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Chicken tenders have long been a beloved staple in family kitchens across the globe. Their tender, juicy meat and incredible versatility make them a perfect option for everything from weeknight dinners to special occasions. Whether enjoyed as a standalone dish or served with sides, chicken tenders are a go-to favorite for both kids and adults alike. However, traditional frying methods can leave you feeling heavy and greasy. Enter the crispy baked chicken tender—a healthier alternative that retains all the flavor and satisfaction without the excess oil.

Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders with Dipping Sauce

Elevate your dinner game with these delicious Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders complemented by a zesty dipping sauce. Perfect for families and entertaining, this healthier alternative to traditional fried tenders is packed with flavor and crunch. The secret lies in marinating chicken in buttermilk for tenderness and using panko breadcrumbs for extra crispiness. Paired with a tangy sauce made from Greek yogurt and Dijon, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table. Dive into this recipe for a satisfying and guilt-free meal that's easy to make!
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Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Tenders:

1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut 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 lemon juice

1 teaspoon garlic powder

Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions
 

Marinate the Chicken: In a mixing bowl, add the chicken strips and pour in the buttermilk, ensuring that each piece is fully submerged. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or let it marinate overnight for optimal tenderness and flavor absorption.

    Prepare the Coating: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and position a wire rack on top. This setup will allow hot air to circulate around the chicken, yielding a perfectly crispy finish.

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

        Coat the Chicken: Once the chicken has marinated, remove it from the buttermilk. First, dredge each chicken strip in the flour mixture, shaking off the excess. Then, dip it back into the buttermilk before thoroughly coating it with the panko breadcrumbs. This method of triple-dipping will result in an extra crunchy exterior.

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

            Make the Dipping Sauce: While the chicken is baking, prepare the zesty dipping sauce. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, honey, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.

              Serve: Once the chicken tenders are beautifully golden and crispy, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve warm with the zesty dipping sauce on the side for a delightful dipping experience.

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

                  - Presentation Tips: Place the chicken tenders on a large serving platter lined with fresh parsley for a pop of color. Serve the zesty dipping sauce in a small bowl in the center for easy access. Don't forget to garnish with lemon wedges for an extra zesty touch!