There is something so wonderfully comforting and flavorful about this Mustard Chicken Tenders Recipe that makes it an instant favorite for busy weeknights or casual dinners with friends. The perfect balance of tangy Dijon mustard and a touch of sweet honey creates a sauce that hugs each tender piece of chicken, baking into golden, juicy bites packed with savory goodness. With simple pantry ingredients and a straightforward method, this dish proves you don’t need to complicate things to enjoy incredible homemade chicken that’s both satisfying and impressive. Trust me, once you try this Mustard Chicken Tenders Recipe, it will have a permanent spot in your recipe rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these straightforward and vibrant ingredients is the first step to making magic happen. Each one plays a crucial role, from adding punchy flavor and delightful texture to bringing color and moisture that makes the dish sing.
- 1 1/2 pounds chicken tenders: The star of the dish, these tender cuts cook quickly and soak up the mustard glaze beautifully.
- 1/2 cup Dijon mustard: This provides a sharp, zesty foundation that defines the flavor profile, giving the dish its signature tang.
- 2 tablespoons honey: Just the right amount of sweetness to balance the mustard’s bite and help create a glossy finish.
- 1 tablespoon whole grain mustard (optional): Adds a rustic texture and an extra layer of complexity to the sauce.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: For aromatic depth that elevates the overall taste without overpowering the other ingredients.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps keep the chicken moist and adds richness to the marinade.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Infuses a gentle smoky warmth and a lovely color to the tenders.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for amplifying all the flavors perfectly.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just a hint of heat and seasoning depth.
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional): A fresh, herbaceous touch to brighten the finished dish beautifully.
How to Make Mustard Chicken Tenders Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze. Getting this ready ahead of time ensures your chicken cooks evenly and develops that perfect golden tone.
Step 2: Whisk Together the Mustard Sauce
In a large bowl, combine the Dijon mustard, honey, whole grain mustard if you love a bit of texture, minced garlic, olive oil, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Whisk these ingredients thoroughly until the mixture becomes smooth and well-blended. This sauce is where all the flavor magic starts!
Step 3: Coat the Chicken Tenders
Add the chicken tenders to the bowl and toss them gently but thoroughly so each piece is evenly covered in that vibrant mustard sauce. Make sure every tender is well-coated for maximum flavor in every bite.
Step 4: Arrange and Bake
Spread the coated chicken tenders out in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet. Pop the tray into the oven and bake for 18 to 20 minutes, flipping the tenders once halfway through cooking. This flipping helps both sides get nicely golden and ensures even cooking.
Step 5: Broil for Extra Crispiness
For those who love a little extra crunch around the edges, switch your oven to the broil setting and cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes. Keep a close eye to avoid burning, but this final step brings a wonderfully crisp finish that contrasts beautifully with the tender interior.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, sprinkle the chicken tenders with fresh chopped parsley to add a burst of color and a fresh herbal note. Serve immediately while warm and enjoy every tender, flavorful bite of this easy and irresistible Mustard Chicken Tenders Recipe.
How to Serve Mustard Chicken Tenders Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes can make this dish pop. Chopped fresh parsley or even fresh thyme works beautifully, adding a vibrant green color and fresh aroma that contrast the rich mustard glaze. You can even sprinkle a little lemon zest on top for a bright twist that livens every mouthful.
Side Dishes
Because these tenders are packed with flavor, pairing them with lighter sides works best. Roasted vegetables like asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or carrots offer earthy sweetness. A crisp green salad brings refreshing balance, or fluffy rice or quinoa can soak up any extra sauce, turning the meal into a complete crowd-pleaser.
Creative Ways to Present
Feeling creative? Slide these mustard chicken tenders into warm pita pockets with crunchy slaw for a tasty sandwich twist. Alternatively, chop them up and toss in wraps or salads for a quick lunch. They even make a fantastic protein topping for a loaded baked potato or a vibrant grain bowl.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh and flavorful for up to 3 days, making for a quick and tasty meal the next day.
Freezing
This Mustard Chicken Tenders Recipe freezes wonderfully. Place cooled tenders in a freezer-safe container or bag with as much air removed as possible. They can last up to 2 months frozen, perfect for batch cooking and future easy meals.
Reheating
To reheat, pop the tenders in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes until warmed through and crisp again. Avoid microwaving if possible, as that can make the tenders lose their wonderful texture and become soggy.
FAQs
Can I use regular yellow mustard instead of Dijon?
You can, but Dijon mustard offers a milder and more sophisticated flavor that works best with this recipe. Yellow mustard is more tangy and vinegary, which might overpower the balance. If using yellow mustard, consider reducing the amount and balancing with a bit more honey.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! The Mustard Chicken Tenders Recipe as written is naturally gluten-free since it uses no breading or flour. Just double-check the labels on your mustard and any other packaged ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free certified.
How can I make these chicken tenders more spicy?
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some crushed red pepper flakes into the mustard sauce for a spicy kick. You could also drizzle with hot sauce after baking or serve with a spicy dipping sauce on the side.
Can I cook this in an air fryer instead of the oven?
Yes! Cooking at 375°F for around 12 to 14 minutes works well in the air fryer, flipping halfway through. This method gives great texture and slightly faster cooking, making it ideal for busy days.
What should I serve if I want a low-carb meal?
Pair the Mustard Chicken Tenders Recipe with steamed or roasted low-carb veggies like zucchini noodles, cauliflower rice, or a fresh leafy salad to keep your meal light and carb-conscious.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a recipe that is as simple to prepare as it is delicious to eat, this Mustard Chicken Tenders Recipe delivers on all fronts. Its bright, tangy flavors combined with a touch of sweetness create a dish that feels both comforting and fresh. Whether you’re feeding a family or entertaining friends, these chicken tenders are guaranteed to impress and satisfy. So go ahead, dive in, and let this recipe become one of your new favorites—it’s that good!
Print
Mustard Chicken Tenders Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This easy and flavorful Mustard Chicken Tenders recipe combines tangy Dijon mustard, a touch of honey, and aromatic garlic for a perfect weeknight meal. Baked to juicy perfection with a hint of paprika and optional whole grain mustard for texture, these chicken tenders are quick to prepare and delicious served with roasted veggies, salad, or rice.
Ingredients
Chicken and Marinade
- 1 1/2 pounds chicken tenders
- 1/2 cup Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon whole grain mustard (optional for texture)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
- Make the Marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, honey, whole grain mustard (if using), minced garlic, olive oil, paprika, salt, and black pepper until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Coat the Chicken: Add the chicken tenders to the bowl and toss them thoroughly until each piece is evenly coated with the mustard marinade.
- Arrange for Baking: Spread the coated chicken tenders out in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not overcrowded to allow even cooking.
- Bake the Chicken: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 18 to 20 minutes, flipping the tenders halfway through baking to promote even browning and cooking.
- Optional Broil for Crispiness: For crispier edges, switch your oven to broil and cook the tenders for an additional 2 to 3 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven, garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm alongside your favorite sides like roasted vegetables, salad, or rice.
Notes
- Serve with roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or over fluffy rice for a complete meal.
- For a milder mustard flavor, reduce the amount of Dijon mustard and increase honey slightly.
- This recipe also adapts well to an air fryer: cook at 375°F for 12–14 minutes, flipping halfway through.
