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When it comes to family-friendly meals, few dishes can compete with the classic comfort of homemade chicken tenders. Their universal appeal makes them a favorite among both kids and adults, and their versatility allows them to shine in any dining setting, from casual weeknight dinners to festive gatherings. The Golden Crunch Chicken Tenders paired with a Sweet & Zesty Honey Mustard Dip elevate this beloved dish, offering a delightful balance of crunchy texture and an explosion of zesty flavor that will leave everyone craving more.

Crispy Chicken Tenders with Honey Mustard Dip

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with these Golden Crunch Chicken Tenders paired with a Sweet & Zesty Honey Mustard Dip. This family-friendly recipe transforms classic chicken tenders into a crunchy delight that appeals to all ages. With simple ingredients like high-quality chicken, buttermilk, and panko breadcrumbs, you can create a flavorful meal tailored to your tastes. Serve these tenders at weeknight dinners or festive gatherings for a satisfying dish everyone will love. Explore the perfect balance of crispy texture and zesty flavor today!
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Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Tenders:

1 lb (450g) chicken breast, sliced into strips

1 cup buttermilk

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 cup panko breadcrumbs

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for spice preference)

Vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Honey Mustard Dip:

1/4 cup honey

1/4 cup Dijon mustard

1 tablespoon mayonnaise

1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken strips, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour (or up to overnight).

    Prepare the Breading Station: Set up three shallow dishes. In the first, add the flour seasoned with a pinch of salt and pepper. In the second, pour the remaining buttermilk (if leftover) or another egg (whisked). In the third, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, dried oregano, and cayenne pepper.

      Coat the Chicken: Remove each chicken strip from the marinade, shaking off excess. Dredge it in the flour, dip in buttermilk, and finally coat with the panko mixture, pressing slightly to adhere the breadcrumbs. Place on a plate.

        Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).

          Fry the Tenders: Carefully add the breaded chicken tenders to the hot oil, working in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to transfer cooked tenders to a wire rack lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.

            Make the Honey Mustard Dip: In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, Dijon mustard, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper until smooth. Adjust seasoning to your taste.

              Serve and Enjoy: Plate the crispy chicken tenders with a small bowl of the honey mustard dip on the side. Pair with your favorite sides like fries or a fresh salad.

                Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes | Servings: 4