Crispy Chicken Tenders with Dipping Sauce

Instructions:

1️⃣ Prepare the Dipping Sauce

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, mustard, honey, and lemon juice.
  2. Chill in the fridge while preparing the chicken.

2️⃣ Prepare the Chicken

  1. In a shallow bowl, combine flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
  2. In another bowl, beat eggs and milk together.
  3. Place panko breadcrumbs in a third bowl.

3️⃣ Bread the Chicken

  1. Dredge each chicken tender in flour, shaking off excess.
  2. Dip in egg mixture.
  3. Coat evenly with panko breadcrumbs. Press gently to adhere.

4️⃣ Cook the Chicken

Option A – Pan-Fry:

  • Heat ½ inch vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat.
  • Fry chicken tenders 3–4 minutes per side, until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  • Drain on paper towels.

Option B – Oven-Bake (Healthier):

  • Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
  • Place tenders on a greased baking sheet and spray lightly with cooking spray.
  • Bake 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and cooked through.

5️⃣ Serve

  • Serve hot with honey mustard or your favorite dipping sauce.
  • Optional sides: fries, coleslaw, or a simple salad.

Tips for Extra Crispy Chicken Tenders

  • Use panko breadcrumbs for maximum crunch.
  • Let breaded chicken rest 10 minutes before frying or baking — helps coating stick.
  • For more flavor, mix grated Parmesan or paprika into breadcrumbs.
  • If baking, drizzle a little melted butter over tenders for golden perfection.

These tenders are crispy, juicy, and irresistible — perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or party platter. 💛

I can also give you a spicy buffalo-style version with a creamy ranch dip, which takes these tenders to the next level.

Do you want me to do that?

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