Crispy Chicken Tenders with Honey Mustard Dip

When it comes to chicken tenders, chicken breasts are typically the go-to choice. They are lean, tender, and have a mild flavor that can easily absorb seasonings. Selecting fresh chicken is crucial for creating the best tenders possible. Look for chicken breasts that are pale in color, plump, and free from any blemishes. The texture should be firm to the touch, indicating freshness.

Transform your meal with these mouthwatering crunchy chicken tenders paired with a homemade honey mustard dip. This recipe delivers juicy, flavorful chicken with a satisfying crunch, perfect for family dinners or game day snacks. Discover the secrets of marination and coating, ensuring every bite is a delight. Elevate your dining experience with creative serving ideas and delicious beverage pairings. Dive into this culinary adventure and impress your loved ones with your cooking skills!

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Ingredients

For the Chicken Tenders:

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

1 cup buttermilk

1 teaspoon paprika

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 ½ cups panko breadcrumbs

½ teaspoon dried thyme

½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

Vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Honey Mustard Dip:

½ cup mayonnaise

¼ cup honey

3 tablespoons Dijon mustard

1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken:

In a large bowl, combine the buttermilk, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Add the sliced chicken tenders, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight for best flavor).

Prepare the Coating:

In one shallow dish, place the all-purpose flour. In another shallow dish, mix the panko breadcrumbs with dried thyme and cayenne pepper. You may also add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.

Coat the Chicken:

Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess buttermilk to drip off. For each piece, first dredge it in the flour, shaking off any excess. Then dip it back into the buttermilk briefly before coating it in the panko mixture, pressing gently to ensure the breadcrumbs stick well. Place the coated tenders on a plate.

Fry the Chicken:

In a large skillet, pour about ½ inch of vegetable oil and heat over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Carefully add the coated chicken tenders in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Use a thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Drain the fried tenders on a plate lined with paper towels.

Make the Honey Mustard Dip:

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

Serve and Enjoy:

Arrange the crispy chicken tenders on a platter and serve hot with the honey mustard dip on the side. Pair with your favorite sides like coleslaw or sweet potato fries for a complete meal.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes (includes marinating) | Servings: 4