Crispy Mustard Chicken Tenders That Will Steal Your Heart

Are you ready to elevate your chicken game? If so, Crispy Mustard Chicken Tenders are an irresistible choice that promises both flavor and texture. These delightful morsels combine the tangy kick of mustard with the perfect crunch, making them ideal for any occasion—from family dinners to game day snacks.
Moreover, these succulent chicken pieces are not only easy to prepare but also loved by both kids and adults alike. Whether served with dipping sauces or nestled in a salad, crispy chicken tenders coated in zesty mustard create a delicious experience that keeps everyone coming back for more. Dive into this recipe to discover the magic behind these tasty treats!
Ingredients:
To create delightful Crispy Mustard Chicken Tenders, gather these exact ingredients:

Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
---|
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into strips) | 1 pound | Fresh or thawed |
Dijon mustard | 1/2 cup | For coating |
Honey | 1/4 cup | Adds sweetness |
Breadcrumbs (panko or regular) | 1 cup | Panko gives extra crunch |
Garlic powder | 1 teaspoon | Seasoning |
Onion powder | 1 teaspoon | Seasoning |
Paprika | 1/2 teaspoon | Adds color & mild flavor |
Salt | 1/2 teaspoon | Adjust to taste |
Black pepper | 1/4 teaspoon | Freshly ground preferred |
All-purpose flour | 1/4 cup | Helps coating stick |
Large eggs (beaten) | 2 | For dredging |
Cooking spray or oil | As needed | For baking |
How to Prepare Crispy Mustard Chicken Tenders:

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lightly spraying it with cooking oil.
Step 2: Cut 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts into strips. Set aside.
Step 3: In a mixing bowl, combine 1/2 cup Dijon mustard and 1/4 cup honey. Stir until smooth and fully blended.
Step 4: In another bowl, whisk 2 large eggs until well beaten.
Step 5: On a separate plate, mix together:
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Step 6: Lightly coat each chicken strip in 1/4 cup all-purpose flour to help the coating stick.
Step 7: Dip each floured chicken strip into the mustard-honey mixture, coating it completely.
Step 8: Roll the coated chicken in the seasoned breadcrumb mixture until fully covered.
Step 9: Arrange the chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
Step 10: Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.For a mouth-watering twist, serve them alongside a honey mustard dip or explore my Pretzel Chicken with Mustard Cheddar Sauce, which is another delightful chicken dish.

Cooking Techniques for Crispy Mustard Chicken Tenders:
Step | Action | Details / Tips |
---|---|---|
1 | Choose quality chicken | Use fresh chicken breast and cut into uniform strips for even cooking. |
2 | Marinate | Coat strips in mustard mixture to add flavor and tenderize meat. |
3 | Dredge | Roll marinated strips in seasoned breadcrumbs for a crunchy coating. |
4 | Frying option | Use a blend of oils (peanut or canola) for better temperature control and crispiness. |
5 | Oven-baked option | Place tenders on a parchment-lined baking sheet to prevent sticking and maintain crunch. |
6 | Bake | Cook at 425°F (220°C) for even cooking and golden-brown color. |
For more ideas on chicken preparation, check out the delicious Garlic Parmesan Chicken. Additionally, if you’re looking for a classic approach to cooking tenders, explore this chicken tenders recipe. The combination of techniques ensures that your crispy mustard chicken tenders remain juicy and flavorful, making them an irresistible choice for any meal.
Serving Suggestions for Crispy Mustard Chicken Tenders:
Serving Idea | Description | Why It Works |
---|
Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad | Serve tenders alongside crisp greens, creamy dressing, and Parmesan. | Balances the tangy mustard with freshness and creaminess. |
Sweet Potato Fries | Pair tenders with baked or fried sweet potato fries. | Adds natural sweetness and a pop of color. |
Fresh Coleslaw | Crisp cabbage and tangy dressing as a side. | Provides crunch and a refreshing contrast. |
Honey Mustard Sauce | Classic dipping sauce made with honey and Dijon mustard. | Complements the chicken’s flavor with extra tang and sweetness. |
Spicy Sriracha Dip | Blend mayonnaise and sriracha for a kick. | Adds heat to balance the crispy coating. |
Pretzel Chicken with Mustard Cheddar Sauce | Serve with a salty pretzel-style coating and cheesy mustard dip. | Creates a fun twist with salty, cheesy notes. |
Chicken & Cheese Quesadillas | Place tenders in a warm tortilla with cheese and toppings. | Turns the tenders into a tasty, handheld meal. |

