For the Chicken Tenders:

• Chicken Tenders: Opt for fresh chicken tenderloins, which are naturally portioned for quick cooking. If unavailable, boneless, skinless chicken breasts can be sliced lengthwise into uniform 1-inch (2.5 cm) strips for a similar effect.
• Buttermilk: This is the secret to exceptionally juicy and tender chicken. The mild acidity in buttermilk helps to tenderize the chicken fibers and ensures the breading adheres perfectly. If you don’t have buttermilk, create a homemade substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice to a measuring cup, then filling the rest with regular milk and letting it sit for 5-10 minutes until it slightly curdles.
• Breadcrumbs: For the ultimate crispiness and a lighter texture, Panko breadcrumbs are highly recommended. Their larger, flakier structure creates a superior crunch. Italian seasoned breadcrumbs are also a great convenient alternative if you prefer a pre-flavored option, but ensure they are fresh.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese not only adds a salty, umami depth to the breading but also contributes to the golden-brown color and helps create an extra crispy crust.
• Spices: Our core blend includes garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dry mustard, salt, and black pepper. This combination forms a robust, savory foundation. Feel free to experiment with additional spices like a pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle kick, or dried herbs such as oregano and thyme for an aromatic Italian flair.
• Olive Oil: A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil over the coated tenders before baking is crucial. It helps the breading achieve that beautiful golden-brown hue and irresistible crispy texture without the need for deep-frying.

For the Homemade Honey Mustard Sauce:

• Honey: The natural sweetness of honey perfectly balances the tangy notes of mustard, creating the classic and beloved honey mustard flavor.
• Mayonnaise: Forms the creamy and rich base of your dipping sauce. Both full-fat and light mayonnaise work wonderfully, so choose according to your preference.
• Dijon Mustard: Essential for the best flavor profile. Dijon offers a sophisticated, sharp, and slightly spicy tang that is distinctly different and more complex than standard yellow mustard.
• Lemon Juice: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice is vital for brightening the sauce, cutting through the richness, and adding a lovely zesty finish that elevates the overall taste.
• Garlic Powder & Paprika: Small additions of these spices enhance the savory depth and warmth of the sauce, tying all the flavors together harmoniously.

1. Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to a high temperature of 450°F (230°C). This intense heat is crucial for ensuring the breading crisps up beautifully before the chicken has a chance to dry out. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper; this prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
2. Marinate the Chicken: In a spacious mixing bowl, combine the chicken tenders and the buttermilk. Use kitchen tongs to turn and toss the chicken, ensuring every piece is thoroughly coated in the buttermilk. Allow the chicken to marinate for a minimum of 15 minutes at room temperature. For even deeper flavor and enhanced tenderness, you can refrigerate it for up to 2 hours.
3. Prepare the Breading Mixture: While your chicken is marinating, prepare the crispy coating. In a shallow dish (a pie pan or a wide, shallow plate works perfectly), add the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, dry mustard, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Whisk all these ingredients together until they are well combined and uniformly distributed.
4. Coat the Chicken: Working one chicken tender at a time, remove it from the buttermilk, allowing any excess liquid to drip back into the bowl. Immediately place the tender into the breadcrumb mixture. Gently press the breading onto all sides of the chicken to ensure a complete and even coating. Transfer the fully coated chicken tender to your prepared parchment-lined baking sheet. Repeat this process with the remaining chicken, making sure to arrange them in a single layer with a little space between each piece to allow for proper air circulation and maximum crisping.
5. Drizzle with Olive Oil: Just before placing the baking sheet into the oven, lightly drizzle about 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil evenly over the tops of all the coated chicken tenders. This step is key for achieving that beautiful golden-brown color and an extra layer of irresistible crunch.
6. Bake to Perfection: Place the baking sheet into your preheated 450°F (230°C) oven. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the chicken tenders are golden brown on the outside and cooked through. To ensure safety and juiciness, verify that the internal temperature of the thickest part of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) using a meat thermometer. Avoid overcooking to maintain maximum tenderness.
7. Whip Up the Honey Mustard Sauce: While your chicken tenders are baking, prepare the perfect dipping companion. In a small bowl, combine the honey, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, fresh lemon juice, garlic powder, and paprika. Whisk all the ingredients together vigorously until the sauce is completely smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust the sweetness or tanginess to your liking.
8. Serve Warm: Once the chicken tenders are perfectly cooked, remove them from the oven and allow them to rest on the baking sheet for a couple of minutes. This brief resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the chicken, ensuring every bite is moist and flavorful. Serve your homemade crispy baked chicken tenders warm, accompanied by the freshly made honey mustard dipping sauce. Enjoy this delightful and satisfying meal!

