panko breadcrumbs are lighter and crispier than regular breadcrumbs.
• Garlic Powder: A must-have spice! It adds depth and richness to the overall flavor profile without overpowering the mustard.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to elevate all the flavors in your chicken tenders.

For the Sauce:

• Honey: Adds a touch of sweetness to balance out the mustard’s tanginess—use pure honey for best results.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Crispy Mustard Chicken Tenders

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This ensures a crispy exterior while keeping the chicken tender inside. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Cut your boneless chicken breasts into strips about one inch wide. This size allows them to cook evenly while maintaining juiciness.

Step 3: Make Your Coating

In one bowl, mix yellow mustard with garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined. In another bowl, place panko breadcrumbs ready for coating.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken

Dip each chicken strip into the mustard mixture first—make sure each piece is fully coated—then roll it in panko breadcrumbs until it’s covered completely. This double-dipping technique is key for achieving maximum crunch!

Step 5: Bake

Arrange your coated tenders on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.

Step 6: Serve

Once done baking, let them cool slightly before serving. Drizzle with honey on top for an extra touch of sweetness. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce!

These Crispy Mustard Chicken Tenders bring together simplicity and flavor in one delightful dish that’s sure to be a hit at any gathering!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by marinating your chicken tenders in a delicious mustard mixture, then bread them while preheating your oven or skillet. Cook those beauties until golden brown and crispy, ensuring an even cook by flipping midway through.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to experiment with different mustards, like honey mustard for sweetness or spicy Dijon for a kick. Add herbs like rosemary or thyme to the breadcrumb mix for an aromatic twist that will elevate your crispy mustard chicken tenders!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to restore their crispiness instead of using a microwave.

I remember the first time I made crispy mustard chicken tenders; my family devoured them in record time! They raved about how delicious they were, and now it’s a go-to dish that always impresses guests.

FAQs:

What ingredients do I need for Crispy Mustard Chicken Tenders?

To make Crispy Mustard Chicken Tenders, you’ll need boneless chicken breasts, Dijon mustard, breadcrumbs, and a few spices for seasoning. The chicken should be cut into strips for even cooking. You may also want to include ingredients like olive oil or cooking spray to achieve that perfect crispy texture. These tenders are not only delicious but also simple to prepare, making them a great option for a quick dinner or game day snack.

How long should I bake Crispy Mustard Chicken Tenders?

Baking Crispy Mustard Chicken Tenders usually takes about 20 to 25 minutes at 400°F (200°C). It’s essential to flip the tenders halfway through the baking time to ensure they cook evenly and develop a golden-brown crust. For best results, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This ensures your chicken is cooked through while remaining juicy on the inside.

Can I fry Crispy Mustard Chicken Tenders instead of baking them?

Yes, you can fry Crispy Mustard Chicken Tenders if you prefer a deeper flavor and crunch. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the tenders once the oil is hot. Fry each side for about 3 to 4 minutes until they turn golden brown and crispy. Just remember that frying will add calories compared to baking, but it can yield an irresistibly crunchy texture that many love.

What can I serve with Crispy Mustard Chicken Tenders?

Crispy Mustard Chicken Tenders pair well with various side dishes. Consider serving them with fresh salads, roasted vegetables, or classic French fries for a fulfilling meal. Dipping sauces like honey mustard or ranch dressing complement these tenders beautifully. You can also serve them as part of a platter with vegetables and chips for gatherings or parties, making them an excellent choice for entertaining guests.

Conclusion for Crispy Mustard Chicken Tenders:

Crispy Mustard Chicken Tenders offer a delightful combination of flavor and crunch that everyone can enjoy. With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation steps, this dish makes weeknight dinners easy and satisfying. Whether you choose to bake or fry them, these tenders promise tasty results every time. Don’t forget to pair them with your favorite sides or dipping sauces for an even better experience. Give this recipe a try; your family will love it!

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Crispy Mustard Chicken Tenders

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Crispy Mustard Chicken Tenders are a delicious and easy-to-make dish that boasts a perfect blend of crunch and zesty flavor. These tender, golden strips of chicken are coated in a tangy mustard mixture and baked until crispy, making them an ideal choice for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Drizzled with honey for a touch of sweetness, these tenders will have everyone coming back for more. Whether served as game day snacks or family dinner, they are sure to impress!

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1.5 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup yellow mustard
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp honey (for drizzling)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Cut the chicken breasts into strips about one inch wide for even cooking.
3. In one bowl, mix yellow mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, place panko breadcrumbs.
4. Dip each chicken strip in the mustard mixture until fully coated, then roll it in panko breadcrumbs.
5. Place the coated tenders on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Drizzle honey over the baked tenders before serving.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 3 pieces (150g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 700mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: - For extra crunch, double-dip the chicken in egg before coating with breadcrumbs. - Experiment with different mustards like honey mustard or spicy Dijon for unique flavors. - Store leftover tenders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.