Experience the perfect blend of sweet and tangy with these Honey Dijon Chicken Tenders. Coated in a delicious honey mustard sauce, these chicken tenders are crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a crowd-pleasing appetizer, or meal prep inspiration, this recipe has you covered.
Key Information
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Number of Servings: 4
- Serving Size: 2-3 tenders
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 340
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fat: 16g
Ingredients List
- 500g (1.1 lbs) chicken tenders
- 1/2 cup (120ml) Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup (60ml) honey
- 1 tablespoon (15ml) olive oil
- 1 tablespoon (15ml) apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup (60g) almond flour (for coating)
- 1/4 cup (30g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon (15g) unsalted butter, melted
- Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Detailed Method of Preparation
- Preheat the oven: Set it to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Prepare the honey Dijon sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, honey, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth. Set aside.
- Coat the chicken: Pat the chicken tenders dry with a paper towel. In a separate bowl, mix the almond flour and Parmesan cheese.
- Dip the chicken tenders: First, dip each chicken tender in the honey Dijon sauce, allowing excess to drip off. Then coat them in the almond flour mixture, pressing lightly to adhere. Place each tender on the prepared baking sheet.
- Drizzle with butter: Lightly drizzle the melted butter over the coated chicken tenders for extra crispiness.
- Bake: Place in the preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden brown.
- Garnish and serve: Let the chicken tenders cool for a few minutes before serving. Sprinkle with chopped parsley if desired.
Tips for Culinary Success
- Make it extra crispy: For a crispier coating, broil the chicken tenders for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end of the baking time.
- Adjust the sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet sauce, reduce the honey to 3 tablespoons.
- Use a meat thermometer: Ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 75°C (165°F) for safe consumption.
- Air fryer option: Cook the chicken tenders in an air fryer at 190°C (375°F) for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken tenders ahead and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before baking. When ready, bake them as directed.
2. What can I use as a substitute for almond flour?
If you’re not following a low-carb diet, you can use regular breadcrumbs or panko for a different texture.
3. Can I use chicken breast instead of tenders?
Yes, chicken breasts can be cut into strips and used in place of tenders. Adjust the cooking time as needed.
4. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover Honey Dijon Chicken Tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for the best texture.
These Honey Dijon Chicken Tenders are the perfect balance of sweet and savory, making them an excellent addition to any meal. Whether you’re enjoying them fresh from the oven or packing them for lunch, each bite offers a satisfying crunch and a burst of flavor. Give this easy recipe a try and savor the delicious combination of honey and Dijon mustard!
