There’s something irresistible about the golden crunch of perfectly cooked chicken tenders, especially when they’re laced with a tangy honey mustard glaze that hits all the right notes. After countless attempts to find a homemade alternative to fast food favorites, I finally nailed this Honey Mustard Chicken Tenders recipe that’s bursting with flavor but surprisingly simple to make. Whether you’re cooking for a quick weeknight dinner or craving a crowd-pleasing appetizer, these tenders blend sweet, savory, and zesty in every bite. Stay with me, and I’ll show you how to transform humble chicken strips into a mouthwatering dish that feels like a treat—without the hassle or takeout guilt!
Why choose Honey Mustard Chicken Tenders?
Irresistible Flavor: This recipe balances sweet honey and tangy mustard perfectly for a mouthwatering taste. Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, ideal for busy weeknights. Juicy & Crispy: Achieves the perfect tender inside with a golden, crunchy coating. Versatile Crowd-Pleaser: Great as a main dish or appetizer that everyone will love. Homemade Goodness: Skip fast food guilt with fresh, wholesome ingredients at home.
Honey Mustard Chicken Tenders Ingredients
For the Chicken Tenders
- Chicken tenders – Choose fresh, skinless strips to ensure juicy, tender bites.
- All-purpose flour – Helps create a crispy coating that locks in moisture.
- Eggs – Act as a binder for the breading to stick perfectly.
- Panko breadcrumbs – Use for extra crunch; you can substitute with crushed cornflakes if preferred.
- Salt & black pepper – Season simply to enhance natural chicken flavor.
- Garlic powder – Adds a subtle savory depth that complements the honey mustard glaze.
For the Honey Mustard Sauce
- Honey – The star sweetener that balances the tang in the sauce.
- Dijon mustard – Provides a smooth, tangy kick essential to classic honey mustard.
- Mayonnaise – Creates a creamy texture for coating the tenders.
- Apple cider vinegar – Adds gentle acidity to brighten the sauce.
- Smoked paprika – Optional but recommended for a warm, smoky undertone in the honey mustard chicken tenders.
How to Make Honey Mustard Chicken Tenders
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a lightly greased rack for even crisping and easy cleanup.
- Pat & Season chicken tenders dry, then sprinkle with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Dredge each piece in all-purpose flour for a light, seasoned base.
- Dip each floured tender into beaten eggs until evenly coated and let any excess drip off for cleaner handling and better breadcrumb adhesion.
- Coat the egg-washed tenders with panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure a generous, even layer that bakes into a golden, crunchy crust.
- Bake tenders on the prepared sheet at 400°F (200°C) for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway, until crisp, golden brown, and the internal temperature hits 165°F.
- For the Honey Mustard Sauce:
- Whisk honey, Dijon mustard, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and smoked paprika in a medium bowl until smooth, creamy, and vibrantly golden.
- Serve the hot tenders on a platter, drizzling with sauce or serving it for dipping. Garnish with chopped parsley for color.
Optional: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce for a spicy kick.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Variations & Substitutions for Honey Mustard Chicken Tenders
Feel free to put your unique twist on these delightful chicken tenders with these fun and enticing variations!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour and panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives for a delicious gluten-free option. You won’t sacrifice any crunch or flavor!
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Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper to both the chicken coating and the honey mustard sauce for a fiery twist. The heat balances beautifully with the sweetness!
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Herb-Infused: Incorporate fresh herbs like parsley or thyme into the breadcrumb coating for an aromatic twist that brightens every bite. The fresh flavors elevate the dish, making it feel even more special.
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Baked vs. Fried: If you’re craving that deep-fried crunch, consider frying the chicken tenders in hot oil until golden brown, ensuring a crispy crust that will have everyone asking for seconds. The texture can be utterly irresistible!
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Honey Alternates: Experiment with maple syrup or agave nectar in place of honey for a different sweet twist. Each brings its own unique flavor profile that pairs beautifully with the mustard!
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Crispy Alternative: Instead of panko, use crushed potato chips or cornflakes as a coating for an extra crunch. The unique textures can create an unexpectedly delightful bite!
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Vegetarian Twist: Swap chicken for sliced zucchini or eggplant, breading and baking it the same way for a tasty vegetarian alternative. The honey mustard sauce keeps it flavorful!
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Low-Calorie: Use a low-calorie spray or brush of oil instead of the egg to bind your coating, helping to lower the overall calories while still keeping the flavor intact. Healthy can be delicious too!
Make Ahead Options
These Honey Mustard Chicken Tenders are a fantastic choice for meal prep, letting you savor homemade deliciousness even on your busiest days! You can prepare the chicken tenders (without baking) and the honey mustard sauce up to 24 hours in advance. Simply coat the chicken strips in flour, egg, and panko, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. The sauce can be whisked together and refrigerated as well, ensuring bold flavor for dipping. When you’re ready to serve, just pop the tender-coated strips in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15–18 minutes until golden. This way, you can enjoy perfectly crispy and juicy honey mustard chicken tenders without the last-minute rush!
