If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with tangy, savory goodness and comes together quickly, you’re going to love this Mustard Chicken Tenders Recipe. Tender, juicy chicken infused with the rich flavors of Dijon and whole grain mustard creates a perfect balance of zest and warmth. With a hint of honey to round it out and simple seasonings that highlight the natural flavors, this recipe is an absolute winner for weeknight dinners or anytime you want a comforting meal that doesn’t disappoint. It’s one of those dishes you’ll find yourself making over and over again, guaranteed to become a favorite in your rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward yet essential, each playing a unique role to bring out the full character of your mustard chicken tenders. From the sharp tang of Dijon mustard to the subtle earthiness of herbs, every component enhances the overall flavor, texture, and color of the dish.
- 1 lb chicken tenders: Naturally tender and quick to cook, perfect for an easy meal.
- ¼ cup Dijon mustard: The star of the recipe, this adds sharp, creamy complexity.
- 2 tablespoons whole grain or yellow mustard: Brings a pleasant texture and mild spice contrast to Dijon.
- 2 tablespoons honey (optional): Balances tanginess with a touch of natural sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds moisture and helps the marinade coat the chicken evenly.
- 2 cloves garlic minced: Imparts a warm, savory depth.
- ½ teaspoon paprika: Adds a subtle smoky warmth and vibrant color.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors naturally.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Offers gentle heat and spiciness.
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary (optional): Infuses an herbal note that complements mustard perfectly.
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional): Brightens the dish with fresh color and mild flavor.
How to Make Mustard Chicken Tenders Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Flavorful Marinade
Start by combining Dijon mustard, whole grain or yellow mustard, honey if you like a little sweetness, olive oil, minced garlic, paprika, salt, pepper, and your choice of dried herbs in a large bowl. Whisking them together thoroughly ensures every bite will be packed with flavor that clings to the chicken tenders.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Now, toss your chicken tenders in the marinade until each piece is well coated. This step is crucial because marinating for at least 30 minutes (or longer if you have time) tenderizes the chicken while infusing it with those bright, zesty flavors you crave. Cover the bowl and pop it into the refrigerator to let the magic happen.
Step 3: Preheat and Prepare for Baking
Preheat your oven to 400°F. While it’s warming up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or give it a light greasing. This little prep work helps keep the chicken from sticking and cleans up fast.
Step 4: Bake the Chicken Tenders to Perfection
Arrange the marinated tenders in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake them for 18 to 22 minutes, flipping halfway through so both sides get beautifully golden and cooked evenly. The chicken is done when its internal temperature reaches 165°F, guaranteeing juicy, safe-to-eat meat.
Step 5: Optional Broil for a Golden Finish
If you love a little extra crisp on your tenders, pop them under the broiler for 1 to 2 minutes at the end. Keep a close eye to avoid burning, but this step adds a gorgeous golden crust that’s irresistible.
How to Serve Mustard Chicken Tenders Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of chopped parsley on top adds a fresh burst of color and a mild, herbal flavor that liven up the dish visually and on the palate. This simple touch makes the chicken tenders even more inviting and appetizing when served.
Side Dishes
These mustard chicken tenders are so versatile they pair beautifully with a wide range of sides. Roasted vegetables like carrots, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts add texture and earthiness. A fresh leafy salad keeps things light, or you might like some creamy mashed potatoes for comfort food vibes. Even a simple side of rice or quinoa lets the mustard flavors shine.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to mix things up? Serve the chicken tenders over a bed of mixed greens drizzled with a light vinaigrette for a lunch that feels special yet easy. Alternatively, use the tenders in wraps or sandwiches with crisp lettuce and a tangy sauce for a handheld dinner. Pairing them with a mustard-based dipping sauce or garlic aioli also adds an extra fun element for dipping and sharing.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, place leftover mustard chicken tenders in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They maintain great flavor and texture, making them perfect for quick lunches or snacks.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked chicken tenders by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and then placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. Just be sure to thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve their juicy goodness.
Reheating
Reheat leftover tenders in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until warmed through. This method helps maintain their texture better than microwaving, so the chicken stays tender without getting rubbery. If you’re in a rush, a quick microwave on medium power can do, but watch carefully to avoid overcooking.
FAQs
Can I use other types of mustard for this recipe?
Absolutely! Dijon and whole grain mustard are preferred for their balance of sharpness and texture, but yellow mustard or spicy brown mustard can be used to customize the flavor to your liking.
Is it necessary to marinate the chicken for 8 hours?
Marinating for 30 minutes is enough to get good flavor, but letting it sit for several hours or overnight intensifies the taste and makes the chicken even more tender. It’s a nice step if you have the time.
How can I make these chicken tenders crispy?
After marinating, you can coat the tenders lightly with seasoned breadcrumbs before baking. This creates a delightful crispy exterior while keeping the inside juicy and flavorful.
Are mustard chicken tenders gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you skip any breadcrumbs or use gluten-free breadcrumbs, this dish is naturally gluten-free, making it great for those with gluten sensitivities.
What dipping sauces complement the Mustard Chicken Tenders Recipe?
Great choices include extra mustard, ranch dressing, garlic aioli, or even a spicy sriracha mayo. The tangy, creamy, or spicy additions each add a fun layer of flavor and keep things interesting.
Final Thoughts
This Mustard Chicken Tenders Recipe is a fantastic combination of ease, flavor, and versatility that you’ll want to keep in your recipe arsenal. Whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress friends, it delivers consistently satisfying results. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite way to enjoy chicken tenders!
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Mustard Chicken Tenders Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes (plus marinating time)
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Tender chicken tenders coated in a flavorful honey mustard marinade and baked to perfection. This easy, gluten-free recipe offers a balanced blend of tangy Dijon and whole grain mustard with subtle hints of garlic and herbs, delivering a juicy and savory main dish perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 lb chicken tenders
Marinade
- ¼ cup Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons whole grain or yellow mustard
- 2 tablespoons honey (optional for sweetness)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary (optional)
Garnish
- Chopped parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard, whole grain or yellow mustard, honey (if using), olive oil, minced garlic, paprika, salt, pepper, and dried thyme or rosemary until well combined.
- Marinate the chicken: Add the chicken tenders to the marinade and toss until each piece is evenly coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 8 hours for more intense flavor penetration.
- Preheat the oven: Set the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
- Bake the chicken: Arrange the marinated chicken tenders in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 18–22 minutes, flipping the tenders halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is golden brown.
- Optional broil: For an extra golden and slightly crispy finish, broil the chicken tenders for an additional 1–2 minutes under the oven’s broiler, watching carefully to avoid burning.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired and serve warm. These chicken tenders pair wonderfully with roasted vegetables, salads, or dipping sauces like extra mustard, ranch, or garlic aioli.
Notes
- Serve with roasted vegetables, over a fresh salad, or with your favorite dipping sauce such as extra mustard, ranch, or garlic aioli.
- For a crispy exterior, coat the tenders in seasoned breadcrumbs after marinating before baking.
- Marinating for longer than 30 minutes enhances flavor but avoid exceeding 8 hours to prevent texture changes.
- This recipe is naturally gluten-free; however, adding breadcrumbs will add gluten.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