Storage Tips:
When it comes to storing your leftover Crispy Mustard Chicken Tenders, proper methods ensure they remain delicious and safe to eat. First, let the chicken tenders cool to room temperature. This helps prevent condensation, which can make them soggy when stored. Place them in an airtight container lined with paper towels to absorb excess moisture. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
For long-term storage, consider freezing them. Wrap each tender in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last up to 2 months in the freezer. To reheat, bake them in the oven at 375°F for about 15-20 minutes for optimal crispiness. If you’re looking for more chicken recipes to pair with your tenders, check out these flavorful Chicken Pot Pies that make a comforting meal. Enjoy your crispy delights even after the main event!
Nutritional Information for Crispy Mustard Chicken Tenders:
Crispy Mustard Chicken Tenders offer a delicious balance of flavor and nutrition. Each serving typically contains around 200 calories, 15 grams of protein, and less than 10 grams of fat, making them a delightful choice for a healthy meal. For more complementing flavors, consider pairing them with a vibrant side dish like Garlic Parmesan Chicken to enhance your culinary experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
What ingredients are needed for Crispy Mustard Chicken Tenders?
To prepare these delightful chicken tenders, you will need chicken breast, mustard, breadcrumbs, salt, pepper, and optional seasonings like paprika or garlic powder. The key is to use a good quality mustard for dipping, which gives the tenders their unique zing.
How can I make my Crispy Mustard Chicken Tenders even crispier?
To achieve an extra crispy texture, consider double coating your chicken tenders. First, coat them in mustard, then dredge them in breadcrumbs, and repeat for a crunchier finish. Additionally, you can bake them at a higher temperature or lightly spray them with oil before cooking.
Can I use other types of mustard?
Absolutely! While yellow mustard works well, trying Dijon or whole-grain mustard can add a different flavor dimension. Experimenting with various mustard types can customize your crispy tenders to your taste.
Can I use other types of mustard?
Absolutely! While yellow mustard works well, trying Dijon or whole-grain mustard can add a different flavor dimension. Experimenting with various mustard types can customize your crispy tenders to your taste.

Crispy Mustard Chicken Tenders That Will Steal Your Heart
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Crispy Mustard Chicken Tenders combine tangy Dijon mustard and sweet honey with a crunchy breadcrumb coating—perfect for family dinners or game day snacks.
Ingredients
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
1/2 cup Dijon mustard
1/4 cup honey
1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
1/4 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs, beaten
Cooking spray or oil, as needed
Instructions
-
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Lightly spray a baking sheet with cooking oil.
-
Cut chicken breasts into uniform strips for even cooking.
-
In a mixing bowl, combine Dijon mustard and honey until smooth.
-
In a separate bowl, whisk eggs until fully beaten.
-
On a plate, mix breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
-
Lightly coat each chicken strip with flour.
-
Dip floured chicken into the mustard-honey mixture, coating evenly.
-
Roll coated chicken in seasoned breadcrumbs until fully covered.
-
Arrange tenders on the baking sheet in a single layer.
-
Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and crispy.
Notes
For extra crispiness, double-coat the chicken by repeating the mustard and breadcrumb steps.
You can substitute Dijon mustard with yellow or whole-grain mustard for a different flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Lunch
- Method: Baking (Oven)
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 2–3 tenders)
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: crispy mustard chicken tenders, baked chicken tenders, Dijon mustard chicken, honey mustard chicken strips, crunchy chicken recipe