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Delicious Crispy Chicken Tenders with Honey Mustard Sauce

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the allure of crispy chicken tenders. These golden-brown strips of succulent chicken are perfect for family dinners, casual get-togethers, or even a special treat during a cosy movie night. Paired with a tangy honey mustard sauce, they become a flavour sensation that’s hard to resist. Let’s delve into the delightful world of crispy chicken tenders and learn how to make them at home.

The Perfect Chicken Tender

To begin, choosing the right cut of chicken is crucial. Chicken tenders, or tenderloins, are the small strips of meat that lie beneath the breast. They are incredibly tender and cook fairly quickly, making them ideal for frying. If you can’t find tenders, you can easily slice boneless, skinless chicken breasts into strips of a similar size.

The Coating: A Crunch Above the Rest

What makes chicken tenders truly special is their coating. The key to achieving that deep golden, ultra-crispy exterior lies in the combination of flavours and textures. Here’s a simple yet effective recipe for the coating:

Ingredients:

• 250g of plain flour
• 2 large eggs
• 150g of breadcrumbs (panko for extra crunch)
• Salt and pepper
• A pinch of paprika (for added flavour, optional)

Method:

1. Prepare the Breading Stations: Set up three shallow dishes. In the first, mix the flour with a pinch of salt, pepper, and paprika. In the second, whisk the eggs until smooth. In the third, place the breadcrumbs.

2. Coat the Chicken: Take each chicken tender and first coat it in the seasoned flour, shaking off the excess. Then, dip it into the egg mixture, allowing any extra egg to drip off. Finally, press the chicken into the breadcrumbs, ensuring an even, thick coating.

3. Chill (optional): For an even crispier texture, let the coated tenders rest in the fridge for about 30 minutes before frying. This helps the coating adhere better during cooking.

Cooking the Tenders

You can choose between frying or baking your chicken tenders, depending on your preference.

Frying:

• Heat a generous amount of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or a deep fryer to around 180°C (350°F).
• Carefully lower the chicken tenders into the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
• Remove the tenders and place them on a plate lined with kitchen paper to drain excess oil.

Baking (Healthier Option):

• Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking tray with parchment paper and lightly oil it.
• Arrange the coated tenders on the tray and spray the tops with a little oil to help them crisp up. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and cooked through.

The Honey Mustard Sauce

No chicken tender is complete without a delicious dip. The sweetness of honey combined with the sharpness of mustard creates a perfect harmony of flavours. Here’s a quick recipe for homemade honey mustard sauce:

Ingredients:

• 3 tablespoons of Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons of honey
• 1 tablespoon of mayonnaise (optional, for creaminess)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Method:

1. In a small bowl, combine the Dijon mustard, honey, and mayonnaise (if using).
2. Mix until smooth, adjusting the sweetness or tanginess by adding more honey or mustard to suit your taste.
3. Season with salt and pepper, then serve alongside your crispy chicken tenders.

Serving Suggestions

These crispy chicken tenders are incredibly versatile. Serve them on a bed of fresh salad leaves, with sweet potato fries, or alongside a platter of vegetable sticks for dipping. They also make a fantastic addition to wraps and sandwiches, bringing a satisfying crunch and flavour to any meal.

Conclusion

Crispy chicken tenders with honey mustard sauce offer a delightful culinary experience that can brighten any occasion. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or hosting a gathering, this dish is sure to please palates of all ages. With the right ingredients and a little love, you can create a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own kitchen. So roll up your sleeves, get cooking, and enjoy every tasty bite!

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