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Chicken tenders have long held a cherished place in the hearts and stomachs of food lovers everywhere. This beloved comfort food is not just for kids; it appeals to adults seeking a satisfying and versatile meal option. Traditionally, chicken tenders are deep-fried, resulting in a crispy exterior and tender interior that is hard to resist. However, the frying method often leads to higher calorie counts and unhealthy fats. This is where the baked version shines, offering all the flavor and crunch without the guilt. In this recipe, we'll explore how to create Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders that are not only delicious but also healthier. To elevate your dining experience, we’ll include a zesty dipping sauce that perfectly complements the tenders, adding a burst of flavor to each bite.

Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders with Dipping Sauce

Experience the joy of homemade Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders paired with a zesty dipping sauce. This healthier alternative to traditional fried tenders promises all the flavor and crunch without the guilt. Using boneless, skinless chicken breasts marinated in buttermilk, coated with a flavorful blend of seasoned flour and panko breadcrumbs, these tenders are baked to perfection. Serve them with a tangy dipping sauce for a delightful meal that's perfect for any occasion!
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Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Tenders:

1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips

1 cup buttermilk

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 cup panko breadcrumbs

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs

Salt and pepper, to taste

Cooking spray or olive oil, for drizzling

For the Zesty Dipping Sauce:

½ cup plain Greek yogurt

¼ cup mayonnaise

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

1 tablespoon honey

1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

1 teaspoon garlic powder

Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions
 

Marinate the Chicken: In a large mixing bowl, toss the chicken strips with the buttermilk, ensuring they are fully submerged and coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. For a deeper flavor and tenderness, marinate overnight.

    Prepare the Coating: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set a wire rack on top. This setup allows hot air to circulate the chicken, creating a crispy exterior.

      Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper until evenly combined. In another bowl, place the panko breadcrumbs and set both bowls aside.

        Coat the Chicken: After marinating, take the chicken strips out of the buttermilk. Dredge each strip in the seasoned flour mixture, tapping off any excess. Next, dip it back into the buttermilk, and finally coat thoroughly with the panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere. This triple-dipping technique is key to achieving a satisfying crunch.

          Bake the Chicken: Arrange the coated chicken tenders on the prepared wire rack. Lightly spray or drizzle with cooking spray or olive oil. Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, flipping the tenders halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).

            Make the Dipping Sauce: While the chicken is baking, prepare the zesty dipping sauce. In a small mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, honey, lemon juice, garlic powder, and season with salt and pepper. Whisk until smooth and well blended. Adjust the seasoning to taste and keep it chilled in the refrigerator until serving.

              Serve: Once the chicken tenders are cooked to a perfect golden brown and have cooled slightly, serve them warm accompanied by the zesty dipping sauce on the side.

                Prep Time: 15 mins | Total Time: 35 mins | Servings: 4

                  Presentation Tips: For an appealing display, arrange the chicken tenders on a serving platter, garnished with fresh parsley or lemon wedges for a pop of color. Serve the dipping sauce in a small bowl for easy access. Enjoy!