If you’re craving something irresistibly crispy yet tender, paired with a burst of bright, sweet, and tangy flavor, then you’re in for a treat with this Baked Chicken Tenders with Honey Lemon Dipping Sauce Recipe. It’s a delightful twist on a beloved classic, where golden baked chicken tenders meet a luscious honey lemon glaze and a creamy, zesty dipping sauce. The combination is simply unbeatable—comforting, fresh, and perfect for any meal that calls for a little extra love and flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Baked Chicken Tenders with Honey Lemon Dipping Sauce Recipe has a starring role, coming together to deliver amazing texture, vibrant flavor, and a gorgeous look. From the crunchy panko crumbs to the zesty lemon, each element is simple yet essential.
- 1 pound chicken fillets: Choose fresh, tender chicken fillets for juicy and perfectly cooked tenders.
- 1 cup panko crumbs: These Japanese-style breadcrumbs add an irresistible crunch to the coating.
- 1/4 cup milk: Used to help the egg form a smooth batter for coating the chicken evenly.
- 1 egg: Acts as a binding agent to ensure the panko sticks beautifully to the tenders.
- Juice + zest of one lemon: Brings a fresh, citrusy brightness that cuts through the richness.
- 2 teaspoons white vinegar: Adds subtle acidity, balancing out the sweetness in the glaze.
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses mild savory notes that enhance overall flavor depth.
- Salt & pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning and bringing all the flavors to life.
- 1/2 cup honey: The star of the glaze, lending sweetness and sticky glossiness.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Adds creamy tang to the dipping sauce for a perfect contrast.
- 3 tablespoons mayo: Brings smooth richness to the dipping sauce.
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce: Gives the dipping sauce a subtle umami kick.
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice: Adds a fresh zing to the dipping sauce that pairs beautifully with the tenders.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Rounds out the dipping sauce with gentle savory warmth.
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley: Provides a hint of herbaceous color and a fresh finish.
How to Make Baked Chicken Tenders with Honey Lemon Dipping Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F and adjusting the oven rack to the top third. This positioning helps the chicken tenders develop a beautifully golden crust. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a reliable nonstick surface to keep cleanup easy and ensure the tenders don’t stick.
Step 2: Set Up Your Breading Stations
Create two bowls for dipping—one filled with the panko crumbs, the other with a smooth blend of beaten egg and milk. This simple setup helps you achieve the signature crispy coating that’s light and crunchy rather than heavy or soggy.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken Tenders
Take each chicken fillet and immerse it first in the egg mixture, letting any excess drip off so the coating isn’t too thick. Then, press it carefully into the panko crumbs, ensuring every nook and cranny is covered. Place the coated chicken tenders neatly on your prepared baking sheet, ready to bake.
Step 4: Bake Until Golden and Juicy
Bake the chicken tenders for 15 to 20 minutes until they’re cooked through and the coating is crisp and golden. The baking time locks in juiciness while developing that perfect crunch we crave, making these tenders a healthier alternative to fried versions without sacrificing flavor.
Step 5: Make the Honey Lemon Glaze
While the chicken bakes, combine the lemon juice, lemon zest, white vinegar, garlic powder, honey, salt, and pepper in a small saucepan. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for about 5 minutes to thicken and intensify the flavors. This glaze is the magic touch that makes the Baked Chicken Tenders with Honey Lemon Dipping Sauce Recipe so special.
Step 6: Whip Up the Creamy Dipping Sauce
In a small bowl, mix sour cream, mayo, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, garlic powder, parsley, and salt and pepper until smooth and creamy. This sauce offers a cool, tangy counterpart to the warm, sticky-sweet glaze and crunchy chicken, creating a perfectly balanced bite every time.
Step 7: Serve It Up with Style
Once your chicken tenders are fresh out of the oven, gently toss them in the honey lemon glaze, coating each morsel with that irresistible shine and flavor. Serve immediately with the creamy dipping sauce on the side for dunking. The combination is as fun to eat as it is delicious.
How to Serve Baked Chicken Tenders with Honey Lemon Dipping Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or a light dusting of lemon zest over the tenders just before serving for a pop of color and a fragrant hint of freshness that elevates the whole dish visually and gastronomically.
