Description

These Honey Dijon Chicken Tenders are crispy, juicy, and coated in a delicious sweet and tangy honey Dijon sauce. Baked, air-fried, or pan-fried to golden perfection, they’re a quick and easy meal that’s perfect for kids and adults alike. Serve them with fries, a fresh salad, or a dipping sauce for the ultimate meal!

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken Tenders:

1 lb chicken tenders (or chicken breasts cut into strips)
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon onion powder

For the Breading:

½ cup all-purpose flour
2 eggs, beaten
1 cup panko breadcrumbs (for extra crispiness)
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor)

For the Honey Dijon Sauce:

¼ cup Dijon mustard
¼ cup honey
1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice)
½ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon black pepper

For Garnish (Optional):

Fresh parsley, chopped
Extra honey drizzle

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken Tenders:

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) (or preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C)).
Season the chicken with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and onion powder.

Bread the Chicken:

Set up a breading station with three bowls:
- Bowl 1: Flour
- Bowl 2: Beaten eggs
- Bowl 3: Panko breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese
Coat each chicken tender in flour, dip in the egg mixture, then press into the panko mixture, ensuring an even coating.

Cooking Methods:

Baking:
5. Place the breaded tenders on a greased baking sheet and spray lightly with oil.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.

Air Fryer:
7. Arrange tenders in a single layer and air fry for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway.

Pan Frying:
8. Heat ½ inch of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the tenders for 3-4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Drain on paper towels.

Make the Honey Dijon Sauce:

In a small bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard, honey, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, and black pepper.

Coat & Serve:

Toss the hot chicken tenders in the honey Dijon sauce or serve it as a dipping sauce.
Garnish with fresh parsley and an extra drizzle of honey if desired.

Notes

Make It Spicier: Add ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper to the breading for extra heat.
Lighter Option: Skip the breading and bake or air fry the seasoned tenders directly.
Storage & Reheating: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer or oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 2-3 chicken tenders
Calories: 380 kcal
Fat: 12g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Protein: 35g