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homemade Baked Black Pepper Ranch Chicken Fingers with Honey Mustard. recipe photo

Baked Black Pepper Ranch Chicken Fingers with Honey Mustard.

Crispy baked chicken tenders seasoned with black pepper ranch crumbs and served with a tangy honey mustard.
Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time20 minutes
Total Time40 minutes
Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds boneless chicken tenders
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 2 cups finely crushed corn flakes
  • 2 tablespoons whole wheat or all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon dried chives
  • 1 tablespoon dried parsley
  • 2 teaspoons dried dill
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper or chipotle chile powder use more or less to taste
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • black pepper to taste
  • extra virgin olive oil for brushing
  • chopped fresh chives or parsley for serving
  • 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil for honey mustard
  • 1/2 lemon juice of 1/2 a lemon
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper for honey mustard
  • kosher salt and black pepper to taste for honey mustard

Instructions

  • Place the chicken tenders in a gallon zip-top bag and pour in the buttermilk; toss to coat and refrigerate briefly if desired.
  • Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • In a medium bowl combine the crushed corn flakes, flour, dried parsley, dried chives, dried dill, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, kosher salt, and a generous grind of black pepper; stir to mix evenly.
  • Remove each chicken piece from the buttermilk, letting excess drip off, then dredge in the crumb mixture pressing gently so the crumbs adhere; place on the prepared baking sheet without crowding (use a second sheet if needed).
  • Lightly brush or drizzle the coated chicken with extra virgin olive oil and bake for 15–20 minutes, until cooked through and golden; internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
  • While the chicken bakes, make the honey mustard: combine Dijon mustard, honey, olive oil, lemon juice, 1/4 teaspoon cayenne, and salt and pepper in a jar or bowl and whisk or shake until smooth.
  • Serve the chicken fingers topped with flaky salt and chopped fresh chives or parsley with the honey mustard on the side for dipping.

Equipment

  • gallon zip-top bag
  • medium bowl
  • Baking Sheet
  • Parchment Paper
  • pastry brush
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • small jar or bowl

Notes

  • Do not overcrowd the baking sheet to keep the coating crisp.
  • Press crumbs firmly onto the chicken so they adhere during baking.
  • Adjust cayenne in the coating and sauce to control heat.
  • Use parchment for easier cleanup.