Exciting Recipe Variations to Try

While the classic recipe for homemade baked chicken tenders is undeniably a winner, these versatile bites are perfect for experimenting with different flavor profiles. Here are some creative ways to switch up the spices and sauces:

• Spicy Kick: For those who love heat, infuse your breading mixture with a generous pinch of cayenne pepper, a dash of chili powder, and an extra boost of paprika. Serve these fiery tenders with a cooling ranch or blue cheese dip to balance the spice.
• Sweet and Sour Twist: Create an Asian-inspired experience by combining honey with soy sauce, a touch of rice vinegar, and a hint of fresh ginger for a unique sweet and sour dipping sauce.
• Garlic Parmesan Power: Elevate the savory notes by increasing the garlic powder and freshly grated Parmesan cheese in your breading. For an extra aromatic touch, consider adding a pinch of dried Italian herbs like oregano and basil.
• Cool Ranch Delight: Transform your tenders into a ranch lover’s dream by mixing a packet of dry ranch seasoning directly into your breadcrumb mixture. The herbaceous and tangy notes are incredibly addictive.
• Fiery Buffalo Style: After baking, toss the warm chicken tenders in your favorite store-bought or homemade buffalo sauce for a spicy and tangy treat. Serve with crunchy celery sticks and a creamy blue cheese dressing.
• Fresh Pesto Topping: For a burst of vibrant flavor and color, spread a spoonful of fresh basil pesto over the cooked chicken tenders. This adds a sophisticated and herbaceous dimension.
• Savory Teriyaki Glaze: During the last few minutes of baking, brush your chicken tenders with a rich store-bought or homemade teriyaki sauce for a sticky, sweet, and savory glaze that’s deeply satisfying.
• Lemon Herb Zest: Introduce a bright and aromatic flavor by adding dried oregano, thyme, and fresh lemon zest to your breadcrumb mixture. This creates a refreshing and light profile.
• Smoky BBQ Flavor: Mix a teaspoon of smoked paprika and a pinch of cumin into your breading, and serve with your favorite tangy barbecue sauce.

Storing and Reheating Your Homemade Chicken Tenders

These crispy chicken tenders are fantastic for meal prepping throughout the week or simply enjoying as delicious leftovers. Proper storage and reheating techniques will help maintain their taste and texture:

• Refrigerator Storage: Allow any leftover chicken tenders to cool completely to room temperature before storing. Transfer them to an airtight container and place them in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 3-5 days.
• Freezing for Later: For longer-term storage, cooked chicken tenders freeze beautifully. First, arrange the completely cooled tenders in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer for about 1 hour, or until they are solid. This flash-freezing step prevents them from sticking together. Once frozen solid, transfer the tenders to a freezer-safe airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bags. They will maintain their quality in the freezer for up to 1 month.
• Reheating for Crispiness: To bring back that glorious crispy texture, reheating in the oven or an air fryer is highly recommended.
  • Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the chicken tenders in a single layer on a baking sheet. Heat for approximately 10-15 minutes, or until they are heated through and the breading has become crispy again.
  • Air Fryer Method: Reheat in a preheated air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-8 minutes, giving the basket a shake halfway through, until the tenders are hot and wonderfully crispy.
  • Microwave Method (for quick reheat): While not ideal for preserving crispness, you can microwave the tenders for 1-2 minutes until heated through if you are in a rush. Expect a softer coating with this method.

Easy Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe

Author: The Carefree Kitchen

These crispy and healthy baked chicken tenders are a family favorite that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Serve with our simple honey mustard sauce for dipping.

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