Crispy Fried Chicken Tenders with Honey Mustard Sauce

Crispy Fried Chicken Tenders with Honey Mustard Sauce are the perfect solution for an easy weeknight dinner that satisfies your cravings. These tender, juicy strips of chicken are coated in a crispy, golden-brown crust, making them irresistible. Paired with a creamy honey mustard sauce that balances sweetness and tang, these tenders are sure to be a hit with family and friends. Get ready to make chicken tenders that will have everyone coming back for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a crowd-pleaser for many reasons. Not only does it deliver on flavor, but it also offers a straightforward cooking process that anyone can master.

• Crispy Texture: The perfect crunch on the outside keeps every bite exciting.
• Flavorful Marinade: Buttermilk helps tenderize the chicken and infuses it with flavor.
• Quick to Prepare: An easy recipe that comes together in no time, perfect for busy evenings.
• Customizable Sauce: The honey mustard sauce can be adjusted to suit your taste.
• Kid-Friendly: These tenders are a favorite with kids and adults alike!

Ingredients

• 1 pound chicken tenders
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• Vegetable oil (for frying)
• ¼ cup honey
• ¼ cup Dijon mustard

How to Make Crispy Fried Chicken Tenders with Dipping Sauce

1. In a bowl, combine the chicken tenders and buttermilk. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for maximum flavor.
2. In a separate shallow dish, mix together the flour, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. In another shallow dish, place the breadcrumbs.
4. Remove the chicken tenders from the buttermilk and allow excess liquid to drip off. Dredge each tender in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess, then dip into the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
5. In a large skillet, heat about ½ inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until shimmering (around 350°F). Test the oil by dropping in a breadcrumb; it should sizzle immediately.
6. Carefully add the breaded chicken tenders in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
7. Transfer the cooked tenders to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
8. Meanwhile, in a small bowl, whisk together the honey and Dijon mustard until smooth. Adjust the ratio of honey to mustard to your taste preference.
9. Serve the crispy chicken tenders with the honey mustard sauce for dipping.

Tips for the Best Results

• For extra crunch, double-dip the chicken by dipping it back in the buttermilk after the flour, then back into the breadcrumbs.
• Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying to prevent the chicken from absorbing excess oil.
• Use a thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it’s fully cooked.

Easy Variations

• Spice it up by adding cayenne pepper or paprika to the flour mixture for a kick.
• Swap out the honey mustard for barbecue sauce or ranch dressing for dipping.
• Try using different types of breadcrumbs, such as seasoned or Italian-style, for a flavor twist.

What to Serve With It

• Crispy French fries or sweet potato fries for a classic pairing.
• A fresh side salad to balance the richness of the tenders.
• Coleslaw for a crunchy, tangy complement.
• Macaroni and cheese for a comforting side dish.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy again. Avoid the microwave, as it can make the tenders soggy.

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