Tony's Chicken Tenders with Honey Mustard Sauce
This recipe provides a simple method for preparing classic crispy chicken tenders with a flavorful seasoned panko crust. Served with a homemade tangy-sweet honey mustard dipping sauce, these tenders are perfect as an appetizer or main course for an easy, family-friendly meal. The process involves breading chicken strips and deep-frying them until golden brown.
Equipment
- 1 Large heavy-bottomed pot For deep frying
- 1 Deep-Fry Thermometer Crucial for maintaining oil temperature
- 3 Shallow Bowls For the breading station (flour, egg, panko)
- 1 Sheet Tray Lined with paper towels for draining fried chicken
- 1 Whisk For beating eggs and preparing the sauce
Ingredients
Main
- Peanut oil for frying
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 3 eggs
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups panko bread crumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon lemon-pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- Honey Mustard recipe follows
- 1/2 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/2 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoons lemon juice
- Salt and pepper
Instructions
- Preheat oil to 350 degrees F.
- Cut the chicken breasts into long strips and set aside.
- Beat the 3 eggs in a separate bowl and measure the flour into another separate dish.
- Measure the panko into a pie plate or shallow bowl and season with garlic powder, lemon-pepper, cayenne, salt and pepper.
- Dip the chicken strips into the flour, the beaten egg and then dredge them into the seasoned panko.
- Fry in the hot peanut oil for 6 to 8 minutes, until golden brown, and remove to a paper towel lined sheet tray. Serve with Honey Mustard sauce.
Notes
Maintaining the oil temperature at a consistent 350°F (175°C) is paramount for perfectly crispy, non-greasy tenders; use a deep-fry thermometer and adjust heat as needed. Fry in small batches to avoid overcrowding, which drops oil temperature and results in soggy chicken. The seasoned panko is the core flavor driver, ensure even coating. For an extra tender result, consider a brief buttermilk soak before breading. Ensure adequate drainage on a paper-towel-lined sheet tray. The honey mustard sauce can be prepared in advance and chilled for optimal flavor.