Crispy Mustard Chicken Tenders are not just a meal; they’re an experience. Imagine biting into a tender, juicy chicken strip coated in a crunchy mustard breadcrumb crust. The aroma wafts through the air, teasing your taste buds as you anticipate that first glorious bite. Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a fun-filled gathering with friends, these tenders promise to be the star of your table.
The best part? They’re super easy to whip up! I remember the first time I made these for my family; I was convinced they’d never let me cook again if they didn’t like them. To my surprise, they devoured every last piece and begged for more. Trust me when I say that Crispy Mustard Chicken Tenders will become a cherished recipe in your household too!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, making weeknight meals stress-free.
- The bold flavors of mustard and spices create an irresistible taste sensation.
- Visually appealing with golden brown colors that catch the eye and excite the appetite.
- Versatile enough to serve as an appetizer, main dish, or even in salads and wraps.
Ingredients for Crispy Mustard Chicken Tenders
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 breasts are ideal for this recipe, but feel free to adjust based on how hungry everyone is!
- Yellow Mustard: This adds tangy flavor and helps the breadcrumbs stick, so don’t skip it!
- Panko Breadcrumbs: These Japanese-style breadcrumbs create an ultra-crispy coating—perfect for that crunch factor.
- Garlic Powder: A staple in seasoning these tenders, it brings depth and flavor without overpowering.
- Onion Powder: Adds a subtle sweetness; trust me; it’s worth it!
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance all other flavors—don’t be shy!
For the Sauce:
- Honey: For those who love a sweet kick to balance the mustard’s tanginess.
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 400°F (200°C). While waiting, spray a baking sheet with nonstick cooking spray to keep those tenders from sticking like a bad breakup.
Step 2: Prepare Your Chicken
Cut the boneless chicken breasts into strips about one inch wide—think chicken fingers but way better! Season them with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 3: Get Saucy
In a bowl, mix yellow mustard with garlic powder and onion powder until combined nicely. You want it smooth but not too runny—like your morning coffee!
Step 4: Coat Those Bad Boys
Dunk each chicken strip into your mustard mixture, ensuring it’s well-coated before rolling it in panko breadcrumbs. Place them on your prepared baking sheet like little soldiers ready for battle.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden
Bake those beauties in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until they’re golden brown and crispy. Flip them halfway through so both sides get that glorious crunch.
Step 6: Whip Up Quick Sauce
While they’re baking, mix honey with a touch of mustard in a small bowl for dipping sauce. It’s sweet meets savory perfection that everyone will fight over!
Transfer to plates once baked and drizzle with your honey-mustard sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Get ready for compliments and requests for seconds!
You Must Know
- This amazing crispy mustard chicken tenders recipe offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
- Perfect for frying but versatile enough for baking or air-frying.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating the chicken in a delicious mustard blend while preheating your oven or oil for frying. Then, bread the tenders and cook them until golden brown, ensuring they are juicy inside. It’s all about timing!
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out regular mustard for spicy Dijon or honey mustard for a sweet twist. Toss in some herbs like thyme or rosemary, or add crushed red pepper flakes for a kick that will make your taste buds dance!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover crispy mustard chicken tenders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For reheating, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to restore their crunchiness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken tenders reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe eating.
- Pat the chicken dry before marinating to help the coating stick better.
- Let the tenders rest after cooking; this keeps them juicy and flavorful.
It was a rainy Sunday afternoon when I decided to whip up these crispy mustard chicken tenders. My friends were skeptical at first, but one bite had them begging for seconds! Who knew that mustard could turn into such a crowd-pleaser?
FAQs
What are Crispy Mustard Chicken Tenders?
Crispy Mustard Chicken Tenders are a delicious and easy-to-make dish that features tender pieces of chicken coated in a flavorful mustard marinade. This combination creates a crispy outer layer, giving each bite an irresistible crunch. They are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as an appetizer for gatherings. The unique flavor of mustard enhances the chicken, making it a favorite among both kids and adults.
How do I make the chicken tenders extra crispy?
To achieve extra crispy Crispy Mustard Chicken Tenders, ensure you coat the chicken well with a mixture of breadcrumbs and seasonings. Additionally, consider double-dipping: first in flour, then in mustard, followed by breadcrumbs. For even better results, bake them on a wire rack placed over a baking sheet; this allows air to circulate around the tenders, resulting in a crunchier texture.
Can I use other types of mustard?
Absolutely! While Dijon mustard is commonly used for Crispy Mustard Chicken Tenders due to its sharp flavor, you can experiment with other types such as honey mustard or whole grain mustard. Each variety will impart its unique taste to the dish, allowing you to customize it according to your preference and create new flavor profiles.
What sides pair well with Crispy Mustard Chicken Tenders?
Crispy Mustard Chicken Tenders pair wonderfully with various sides. Consider serving them alongside classic options like coleslaw or French fries for a casual meal. Alternatively, fresh vegetables or a light salad can complement the dish beautifully if you’re aiming for something healthier. The tangy flavor of the tenders blends nicely with both rich and zesty side dishes.
Conclusion for Crispy Mustard Chicken Tenders
Crispy Mustard Chicken Tenders offer a delightful fusion of flavors and textures that will please any palate. By marinating the chicken in mustard and coating it with breadcrumbs, you create an irresistible crunch that elevates this simple dish. Whether served as a main course or appetizer, these tenders are sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy experimenting with different mustards and sides to make this recipe your own!
Crispy Mustard Chicken Tenders
Crispy Mustard Chicken Tenders deliver a delightful crunch and zesty flavor that will elevate your meal experience. Coated in a tangy mustard breadcrumb mix, these juicy chicken strips are perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests. With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a dish that’s both impressive and incredibly satisfying. Serve them with a sweet honey-mustard dipping sauce to take the flavor to the next level!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 1/2 cup yellow mustard
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup honey
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking sheet with nonstick spray.
- Cut chicken breasts into strips about one inch wide; season with salt and pepper.
- In a bowl, mix yellow mustard, garlic powder, and onion powder until smooth.
- Coat each chicken strip in the mustard mixture, then roll it in panko breadcrumbs.
- Arrange on the baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway through.
- While baking, mix honey with a bit of mustard for dipping sauce.
- Serve hot with the honey-mustard sauce drizzled on top.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 tenders (150g)
- Calories: 330
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: - For extra crunch, double-dip the chicken in flour before the mustard and breadcrumbs. - Try using spicy Dijon or whole grain mustard for different flavor profiles. - Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
