How to create tangy honey mustard chicken tenders

How to create tangy honey mustard chicken tenders

How to Create Tangy Honey Mustard Chicken Tenders

Chicken tenders are loved by all, from kids to adults, especially when they’re packed with a tangy, flavorful kick. Honey mustard chicken tenders combine sweet, zesty, and savory flavors for a dish that’s simple to make yet truly irresistible. Whether you’re planning a casual family dinner or a fun gathering with friends, this recipe will be a hit. The best part? It requires only a few ingredients and minimal prep time! In this blog, we’ll share how to make tangy honey mustard chicken tenders step by step in simple English.


Ingredients You’ll Need

Before jumping into the cooking process, gather everything you need:

  • For the Chicken:
  • 1 lb (or about 450-500 grams) of chicken tenders or boneless chicken strips
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (regular or panko for extra crunch)
  • Salt and pepper (to taste)

  • For the Honey Mustard Sauce:

  • 3 tablespoons honey
  • 3 tablespoons mustard (yellow, Dijon, or spicy mustard work—choose your favorite)
  • 1 tablespoon mayonnaise (optional but adds extra creaminess)
  • 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice (for the tangy twist)
  • A dash of garlic powder (optional, for added flavor)

Step 1: Prepare the Honey Mustard Sauce

Let’s start by making the sauce since it’s the star of this recipe. In a small bowl, combine the honey, mustard, mayonnaise (if using), apple cider vinegar or lemon juice, and garlic powder. Mix everything together until smooth and well combined.

Taste the sauce and adjust as needed. If you want it sweeter, add a little more honey. For extra tanginess, mix in a touch more mustard or a splash of vinegar. Set the sauce aside—you’ll need it later both for coating the chicken and for dipping.


Step 2: Prep Your Ingredients

For crispy chicken tenders, you’ll need three coating layers: flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs.

  1. Set up a “dredging station”: Prepare three bowls or shallow plates.
  2. Bowl 1: Add the flour, along with a pinch of salt and pepper for seasoning.
  3. Bowl 2: Whisk the eggs until fully beaten.
  4. Bowl 3: Spread out the breadcrumbs.

  5. Pat the chicken dry: Before coating, use a paper towel to pat the chicken tenders dry. Removing moisture will help the coatings stick better.


Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Now the fun part: coating the chicken!

  1. First layer: Take a chicken strip and roll it in the flour, making sure it’s coated evenly on all sides. Shake off any excess flour.
  2. Second layer: Dip the floured chicken strip into the beaten eggs. Coat it completely, but let any excess egg drip off.
  3. Third layer: Press the chicken into the breadcrumbs, turning it to cover all sides. The breadcrumbs give it a crunchy texture, so take your time to ensure every part is covered.

Repeat this process for all the chicken strips.


Step 4: Cook the Chicken

You can cook your honey mustard chicken tenders by frying, baking, or air-frying—choose the method that works best for you!

  • Frying: Heat about 1 inch of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the coated tenders for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
  • Baking: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the tenders on a greased baking tray and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until crispy.
  • Air-Frying: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Spray the basket and chicken with cooking oil, then air-fry for 10-12 minutes, turning once, until crispy.

No matter the method, ensure the chicken is fully cooked and its internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).


Step 5: Coat with Honey Mustard Sauce

Once the chicken tenders are cooked, place them in a bowl. Drizzle some of the honey mustard sauce over the tenders and toss gently to coat. You can serve them lightly glazed or save the sauce for dipping—either way, they’ll taste amazing!


Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Plate your tangy honey mustard chicken tenders and serve them alongside your favorite sides. They pair wonderfully with fries, a fresh salad, or roasted vegetables. Don’t forget a small bowl of extra honey mustard sauce for dipping—it’s the perfect finishing touch!


Pro Tips for the Best Results

  • Extra Crunch: Try using panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs for ultimate crispiness.
  • Customize the Sauce: Add a pinch of chili flakes or hot sauce for a spicy kick!
  • Healthy Option: Use whole wheat breadcrumbs or bake/air-fry the tenders to make them lighter.

Honey mustard chicken tenders are easy, delicious, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is straightforward and delivers excellent results. With the tangy sweetness of honey mustard sauce and the crispy tenderness of the chicken, this dish will surely become a favorite in your household. Give it a try and watch your family and friends come back for seconds (or even thirds)!

Happy cooking and enjoy your tangy honey mustard chicken tenders!

Leave a Comment

Comments

No comments yet. Why don’t you start the discussion?

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *