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Crispy Honey Mustard Chicken Tenders (Easy Sheet-Pan Recipe)

crispy honey mustard chicken tenders - featured image

These crispy sheet-pan honey mustard chicken tenders are quick, easy, and perfect for busy weeknights. The honey mustard glaze caramelizes in the oven, creating a sticky, golden crust that’s way better than anything you can fry.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 pounds chicken tenders
  • 3 tablespoons honey
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon whole grain mustard (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika (smoked or sweet)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a sheet pan with parchment paper or foil. If using a wire rack, place it on the pan now.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons honey, 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon whole grain mustard (if using), and 1 tablespoon olive oil until smooth.
  3. In a separate shallow bowl, combine 1 cup panko breadcrumbs, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon paprika, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Mix well.
  4. Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels. Add the chicken to the honey mustard sauce and toss until every piece is well coated.
  5. Working one piece at a time, transfer a coated tender to the panko mixture. Press the breadcrumbs onto all sides. Place the breaded tender on the prepared sheet pan. Repeat with remaining chicken, spacing tenders about an inch apart.
  6. Bake for 12 minutes. Flip each tender using tongs, then bake for another 8-10 minutes, until the coating is deep golden and crispy and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  7. Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 2-3 minutes. Sprinkle with fresh parsley if desired and serve immediately.

Notes

Pat the chicken dry to ensure the coating sticks. Use a light hand with the sauce to avoid soggy breading. For extra crunch, toast the panko in the oven at 350°F for 3-4 minutes before coating. Let the chicken rest after baking to keep the coating crispy. If the panko isn’t sticking, add a bit more honey to thicken the sauce.

Nutrition

Keywords: honey mustard chicken tenders, sheet pan chicken, crispy chicken tenders, easy chicken recipe, weeknight dinner