If you’re looking for a delightful way to jazz up your weeknight dinners or impress friends with minimal effort, this Air Fryer Chicken Tenders with Maple Mustard Dipping Sauce Recipe is exactly what you need. Crispy, flavorful chicken tenders meet the perfect balance of sweet and tangy in the maple mustard dipping sauce, making each bite irresistibly tasty. Thanks to the magic of the air fryer, these tenders are healthier without sacrificing that beloved crunch, and the seasoning brings an exciting twist to a classic dish. Get ready to have a new favorite on your menu that’s quick, simple, and downright delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps things wonderfully straightforward with only a handful of ingredients, each playing a vital role. From the savory burst of the Everything But The Bagel Seasoning to the creamy and sweet notes in the maple mustard dipping sauce, every component contributes to the incredible taste and texture.
- 1 lb chicken tenderloins: The perfect size for quick, even cooking and tender bites every time.
- Olive or avocado oil cooking spray: Helps create that irresistible crispy exterior while keeping things light.
- 2-3 tablespoons Everything But The Bagel Seasoning: A flavorful blend that delivers a wonderful crunch and savory punch.
- ¼ cup yellow mustard: Adds tang and depth to the dipping sauce, balancing the sweetness of maple syrup.
- 3 tablespoons maple syrup: Brings a natural, rich sweetness that pairs beautifully with mustard’s sharpness.
- 2 tablespoons mayo: Creates a creamy texture in the sauce, making it smooth and velvety for dipping.
How to Make Air Fryer Chicken Tenders with Maple Mustard Dipping Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Coat the Chicken
Start by giving your chicken tenderloins a light spray of olive or avocado oil cooking spray. This step is key because it helps the Everything But The Bagel Seasoning stick beautifully to the surface and ensures a crispy outer layer once air fried. After spraying, generously coat both sides of each tenderloin with the seasoning blend, creating those bold, crunchy bites you’re craving.
Step 2: Cook in the Air Fryer
Next, preheat your air fryer to 380°F. Place the seasoned chicken tenders in a single layer inside the basket, making sure they aren’t crowded. Cook them for about 12 to 14 minutes, flipping or shaking the basket halfway through to achieve an even golden crispness. Using a thermometer, check that the internal temperature has reached 165°F—this guarantees juicy and safe-to-eat chicken every time.
Step 3: Prepare the Maple Mustard Dipping Sauce
While the chicken is crisping up, whip together the dipping sauce. In a small bowl, mix the yellow mustard, maple syrup, and mayo until well combined. This sauce perfectly balances sweet, tangy, and creamy notes, making it the ideal partner for the savory chicken tenders.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
As soon as the chicken tenders come out of the air fryer, plate them up alongside your freshly made maple mustard dipping sauce. The combination is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s satisfyingly crunchy and packed with flavor with every bite.
How to Serve Air Fryer Chicken Tenders with Maple Mustard Dipping Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh garnishes can really elevate this meal. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or chives over the chicken tenders for a pop of color and a hint of herbal brightness. A wedge of lemon on the side also pairs wonderfully, providing an optional fresh squeeze that cuts through the richness and adds vibrancy.
Side Dishes
These chicken tenders are incredibly versatile and pair beautifully with a variety of sides. Consider serving them alongside crisp green salads, roasted vegetables, or even a creamy coleslaw for a classic combo. Crispy air-fried potatoes or sweet potato fries make for a comforting and hearty accompaniment, rounding out the meal perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to wow your guests or family? Arrange the chicken tenders on a large wooden board with small bowls of the maple mustard dipping sauce and some additional seasoning for extra crunch. You can also create mini slider sandwiches with soft buns, a lettuce leaf, and a dollop of sauce. This Air Fryer Chicken Tenders with Maple Mustard Dipping Sauce Recipe adapts effortlessly to both casual meals and fun, interactive dining experiences.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare!), place the chicken tenders in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure the dipping sauce is stored separately to maintain its fresh texture and flavor.
Freezing
For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked chicken tenders. Lay them out on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or zip bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. The sauce is best made fresh whenever possible, but you can freeze it too—just give it a good stir when thawed.
Reheating
To bring your tenders back to life, reheat them in the air fryer at 350°F for about 5 minutes until warmed and crispy again. This method preserves that sought-after crunch much better than the microwave. Serve immediately with freshly mixed dipping sauce for the best experience.
FAQs
Can I use regular chicken breasts instead of tenderloins?
Absolutely! Just slice the chicken breasts into strips similar in size to tenderloins for even cooking. The air fryer works well with these slices, though the cooking time might be slightly longer depending on thickness.
Is the Everything But The Bagel Seasoning essential?
While it’s the star for that signature savory crunch, you can substitute with your favorite spice blend or a simple mix of garlic powder, onion powder, sesame seeds, poppy seeds, and salt for a similar effect.
Can I make the dipping sauce ahead of time?
Yes, the maple mustard dipping sauce keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving to recombine any separation that might occur.
Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as your Everything But The Bagel Seasoning doesn’t contain gluten-containing additives, so be sure to check the label or make your own blend at home.
Can I bake the chicken tenders instead of air frying?
You sure can! Bake them at 400°F for 15 to 20 minutes on a parchment-lined sheet, flipping halfway through. They won’t be quite as crispy as in the air fryer, but still delicious.
Final Thoughts
This Air Fryer Chicken Tenders with Maple Mustard Dipping Sauce Recipe is such a simple yet unforgettable dish that’s sure to become a household favorite. With its quick prep time, incredible flavor combination, and health-conscious cooking method, it’s perfect for busy days or casual gatherings. Give it a try and enjoy the perfect balance of crispy chicken paired with a dipping sauce that’s sweet, tangy, and downright addictive!
Print
Air Fryer Chicken Tenders with Maple Mustard Dipping Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 8 minutes
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
This easy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders recipe delivers crispy, flavorful chicken coated in Everything But The Bagel seasoning, paired with a sweet and tangy maple mustard dipping sauce. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s a perfect weeknight dinner or snack that’s both simple to prepare and deliciously satisfying.
Ingredients
Chicken Tenders
- 1 lb chicken tenderloins
- Olive or avocado oil cooking spray
- 2–3 tablespoons Everything But The Bagel Seasoning
Maple Mustard Sauce
- ¼ cup yellow mustard
- 3 tablespoons maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
Instructions
- Coat the Chicken: Spray the chicken tenderloins lightly with olive or avocado oil cooking spray to help the seasoning stick and create a crispy exterior after cooking.
- Season the Chicken: Generously coat both sides of the sprayed chicken tenderloins with 2 to 3 tablespoons of Everything But The Bagel Seasoning, ensuring even coverage for maximum flavor.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) and allow it to preheat before cooking the chicken, which helps achieve even cooking and crispiness.
- Cook the Chicken: Place the seasoned chicken tenders into the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook them for 12 to 14 minutes, turning or shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Prepare the Maple Mustard Sauce: While the chicken is cooking, combine ¼ cup yellow mustard, 3 tablespoons maple syrup, and 2 tablespoons mayonnaise in a bowl. Whisk together until smooth and well blended.
- Serve: Once cooked, serve the crispy air fryer chicken tenders hot with the sweet and tangy maple mustard sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Use a digital meat thermometer to ensure chicken is cooked safely to 165°F internal temperature.
- Adjust the amount of Everything But The Bagel Seasoning based on your flavor preference.
- The maple mustard sauce can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the dipping sauce.
- If you don’t have an air fryer, you can bake the chicken tenders at 400°F for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
