If you’re craving a dish that’s irresistibly crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with flavor, then you’re in for a treat with this Air Fryer Chicken Tenders with Maple Mustard Sauce Recipe. The magic lies in how the chicken tenderloins get perfectly seasoned with Everything But The Bagel Seasoning and cooked to golden perfection in the air fryer, while the maple mustard sauce adds a luscious balance of sweet and tangy that’s simply unforgettable. This is comfort food elevated to a whole new level, and I can’t wait to share this favorite recipe with you!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for a few simple but essential ingredients that work together to create a symphony of flavors and textures. From the juicy chicken tenderloins to the savory seasoning and the sweet yet tangy sauce, every component plays a key part in making this dish truly special.
- Chicken tenderloins: The star of the show, tender and quick-cooking for juicy results every time.
- Olive or avocado oil cooking spray: Keeps the chicken crispy on the outside without adding extra oil.
- Everything But The Bagel Seasoning: Adds a wonderful crunch and savory flavor unexpectedly perfect on chicken.
- Yellow mustard: Provides a smooth, tangy base for the maple mustard sauce.
- Maple syrup: Brings natural sweetness that balances the savory and tangy notes.
- Mayonnaise: Adds creaminess to the sauce, making it luscious and smooth.
How to Make Air Fryer Chicken Tenders with Maple Mustard Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Coat the Chicken
Start by lightly spraying the chicken tenderloins with your chosen cooking spray. This helps the Everything But The Bagel Seasoning stick beautifully to the chicken and ensures a crispy finish. Next, generously coat both sides of each tenderloin with the seasoning. The combination of sesame seeds, salt, garlic, and onion in the seasoning really infuses the chicken with layers of flavor.
Step 2: Cook in the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 380°F to get that perfect cooking environment. Place the seasoned tenderloins inside, making sure they’re in a single layer for even cooking. Cook for 12 to 14 minutes, turning or shaking the basket halfway through. You’ll know they’re done when a food thermometer reads 165°F, ensuring juicy tenderness inside and a crisply seasoned outside.
Step 3: Prepare the Maple Mustard Sauce
While the chicken is cooking, whisk together the yellow mustard, maple syrup, and mayonnaise in a small bowl. This sauce is the heart of the dish, bringing a harmonious balance of sweet, tangy, and creamy flavors that perfectly complement the savory chicken tenders. It’s incredibly simple to make and can be adjusted to your preference by adding a little more maple syrup or mustard.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Once your chicken tenders are out of the air fryer, plate them up and generously spoon the maple mustard sauce alongside, or toss the tenders lightly in the sauce if you prefer every bite coated. The contrast of crispy chicken with smooth sauce is something you have to try to believe.
How to Serve Air Fryer Chicken Tenders with Maple Mustard Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra pop of color and texture, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley or chives on top of the chicken tenders just before serving. A light dusting of smoked paprika or a wedge of lemon for squeezing adds delightful brightness, too. These simple touches elevate the presentation and flavor at the same time.
Side Dishes
This Air Fryer Chicken Tenders with Maple Mustard Sauce Recipe pairs beautifully with crisp, fresh salads or roasted veggies like asparagus and Brussels sprouts. For a more indulgent meal, creamy mashed potatoes or sweet potato fries make for perfect companions. And of course, a crunchy slaw adds a refreshing contrast that keeps things balanced on your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress guests or make a fun family meal, try serving these chicken tenders on slider buns with a drizzle of the maple mustard sauce, lettuce, and pickles for a gourmet mini sandwich. Alternatively, slice the tenders on top of a vibrant grain bowl with quinoa, steamed kale, and avocado for a wholesome lunch option packed with flavor and texture.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover chicken tenders can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping the maple mustard sauce separate will help the chicken maintain its crispy texture. When ready to enjoy, reheat the tenders for the best results.
Freezing
If you want to freeze cooked chicken tenders, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. Freeze the sauce separately in a small container or freezer-safe bag to maintain freshness and texture.
Reheating
For reheating, the air fryer is your best friend for preserving the crispy coating—warm the tenders at 350°F for about 5 minutes until heated through. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep that delightful crunch. Warm the maple mustard sauce gently on the stove or microwave before serving.
FAQs
Can I use regular mustard instead of yellow mustard for the sauce?
Absolutely! Dijon or spicy brown mustard can add a different flavor profile that works wonderfully with the maple syrup, giving your sauce a unique twist. Just adjust quantities to balance the heat.
Is the Everything But The Bagel Seasoning necessary?
While it is a signature component that adds crunch and flavor, you can substitute with a mix of sesame seeds, poppy seeds, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt for a homemade version or try your favorite seasoning blend.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free Everything But The Bagel Seasoning and check other ingredients for hidden gluten. It’s a great option for those following gluten-free diets.
How can I make the chicken tenders extra crispy?
Lightly spraying the chicken with oil before seasoning and turning the tenders halfway through cooking helps develop that perfect crispy exterior. Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to allow proper air circulation.
What can I do if I don’t have an air fryer?
You can bake the chicken tenders in a conventional oven at 400°F for about 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway through to get even browning. While the texture will be slightly different, the flavors will still shine through beautifully.
Final Thoughts
Trust me when I say, this Air Fryer Chicken Tenders with Maple Mustard Sauce Recipe is a game-changer that you’ll want to add to your regular dinner rotation. It’s quick, easy, and full of flavor, making both weeknight meals and casual gatherings feel special. Give it a whirl—you might just find your new favorite way to enjoy chicken tenders!
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Air Fryer Chicken Tenders with Maple Mustard Sauce Recipe
- Total Time: 19 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Air Fryer Chicken Tenders recipe offers a quick, flavorful, and healthy way to enjoy crispy chicken with a tangy maple mustard dipping sauce. Perfectly seasoned with Everything But The Bagel seasoning, these tenderloins are air-fried to juicy perfection in just under 15 minutes, making it an ideal meal for busy weeknights.
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 mayo
Instructions
- Coat the Chicken: Spray the chicken tenderloins evenly with olive or avocado oil cooking spray, then generously coat both sides with the Everything But The Bagel seasoning to ensure a flavorful crust.
- Cook in Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C). Place the seasoned chicken tenderloins in the basket in a single layer and cook for 12-14 minutes, flipping or shaking the basket halfway through the cooking process to achieve even crispiness. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Prepare the Sauce: While the chicken cooks, combine the yellow mustard, maple syrup, and mayo in a small bowl. Mix thoroughly until smooth and well blended to create a tangy and sweet dipping sauce.
- Serve: Once the chicken tenders are cooked through and crispy, serve them hot alongside the maple mustard sauce for dipping. Enjoy immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it is safely cooked.
- You can substitute mayo with Greek yogurt for a lighter sauce option.
- Adjust the amount of Everything But The Bagel seasoning to taste if you prefer more or less seasoning.
- For extra crispiness, consider turning the chicken tenderloins more than once during air frying.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
