If you love a flavorful, juicy chicken dish that’s quick and easy to prepare, you’re going to adore this Mustard Chicken Tenders Recipe. It brings together the tangy sharpness of Dijon and whole grain mustards, the gentle sweetness of honey, and a smoky hint of paprika for a truly irresistible bite every time. Perfectly baked to golden-brown perfection, these chicken tenders are the kind of meal that feels comforting and special all at once, making them an instant family favorite or a star player in any weeknight dinner lineup.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully simple yet essential to creating the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color in your Mustard Chicken Tenders Recipe. Each component has its own role, from the creamy tang of mustard to the warmth of smoked paprika, ensuring every bite is deliciously satisfying.
- Chicken tenders, 1 ½ pounds: The tender, lean protein that cooks quickly and evenly, perfect for soaking up all the mustardy goodness.
- Dijon mustard, ¼ cup: Adds a smooth, tangy base that brightens the marinade and penetrates the meat.
- Whole grain mustard, 2 tablespoons: Brings a delightful texture and a slightly spicy kick with visible mustard seeds.
- Honey, 2 tablespoons: Balances the mustard’s acidity with sweetness and helps with caramelization during baking.
- Olive oil, 2 tablespoons: Ensures the chicken stays moist and contributes subtle richness.
- Garlic powder, 1 teaspoon: Infuses a deep, savory undertone without overpowering the mustard flavors.
- Smoked paprika, ½ teaspoon: Adds a gentle smoky warmth and a beautiful hint of color.
- Salt, ½ teaspoon: Enhances all the flavors and seasons the tenders perfectly.
- Black pepper, ¼ teaspoon: Adds a mild bite to round out the seasoning profile.
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional): A fresh, herbal garnish to brighten the finished dish with color and aroma.
How to Make Mustard Chicken Tenders Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
Start by whisking together Dijon mustard, whole grain mustard, honey, olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl. This vibrant marinade is packed with layers of flavor that will gently infuse into the chicken, transforming simple tenders into something truly special.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Add the chicken tenders to the bowl and toss them thoroughly so each piece is coated evenly with the marinade. Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. If you have the time, letting it marinate for up to 4 hours really intensifies the flavors, making every bite more delicious.
Step 3: Prepare to Bake
Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it. This step guarantees non-stick cooking and easy cleanup, plus it allows the tenders to brown beautifully without sticking.
Step 4: Bake the Chicken Tenders
Arrange the marinated chicken tenders in a single layer on the baking sheet. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes, flipping them halfway through. This ensures even cooking and a golden crust on both sides. The chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the tenders have a gorgeous caramelized finish.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Once baked, optionally sprinkle the chicken with freshly chopped parsley to add a pop of color and herbal freshness before serving. These Mustard Chicken Tenders Recipe results are juicy, flavorful, and simply irresistible.
How to Serve Mustard Chicken Tenders Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of chopped parsley or even some finely sliced green onions works beautifully to brighten up the plate. For an extra touch, a drizzle of honey mustard sauce elevates the tangy notes and adds moisture that keeps every bite luscious.
Side Dishes
These tender chicken bites pair exceptionally well with roasted vegetables, like asparagus or Brussels sprouts, for a wholesome meal bursting with texture. Creamy mashed potatoes or a fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette also offer a nice balance to the savory richness of the chicken.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving your Mustard Chicken Tenders Recipe on a bed of fluffy quinoa or alongside warm couscous mixed with herbs and lemon zest for an exciting twist. For a fun appetizer option, arrange the tenders on a platter with dipping sauces such as ranch, honey mustard, or a spicy aioli to wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container and refrigerate. They stay delicious for up to 3 days and make for quick lunches or easy dinner additions throughout the week.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked tenders by first letting them cool completely, then placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen chicken tenders last up to 2 months and thaw quickly, making them a fantastic make-ahead option for busy days.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or until warmed through to preserve the crispy edges. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the texture nice and crunchy, although it works fine for a quick heat-up.
FAQs
Can I use other types of mustard for this Mustard Chicken Tenders Recipe?
Absolutely! While Dijon and whole grain mustard give the best flavor, you can experiment with spicy brown or yellow mustard if that’s what you have. The taste will vary slightly but still be delightful.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients in this Mustard Chicken Tenders Recipe are naturally gluten-free, making it safe for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
Can I cook these chicken tenders on the grill instead of baking?
Yes, grilling works well too. Just be sure to keep an eye on them and flip often to prevent burning, as the honey in the marinade can cause flare-ups due to its sugars.
How long should I marinate the chicken for the best flavor?
At minimum, 30 minutes gives enough time for the marinade to work its magic. For more depth of flavor, aim for 1 to 4 hours in the fridge, but avoid marinating overnight to prevent the acid from breaking down the chicken too much.
What can I serve as a dipping sauce with this dish?
A simple honey mustard sauce made with equal parts honey and mustard is a classic choice and doubles the flavor impact. Ranch or a garlic aioli also make tasty alternatives for dipping.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so wonderfully satisfying about homemade chicken tenders that are bursting with flavor, and this Mustard Chicken Tenders Recipe hits all the marks: easy, fast, and packed with delicious complexity. Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining friends, this dish is sure to become a cherished go-to. So grab your ingredients, create that luscious marinade, and get ready to enjoy some seriously tasty chicken that everyone will ask you to make again and again!
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Mustard Chicken Tenders Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus 30 minutes to 4 hours marinating time)
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes (plus marinating time)
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This delightful recipe for Mustard Chicken Tenders features tender chicken strips coated in a flavorful blend of Dijon and whole grain mustards, honey, and spices, then baked to golden perfection. Perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner, these chicken tenders are juicy, tangy, and kid-friendly. Serve them warm garnished with fresh parsley and pair with your favorite sides for a wholesome meal.
Ingredients
Chicken and Marinade
- 1 ½ pounds chicken tenders
- ¼ cup Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons whole grain mustard
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Garnish
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, whole grain mustard, honey, olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Marinate the chicken: Add the chicken tenders to the bowl and toss them thoroughly to evenly coat all pieces with the mustard marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours to allow the flavors to develop.
- Preheat the oven: When ready to cook, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
- Arrange and bake: Lay the marinated chicken tenders in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Place it in the oven and bake for 18 to 20 minutes, flipping the tenders halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning.
- Check doneness and serve: The chicken tenders are done when they turn golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm with your favorite sides or extra honey mustard sauce for dipping.
Notes
- You can also cook these chicken tenders in an air fryer at 380°F for 12 to 14 minutes for quicker preparation and crispy texture.
- Serve with extra honey mustard sauce or a side of roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
- Marinating for longer than 30 minutes—up to 4 hours—enhances the flavor and tenderness of the chicken.
