Crispy Maple Pecan Crusted Chicken Tenders
These crispy chicken tenders are coated in a delicious maple pecan crust, offering a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors with a satisfying crunch.
Equipment
- 1 Baking Sheet lined with parchment paper
- 1 shallow dish for flour mixture
- 1 Mixing Bowl for egg mixture
- 1 shallow dish for pecan mixture
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 1/2 pounds chicken tenders
Flour Mixture
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Egg Mixture
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
Pecan Mixture
- 1 cup pecans finely chopped
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels. In a shallow dish, combine flour, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Dredge each tender in the flour mixture.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, maple syrup, and Dijon mustard until well combined.
- In another shallow dish, mix the chopped pecans and panko breadcrumbs. Dip each floured chicken tender into the egg mixture, then press into the pecan mixture.
- Place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.
- Allow the tenders to rest for 10 minutes before serving to help the crust set.
Serving
- Serve the chicken tenders warm with your choice of dipping sauces and side dishes.
Storage
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to retain crispiness.
Notes
Pro Tips: Ensure even coating by pressing the pecan mixture onto the chicken. Ingredient Substitutions: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free option. How to Serve: Pair with a crisp salad or sweet potato fries. Storage & Freshness: Store in airtight containers and reheat in the oven. Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare the crust mixture in advance and store it in the fridge.