Homemade chicken tenders are a timeless favorite, adored for their crunchy texture and savory flavor. This recipe for Crunchy Golden Chicken Tenders with Sweet Honey Mustard Dip elevates the classic dish to new heights, making it perfect for family dinners, game days, or casual gatherings. The satisfaction of preparing these golden morsels from scratch is both rewarding and delicious. With a simple process and readily available ingredients, you can whip up this crowd-pleaser in no time.
Ingredients
– 1 lb chicken breast, cut into strips
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 large eggs, beaten
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– Oil for frying
For the Honey Mustard Dip
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. In a large bowl, combine the buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken strips to the marinade and ensure they are fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best results.
2. Prepare your dredging station by setting up three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and the last with panko breadcrumbs.
3. Remove the marinated chicken from the refrigerator. Dredge each strip in flour, shaking off any excess. Dip into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off, then coat with panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, fry the chicken tenders in batches, cooking for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
5. For the honey mustard dip, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, honey, apple cider vinegar, and seasoning in a bowl until smooth. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Understanding the Ingredients
Chicken Breast
Choosing chicken breast as the primary ingredient not only provides a lean protein source but also ensures that the tenders remain moist and tender. When selecting chicken breast, look for pieces that are plump, with a pink hue and minimal bruising, as these indicators signify freshness and quality.
Marinade Components
The buttermilk marinade plays a crucial role in this recipe. It tenderizes the chicken, ensuring each bite is juicy and flavorful. The addition of garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper enhances the chicken’s taste, providing a savory foundation that complements the crispy crust.
Dredging Station Essentials
The three-step dredging process is key to achieving that desired crunch. The flour creates a base coating that helps the egg adhere, while the beaten eggs act as a binder for the panko breadcrumbs. The panko breadcrumbs, known for their light and airy texture, deliver an extra crunch that makes these chicken tenders irresistible.
The Perfect Honey Mustard Dip
The sweet honey mustard dip balances beautifully with the savory chicken tenders. The combination of mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and honey creates a creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet flavor. The addition of apple cider vinegar introduces a hint of tanginess, while seasoning enhances the overall taste, making this dip a perfect accompaniment to the crunchy tenders.
Marinating the Chicken
To achieve maximum flavor in your chicken tenders, marinating is essential. Start by preparing a simple marinade using ingredients like buttermilk, garlic powder, paprika, and a pinch of salt. Submerge the chicken tenders in this mixture and allow them to marinate for at least 1 hour, but ideally, aim for 4-6 hours. This extended time allows the flavors to penetrate the meat, resulting in juicy and flavorful tenders. For the best results, place the marinating chicken in the refrigerator to keep it fresh.
Setting Up the Dredging Station
An efficient dredging station is key to achieving that perfect crispy coating. Set up three separate bowls:
1. Flour Bowl: Fill one bowl with all-purpose flour and season with salt, pepper, and any additional spices you prefer.
2. Egg Wash Bowl: In the second bowl, beat together eggs and a splash of milk to create a smooth egg wash.
3. Breadcrumb Bowl: In the third bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs with additional seasonings like Italian herbs or cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
Make sure to organize the bowls in order so you can easily transfer the chicken tenders from one to the next without creating a mess.
Dredging Process
To achieve a perfect coating on your chicken tenders, begin by removing the marinated chicken from the fridge. Let any excess marinade drip off before dredging. Start by coating each tender in the flour, shaking off any excess. Then, dip it in the egg wash, allowing any surplus to drip back into the bowl. Finally, coat the tender in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure an even layer. This three-step process will help create a crunchy texture when fried.
Frying Techniques
For frying your chicken tenders, the oil temperature is critical. The ideal frying temperature is around 350°F (175°C). To check if your oil is ready, drop a small piece of bread into the oil; if it sizzles and browns in about 60 seconds, your oil is hot enough. It’s important not to overcrowd the pan; fry in batches to maintain the oil temperature and avoid sogginess. Each batch should take about 4-6 minutes until golden brown.
Cooking Time and Temperature
To ensure food safety, the internal temperature of the chicken tenders should reach 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature in the thickest part of the tender. Once cooked, transfer the tenders to a wire rack to drain excess oil, which helps maintain their crunchiness.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving your crunchy chicken tenders, presentation matters. Arrange the tenders on a platter and garnish with fresh parsley or lemon wedges for a pop of color. Pair them with a variety of side dishes such as coleslaw, sweet potato fries, or a fresh garden salad. For beverages, consider serving with lemonade, iced tea, or a crisp lager to complement the dish.
Nutritional Information
Chicken tenders are a great source of protein, making them a filling meal option. Each serving provides approximately 25 grams of protein, which is beneficial for muscle repair and growth. For a healthier twist, consider baking the tenders instead of frying, or using whole wheat breadcrumbs and reducing the amount of oil used.
Conclusion
Making crunchy chicken tenders at home is not just a cooking task; it’s a delightful experience that brings joy and satisfaction. This recipe is perfect for family dinners, casual gatherings, or even as a comforting snack. The versatility of chicken tenders allows for endless variations, from different marinades to dipping sauces. Don’t forget the homemade honey mustard dip that elevates the overall flavor experience. So gather your ingredients, embrace the process, and enjoy the rewarding feeling of serving a beloved dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