Side Dishes
These tenders pair wonderfully with crisp garden salads, roasted sweet potatoes, or even a simple coleslaw for a refreshing crunch. For a heartier meal, consider creamy mashed potatoes or buttery corn on the cob, both of which complement the sweet and tangy glaze beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve these tenders on skewers with small bowls of the dipping sauce nestled alongside. Alternatively, create a casual platter with an array of fresh veggies and fruit slices that balance the rich flavors and invite communal sharing.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers (which might be hard to believe), store the chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the honey lemon glaze and dipping sauce separate to prevent sogginess and preserve their unique textures and tastes.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze baked chicken tenders on a baking sheet first until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep their best quality for up to 2 months. Freeze the sauces separately in small portions for convenience.
Reheating
When ready to enjoy again, reheat your tenders in a hot oven or air fryer to restore crispness without drying them out. Avoid microwaving if you can, as it tends to make the coating tough or soggy. Add fresh drizzle of the honey lemon glaze after warming and serve with the chilled dipping sauce.
FAQs
Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of panko?
You can certainly use regular breadcrumbs, but panko crumbs are preferred for their lighter, airier texture which creates a crispier crust. Regular breadcrumbs might result in a denser coating.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
This recipe isn’t gluten-free as is because of the panko breadcrumbs. However, you can substitute with gluten-free panko for a similar crunch and still enjoy the full flavor of the dish.
Can I make the honey lemon glaze ahead of time?
Absolutely! The glaze can be prepared a day or two in advance and stored in the fridge. Gently rewarm it before coating the tenders to restore its luscious consistency.
What’s the best way to ensure chicken tenders stay juicy?
Don’t overbake! Keep an eye on cooking times and use an instant-read thermometer if you have one—the tenders are done at 165°F internal temperature. Letting them rest a few minutes before serving also helps redistribute juices.
Can I bake these tenders without egg?
For an egg-free option, you can replace the egg with buttermilk or a flaxseed mixture (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tbsp water). This will still help the breadcrumbs adhere while accommodating allergies or preferences.
Final Thoughts
Give this Baked Chicken Tenders with Honey Lemon Dipping Sauce Recipe a try when you want an easy, flavorful, and impressive dish that delights kids and adults alike. Its perfect balance of crunch, zest, sweetness, and creaminess makes it a go-to for busy weeknights or casual entertaining. Once you taste that sticky honey lemon glaze paired with tender baked chicken and the tangy dipping sauce, I’m sure it’ll become one of your new favorites too!
Print
Baked Chicken Tenders with Honey Lemon Dipping Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Total Time: 25-30 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Baked Chicken Tenders are crispy, flavorful, and coated with a zesty honey lemon glaze that perfectly complements the crunchy panko crust. Accompanied by a creamy, tangy dipping sauce, this quick and easy recipe is perfect for a satisfying meal or snack without the guilt of frying.
Ingredients
Chicken Tenders
- 1 pound chicken fillets
- 1 cup panko crumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 egg
- Juice and zest of one lemon
- 2 teaspoons white vinegar
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt & pepper to taste
Honey Lemon Glaze
- 1/2 cup honey
- Juice and zest of one lemon
- 2 teaspoons white vinegar
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt & pepper to taste
Dipping Sauce
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and place the rack in the top third of the oven. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or use a good non-stick sheet to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Coating Bowls: In one bowl, whisk together the egg and milk thoroughly. In a second bowl, place the panko crumbs ready for coating.
- Coat Chicken: Dip each chicken fillet first into the egg and milk mixture, allowing any excess to drip off, then dredge it in the panko crumbs ensuring an even coating. Lay the coated chicken tenders onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake Chicken: Bake the chicken tenders in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until fully cooked through and golden brown on the outside.
- Prepare Honey Lemon Glaze: While the chicken bakes, combine the lemon juice and zest, white vinegar, garlic powder, honey, and salt and pepper in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce to medium-low heat and simmer for about 5 minutes until the glaze thickens slightly and reduces.
- Make Dipping Sauce: In a small bowl, mix together the sour cream, mayonnaise, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, garlic powder, chopped parsley, and salt and pepper. Stir until well combined and set aside.
- Serve: Once the chicken tenders are baked and hot, dip them in the honey lemon glaze using tongs or fingers for even coverage. Serve immediately with the creamy dipping sauce on the side for a delicious combination of flavors.
Notes
- You can substitute regular chicken breasts cut into strips if chicken tenders are unavailable.
- For extra crispiness, you may broil the chicken for the last 1-2 minutes but watch closely to prevent burning.
- The honey lemon glaze can be adjusted for sweetness by adding more or less honey to your taste.
- The dipping sauce can be made ahead of time and refrigerated for up to 2 days.
