Craving extra crispy, golden-brown chicken tenders with the perfect crunch? These homemade chicken strips are packed with flavor, coated in a seasoned breadcrumb mixture, and fried to crispy perfection! Paired with a rich, sweet, and tangy honey mustard dip, this recipe will be your new go-to favorite.
Perfect for family dinners, game nights, or meal prep, these crispy chicken tenders are a faster, tastier, and healthier alternative to fast food!
✅ Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Ultra-Crispy Texture – The perfect golden crunch in every bite!
✔ Homemade Goodness – No preservatives, just fresh ingredients.
✔ Kid-Friendly & Crowd-Pleasing – A guaranteed family favorite.
✔ Versatile – Serve as an appetizer, snack, or main course.
✔ Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes!
📝 Ingredients (Serves 4)
For the Crispy Chicken Tenders:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (for maximum crunch!)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt & black pepper (to taste)
- Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)
For the Honey Mustard Dip:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- Salt & black pepper (to taste)
🍽️ Step-by-Step Instructions
1️⃣ Prep the Chicken Tenders
- Set up a 3-bowl breading station:
- Bowl 1: Add flour.
- Bowl 2: Whisk eggs.
- Bowl 3: Mix panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2️⃣ Bread the Chicken
- Coat each chicken strip in flour (shake off excess).
- Dip into the beaten eggs.
- Press into the breadcrumb mixture until evenly coated.
3️⃣ Fry to Perfection
- Heat ½ inch of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Once the oil reaches 350°F (175°C), carefully add chicken tenders in batches.
- Fry for 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temp: 165°F/75°C).
- Remove and drain on paper towels.
4️⃣ Prepare the Honey Mustard Dip
- In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper.
- Stir until smooth and creamy.
5️⃣ Serve & Enjoy!
- Serve the crispy chicken tenders hot with the honey mustard dip on the side.
- Enjoy as a main dish, appetizer, or snack!
⏳ Prep & Cooking Time
✅ Prep Time: 10 minutes
✅ Cook Time: 15 minutes
✅ Total Time: 25 minutes
🔥 Nutritional Info (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~450 kcal
- Protein: ~40g
- Carbs: ~32g
- Fats: ~18g
📌 Perfect for: Family meals, game nights, or meal prep!
🌟 Pro Tips for Extra Crunchy Chicken Tenders
✔ Use panko breadcrumbs – They create the crispiest coating.
✔ Double breading option – For extra crunch, dip in egg & breadcrumbs twice.
✔ Check oil temperature – Keep it at 350°F (175°C) for even frying.
✔ Make it healthier – Air fry at 375°F for 12-15 minutes, or bake at 400°F for 20 minutes.
🔥 Tasty Variations to Try
🔹 Spicy Chicken Tenders: Add ½ tsp cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mix.
🔹 Cheesy Crunch: Mix in ¼ cup grated Parmesan for extra flavor.
🔹 Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs & flour.
🔹 Buffalo Style: Toss in buffalo sauce & serve with ranch!
📢 Related Recipes You’ll Love
👉 [Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken]
👉 [Easy Air Fryer Chicken Wings]
👉 [Homemade Spicy Chicken Sandwich]
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Final Thoughts
These Crispy Chicken Tenders with Honey Mustard Dip are better than takeout, incredibly crunchy, and packed with flavor! Whether you’re making them for dinner, a party, or a snack, they’re guaranteed to be a hit.