What to Serve with Honey Mustard Chicken Tenders?
Delight your family and friends with a well-rounded meal that perfectly complements these crispy, golden bites.
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Creamy Coleslaw: This cool, crunchy side is a refreshing counterpart, adding texture and a hint of zest that elevates every bite.
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Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery, this classic side brings comfort and a rich, savory flavor that balances the sweetness of the chicken.
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Roasted Vegetables: Colorful and flavorful veggies like carrots and bell peppers offer a nutritious, sweet contrast to the tender chicken.
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Corn on the Cob: Sweet, juicy corn is the ultimate summer side, adding brightness while being easy to prepare and enjoy.
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Honey Mustard Dipping Sauce: Extra sauce on the side ensures every bite stays flavorful and your guests can customize their dipping experience.
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Lemonade: A refreshing drink, this bright beverage cuts through the richness of the chicken, providing a zesty, uplifting twist.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: End your meal on a sweet note. The warm, gooey cookies serve as the perfect indulgent treat after the savory tenders.
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Garden Salad: A light salad filled with fresh greens and a tangy vinaigrette brings an element of freshness that beautifully complements the meal.
Tips for the Best Honey Mustard Chicken Tenders
- Use Fresh Chicken: Always choose fresh, skinless chicken tenders for juicy, tender results that soak up the honey mustard flavor beautifully.
- Pat Dry Thoroughly: Dry chicken strips well before coating to ensure the flour and breadcrumbs stick properly and create that perfect crispy crust.
- Even Breading: Dip tenders evenly in flour, egg, and panko layers to avoid bare spots and ensure a golden, crunchy finish every time.
- Don’t Skip the Flip: Baking with a flip halfway through helps both sides turn crisp and gorgeous, preventing any soggy edges.
- Sauce Balance: Adjust honey and mustard quantities based on your sweetness and tang preference for the ideal honey mustard chicken tenders glaze.
- Watch Baking Time: Overcooking dries tenders; bake just until the internal temperature reaches 165°F for juicy, tender bites.
How to Store and Freeze Honey Mustard Chicken Tenders
Fridge: Store leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze cooked chicken tenders in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through, ensuring they stay crispy.
Freshness Tip: Always ensure tenders cool completely before storing to prevent moisture buildup that can make them soggy.
Best Honey Mustard Chicken Tenders Recipe for Juicy, Crispy Bites Recipe FAQs
How do I know if my chicken tenders are fresh enough for this recipe?
Fresh chicken tenders should be pale pink with no dark spots or unpleasant odor. Avoid any strips that look slimy or have dark spots all over, as these are signs of spoilage. I recommend buying from a trusted butcher or grocery store and using them within 1-2 days of purchase for the best flavor and texture.
What’s the best way to store leftover honey mustard chicken tenders?
Store your cooked chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator where they’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. Be sure to let them cool completely before sealing to avoid sogginess. For the best texture when reheating, pop them in the oven instead of the microwave; this keeps their delightful crunch intact!
Can I freeze honey mustard chicken tenders, and how should I do it?
Absolutely! Freezing is a great way to enjoy these tenders later. After cooking, allow them to cool fully, then arrange in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 1-2 hours. Once frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe zip-top bag or airtight container. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, bake directly from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes until heated through and crispy!
What if the breading falls off during baking—how can I prevent this?
This is a common baking hiccup! Make sure you pat your chicken tenders dry before dredging in flour to help the coatings stick better. Dip them fully in beaten eggs so the breadcrumbs adhere evenly, and press the panko gently but firmly onto each tender. Also, avoid moving them around too much on the baking sheet before and during the initial bake to allow the crust to set properly.
Are honey mustard chicken tenders safe for pets if I want to share a bite?
It’s best not to share these with your furry friends. The honey mustard sauce contains ingredients like garlic powder, smoked paprika, and apple cider vinegar, which can be harmful to pets. Keep their treats simple and pet-safe, saving the tasty chicken only for your plate!
Best Honey Mustard Chicken Tenders Recipe for Juicy, Crispy Bites
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a lightly greased rack.
- Pat chicken tenders dry and season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Dredge in all-purpose flour.
- Dip each floured tender into beaten eggs until coated, letting excess drip off.
- Coat with panko breadcrumbs, pressing to ensure a generous layer.
- Bake tenders on the prepared sheet for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and cooked through.
- Whisk honey, Dijon mustard, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and smoked paprika until smooth.
- Serve hot tenders with sauce for drizzling or dipping.
