Chicken Tenders with Honey Mustard: Crispy, Golden & Irresistible

Chicken Tenders with Honey Mustard are a timeless favorite that never go out of style. Juicy chicken coated in a crispy, golden breadcrumb crust pairs perfectly with a sweet-and-tangy honey mustard dipping sauce. This easy, homemade version is far better than takeout and comes together quickly with simple pantry ingredients, making it perfect for busy weeknights, casual lunches, or family dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy & Golden – Perfectly crunchy coating every time
• Juicy Inside – Tender chicken cooked just right
• Kid-Friendly – A meal everyone loves
• Simple Ingredients – No complicated steps
• Quick to Make – Ready in about 30 minutes
• Versatile – Great as a main dish or appetizer

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: About 30 minutes

Ingredients

Chicken Tenders

• 1 lb chicken tenders
• ½ cup flour
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 2–3 tbsp olive oil or butter
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste

Honey Mustard Sauce

• ¼ cup honey
• ¼ cup mustard
• 1–2 tbsp mayonnaise (optional, for creaminess)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Season the Chicken
   Season chicken tenders on both sides with salt and black pepper.
2. Bread the Chicken
   Dredge each tender in flour, then dip into beaten eggs, and coat well with breadcrumbs.
3. Cook Until Crispy
   Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the breaded chicken tenders and cook until golden and crispy on both sides, about 3–4 minutes per side.
4. Make the Honey Mustard Sauce
   In a small bowl, mix honey and mustard until smooth. Stir in mayonnaise if using for a creamier texture.
5. Serve Hot
   Serve the crispy chicken tenders immediately with honey mustard sauce on the side.

How to Serve

• Classic: With fries or roasted potatoes
• Lighter Option: Pair with a fresh green salad
• Kid Favorite: Serve with veggie sticks
• Party Style: Cut into pieces and serve as an appetizer

Helpful Tips

• Pat chicken dry before breading for better crispiness
• Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch
• Don’t overcrowd the pan cook in batches if needed
• Keep cooked tenders warm in a low oven while finishing batches
• Adjust honey-to-mustard ratio to suit your taste

Variations

• Baked Chicken Tenders: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 18–20 minutes
• Spicy Version: Add paprika or cayenne to the breadcrumbs
• Air Fryer Option: Air fry at 380°F (193°C) for 12–14 minutes
• Extra Crispy: Double-dip in egg and breadcrumbs
• Herbed Coating: Add Italian seasoning to breadcrumbs

Storage & Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers up to 3 days
• Freeze: Freeze cooked tenders up to 2 months
• Reheat: Oven or air fryer for best crispiness

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?
Yes, slice chicken breasts into strips.

Can I make these ahead of time?
They’re best fresh, but you can reheat them easily.

Is the honey mustard sauce optional?
Yes, but it pairs perfectly with the tenders.

Can I make this gluten-free?
Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs.

Conclusion

Chicken Tenders with Honey Mustard are the perfect combination of crispy, juicy, sweet, and savory. Easy to prepare and loved by all ages, this recipe is a must-have for quick dinners, casual gatherings, or anytime you want comforting homemade food.