Craving a simple, flavorful dish? These Baked Honey Mustard Chicken Tenders are perfect! Juicy chicken strips are coated in a sweet and tangy honey mustard sauce and baked to golden perfection. Ideal as an appetizer, main dish, or snack, they're sure to be a hit with everyone. Enjoy a delicious meal that's bound to become a family favorite!
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Why This Recipe Works
- You'll love these Honey Mustard Chicken Tenders for their ease and flavor. The sweet honey and tangy mustard sauce perfectly complements the juicy, tender chicken.
- Baked to crispy perfection, they're a healthier alternative to fried versions.
- Perfect as a quick weeknight dinner, fun appetizer, or party snack, they're a hit with both kids and adults.
- Minimal prep and cooking time mean you can enjoy this delicious dish without spending hours in the kitchen.
🥘 Ingredients
- Chicken Tenderloins: Tender and lean, perfect for quick cooking and absorbing flavors.
- Olive Oil: Adds a healthy fat and helps the chicken cook evenly.
- Honey: Adds natural sweetness and helps caramelize the chicken.
- Dijon Mustard: Provides a tangy, sharp flavor that balances the sweetness of the honey.
- Apple Cider Vinegar: Adds acidity to tenderize the chicken and enhance flavors.
- Paprika: Brings a mild, smoky flavor and vibrant color to the marinade.
- Garlic Powder: Adds a savory depth and aromatic flavor.
- Ground Mustard Powder: Enhances the mustard flavor with a concentrated kick.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance and balance all the flavors.
For the complete list of ingredients with measurements and instructions, please see the recipe card at the bottom of the post.
📖 Substitutions & Variations
- Honey Mustard and Soy Chicken Tenders: Incorporate soy sauce into the marinade for an umami-rich variation with a hint of Asian flair.
- Spicy Honey Mustard Chicken Tenders: Add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the marinade for a spicy kick.
- Herb-Infused Honey Mustard Chicken Tenders: Include fresh or dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano in the marinade for an aromatic twist.
- Citrus Honey Mustard Chicken Tenders: Add freshly squeezed lemon or orange juice to the marinade for a zesty, citrus flavor.
🔪 How To Make Baked Honey Mustard Chicken Tenders
Step One: Combine all marinade ingredients into a medium-sized bowl. Add chicken tenders and toss to coat. Marinate for 5 minutes.
Step Two: Heat the olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add in the chicken tenders. Cook on each side for 3 - 4 minutes or until fully cooked through.
👩🍳 Expert Tips
- Do not pour the leftover marinade in the skillet. It will burn. Be sure to cook the tenders on medium heat aa cooking on high heat will cause the honey in the marinade to burn.
💭 FAQs
Yes, you can use chicken breasts. Simply cut them into strips to resemble tenderloins, ensuring they cook evenly and remain tender.
This recipe is gluten-free so long as you use gluten-free Dijon Mustard.
Yes, you can prepare the marinade ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Marinating the chicken overnight will enhance the flavors even more.
Allow the baked chicken tenders to cool completely at room temperature before storing to prevent condensation and sogginess.
Place the cooled chicken tenders in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag to maintain freshness and prevent drying out.
Store the container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.
For longer storage, place the chicken tenders in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
🧂Serving Suggestions
Pair Honey Mustard Chicken Tenders With These side dishes:
- Chicken Tenders And Fries: Classic and crispy, Fries are a perfect match for chicken tenders.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and comforting, Mashed Potatoes pair well with the tender chicken.
- Red Cabage Coleslaw: A refreshing, crunchy side that adds a nice contrast to the tenders.
- Steamed Vegetables: Light and healthy, vegetables like Air Fryer Broccolini or Air Fried Asparagus balances out the meal nicely.
- Butternut Squash Macaroni and Cheese: Rich and cheesy, it’s a favorite side dish for both kids and adults.
- Avocado Salad: Fresh and crisp, it adds a healthy touch to your meal.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet and juicy, it complements the savory chicken tenders.
- Vegan Baked Beans: Smoky and sweet, they provide a hearty side option.
- Dipping Sauces: Offer a variety of dipping sauces like ranch, BBQ, honey mustard, or buffalo for added flavor and fun.
🍽 Related Recipes
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Honey Mustard Chicken Tenders
Ingredients
- 1 lb Chicken Tenderloins
- ½ tablespoon Olive Oil
- ¼ cup Honey
- 1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard
- 1 teaspoon Apple Cider Vinegar
- ½ teaspoon Paprika
- ½ teaspoon Garlic Powder
- ½ teaspoon Ground Mustard Powder
- Pinch Salt and Pepper
Instructions
- Combine all marinade ingredients into a medium sized bowl.
- Add chicken tenders and toss to coat. Marinate for 5 minutes.
- Heat the olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add in the chicken tenders.
- Cook on each side for 3 - 4 minutes or until fully cooked through.
