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Chicken tenders have long held a cherished place in the hearts (and stomachs) of food lovers everywhere. This classic comfort food is beloved for its crispy exterior and tender, juicy interior, making it a favorite among families and children alike. Whether served as a quick weeknight dinner, a party platter, or a snack for game day, chicken tenders can satisfy cravings and bring people together. In this recipe, we take the quintessential chicken tender and give it a delightful twist by pairing it with a sweet honey mustard dip that perfectly balances flavors and adds an extra layer of enjoyment.

Crispy Chicken Tenders with Honey Mustard Dip

Discover the joy of making your own Crunchy Golden Chicken Tenders paired with a delightful sweet honey mustard dip! This simple and accessible recipe reveals the secrets to tender, flavorful chicken with a crispy exterior, thanks to a unique breading process. The honey mustard dip adds a sweet and tangy twist that perfectly complements the tenders. Perfect for family dinners or game day snacks, this dish is sure to impress everyone at the table. Enjoy the satisfaction of a homemade favorite!
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Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Tenders:

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips

1 cup buttermilk

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon paprika

1 teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 cup panko breadcrumbs (for an extra crunch)

½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, if you like some heat)

Vegetable oil, for frying

For the Honey Mustard Dip:

½ cup mayonnaise

¼ cup honey

¼ cup Dijon mustard

1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

Salt and pepper, to taste

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Instructions
 

Marinate the Chicken: In a large mixing bowl, combine the buttermilk, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until well blended. Add the chicken strips and stir to ensure they are fully coated in the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or preferably overnight for enhanced flavor and tenderness.

    Prepare the Breading Station: Set up your breading station by placing the all-purpose flour in one shallow dish and the panko breadcrumbs mixed with cayenne pepper (if using) in another dish. Once the chicken has marinated, remove it from the refrigerator and let any excess marinade drip off.

      Coat the Chicken: Begin the coating process by first dredging each chicken strip in the flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip the floured chicken back into the buttermilk for a second coating. Finally, roll the strips in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure an even coating. Arrange the coated tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

        Heat the Oil: In a deep skillet or large pot, pour in about ½ inch of vegetable oil and heat over medium-high heat. To check if the oil is ready, drop a small piece of bread into the oil; if it sizzles and bubbles, the oil is hot enough for frying.

          Fry the Chicken Tenders: Carefully add the coated chicken strips to the hot oil in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry each batch for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Use a slotted spoon to lift the cooked tenders from the oil and transfer them onto a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.

            Make the Honey Mustard Dip: While the chicken is frying, prepare the honey mustard dip by whisking together the mayonnaise, honey, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar in a small bowl. Season with salt and pepper to your taste. Feel free to adjust the sweetness with more honey or the tanginess with extra vinegar based on your preference.

              Serve: Transfer the crispy chicken tenders to a serving platter. Place the honey mustard dip in a small bowl on the side. For an added touch, garnish the dish with fresh herbs, such as parsley or cilantro, or serve with lemon wedges for a zesty finish.

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                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 mins | 30 mins | 4 servings