Baked Hot Honey Mustard Pretzel Chicken Fingers

If you’re looking for a crispy, flavorful chicken dish with a twist, these Baked Hot Honey Mustard Pretzel Chicken Fingers are the perfect choice. The combination of honey mustard and hot sauce gives the chicken tenders a sweet and spicy kick, while the pretzel crumbs create a crunchy, savory coating. This dish is baked to perfection for a healthier alternative to fried chicken, but it doesn’t sacrifice on taste or texture. Whether you’re preparing a meal for the family or hosting a party, these chicken fingers will definitely be a hit.

The rich flavor of honey mustard with the heat of hot sauce pairs wonderfully with the crunchiness of pretzel crumbs. It’s a satisfying and easy-to-make dish that can be ready in under 40 minutes. These chicken fingers are perfect for dipping in extra honey mustard or your favorite sauce, making them an ideal snack, appetizer, or main course. Plus, they’re baked instead of fried, so you can enjoy all the indulgent flavors without the guilt.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Crunchy and Flavorful

The pretzel coating adds a satisfying crunch, while the honey mustard and hot sauce mixture brings a sweet and spicy flavor to each bite.

2. Quick and Easy

With just a few ingredients and a short cooking time, you can prepare these chicken fingers in under 40 minutes.

3. Baked, Not Fried

These chicken fingers are baked, not fried, making them a healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken tenders while still keeping all the flavor.

4. Perfect for Dipping

Serve these chicken fingers with extra honey mustard, ranch, or your favorite dipping sauce for added flavor.

5. Kid-Friendly

The sweet and spicy combination of honey mustard and hot sauce is a crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults, making it a great family meal.

Ingredients

• Chicken tenders
• Honey mustard
• Hot sauce
• Pretzel crumbs
• Salt and pepper

Variations

• Spicy Heat: For an extra kick, increase the amount of hot sauce or use a spicier variety of hot sauce.
• Sweet and Savory: Add a drizzle of honey over the chicken tenders after baking for a balanced sweet-savory flavor.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pretzels and ensure the hot sauce and honey mustard are also gluten-free for a delicious gluten-free version.
• Cheesy: Add grated Parmesan cheese to the pretzel crumb coating for a cheesy twist.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C), ensuring it’s hot enough to crisp up the chicken tenders.

Step 2: Make the Honey Mustard Mixture

In a small bowl, mix together the honey mustard and hot sauce until well combined. This mixture will provide a flavorful coating for the chicken tenders.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Dip each chicken tender into the honey mustard mixture, making sure it’s fully coated. Then, roll the chicken in the pretzel crumbs, pressing gently to ensure they stick to the chicken.

Step 4: Prepare for Baking

Place the coated chicken tenders onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Season them with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Bake

Bake the chicken tenders in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden brown and crispy.

Step 6: Serve

Once the chicken is done, remove it from the oven and serve hot. Enjoy with your favorite dipping sauce or extra honey mustard.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Pretzel Coating: For an extra crispy coating, press the pretzel crumbs onto the chicken tenders before baking to ensure they stick well.
• Do Not Overcrowd the Pan: If making a large batch, use two baking sheets to ensure the chicken tenders bake evenly and get crispy all around.
• Check Chicken Temperature: To ensure the chicken is cooked through, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
• Spicy Sauce Options: If you prefer a milder version, reduce the hot sauce, or try using a sweet chili sauce for a different flavor.

How to Serve

These baked hot honey mustard pretzel chicken fingers are perfect for serving as an appetizer, snack, or main dish. Pair them with a side of French fries, a simple salad, or even some crispy roasted vegetables for a complete meal. They also make a great addition to any party spread or game day gathering. Don’t forget to serve with extra honey mustard or your favorite dipping sauce for an extra burst of flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore their crispiness.

Freezing

You can freeze the uncooked chicken tenders before baking. Arrange them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to cook, bake directly from frozen at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes.

Reheating

To reheat, place the chicken tenders on a baking sheet and heat at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes or until hot and crispy.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken tenders?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but you’ll need to cut them into strips to match the size of tenders.

2. Can I make these chicken fingers ahead of time?

You can prepare the chicken and coat it with the pretzel crumbs in advance. Just store it in the fridge and bake when ready to serve.

3. What’s the best way to make these spicier?

You can increase the hot sauce or add some red pepper flakes to the honey mustard mixture for extra heat.

4. Can I use gluten-free pretzels?

Yes, gluten-free pretzels work well in this recipe, so it’s a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.

5. Can I bake these in an air fryer?

Yes, you can air fry these chicken fingers. Set the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook for 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and cooked through.

6. Can I freeze these chicken fingers?

Yes, you can freeze the coated chicken fingers before baking. When ready to cook, bake them from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

7. Can I use regular mustard instead of honey mustard?

Regular mustard will work, but it will alter the flavor, making it less sweet. You may want to add a touch of honey or sugar to balance the tanginess.

8. Can I use a different coating besides pretzel crumbs?

Yes, you can use breadcrumbs, panko, or even crushed crackers as an alternative to pretzel crumbs.

9. How can I make these chicken fingers less spicy?

To reduce the heat, use less hot sauce or opt for a milder sauce like BBQ or sweet chili sauce.

10. How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked and safe to eat.

Conclusion

These Baked Hot Honey Mustard Pretzel Chicken Fingers are the perfect balance of crunchy, sweet, and spicy, making them an irresistible snack or meal. With just a few simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can create a dish that’s both flavorful and healthier than traditional fried options. Perfect for busy weeknights, game days, or any occasion that calls for finger food, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite!

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