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Baked chicken tenders have gained immense popularity as a healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken. They offer the same crispy texture that many love, but without the excess oil and calories. This recipe for Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders with Sweet & Spicy Dipping Sauce is not only delicious but also family-friendly, making it a perfect choice for both kids and adults. The combination of crunchy, golden-brown chicken tenders paired with a flavorful dipping sauce that balances sweet and spicy flavors will surely please any palate.

Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders with Dipping Sauce

Discover a delicious twist on a classic favorite with these crispy baked chicken tenders paired with a sweet and spicy dipping sauce. This family-friendly recipe offers the same satisfying crunch as fried chicken but with fewer calories and healthier ingredients. Perfect for any occasion, these tender strips are easy to customize and sure to please everyone at the table. Enjoy them as a main dish, appetizer, or snack with your choice of dipping sauce!
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Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Tenders:

1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips

1 cup buttermilk

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 cup panko breadcrumbs

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Cooking spray or olive oil for spraying

For the Dipping Sauce:

½ cup mayonnaise

2 tablespoons honey

1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust for spiciness)

1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

Marinate the Chicken:

    - In a large bowl, combine buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Whisk until well combined.

      - Add the chicken strips to the buttermilk mixture, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or up to overnight for extra flavor).

        Prepare the Breading:

          - Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.

            - In a separate shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese.

              Bread the Chicken:

                - Remove the chicken from the marinade and shake off any excess liquid. Dredge each strip in the panko and Parmesan mixture, pressing gently to adhere the coating. Place the breaded tenders on the prepared baking sheet.

                  Bake the Tenders:

                    - Lightly spray the tops of the chicken tenders with cooking spray or drizzle with a little olive oil to help them crisp up in the oven.

                      - Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden brown and crispy. Flip the tenders halfway through baking for even crispiness.

                        Make the Dipping Sauce:

                          - In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, honey, sriracha, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard. Stir until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

                            Serve:

                              - Once the chicken tenders are done baking, let them cool for a couple of minutes. Serve them warm alongside the sweet and spicy dipping sauce.

                                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 min | 1 hr 15 min | 4 servings