If you’re searching for a recipe that instantly perks up weeknight dinners, family get-togethers, or cozy game nights, Baked Breaded Chicken Strips with Honey Mustard Dip might be your new secret weapon. These golden, crunchy chicken strips are oven-baked for lighter indulgence, and each bite is dipped into a creamy, sweet-tangy honey mustard sauce that just begs for licking your fingers. The best part? This dish brings together that homey comfort food vibe with a touch of elegance, all while skipping the heavy frying. Prepare for rave reviews—this one’s about to become your go-to favorite!

Baked Breaded Chicken Strips with Honey Mustard Dip Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

You don’t need complicated ingredients for this recipe—just a handful of pantry staples and a few fresh picks that put the “wow” in every mouthful. Every component has a role, from flavor-packed marinades to crunchy coatings and that luxuriously rich honey mustard dip.

Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless and sliced into strips for juicy, tender bites every time.
Sea salt and pepper: Season simply, so the natural flavor of the chicken shines through.
Dijon mustard: Lends a tangy zip and depth to both the marinade and the dipping sauce.
Mayonnaise: Provides creamy richness, ensuring the chicken stays moist and the dip is decadently smooth.
Garlic cloves: Fresh garlic infuses the marinade with a subtle punch that keeps everyone coming back for another dip.
Bread crumbs (Italian-style and panko): The combo creates the ultimate crispy coating—seasoned for flavor, panko for irresistible crunch!
Honey: Adds natural sweetness and balance to the tangy Dijon in your homemade honey mustard sauce.
Poppy seeds (optional): Sprinkle these on the dip for a playful touch and an eye-catching finish.

How to Make Baked Breaded Chicken Strips with Honey Mustard Dip

Step 1: Preheat and Prep Your Pan

Start by firing up your oven to a toasty 450°F (230°C). Line a large, rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil—this is a game-changer for easy cleanup, so you can focus on enjoying your Baked Breaded Chicken Strips with Honey Mustard Dip instead of scrubbing pans later.

Step 2: Mix the Marinade

In a big bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard, mayonnaise, and those pressed garlic cloves. Let this mixture sit for a couple of minutes; the garlic will do its magical infusion trick, imbibing the marinade with that irresistible aroma and flavor.

Step 3: Ready the Breading Station

Pour your bread crumbs (mixing Italian-style and panko for mega crunch) into another bowl. Set the bowl beside your marinade—it’s about to become your assembly line!

Step 4: Slice and Prep the Chicken

Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels, trim excess fat, and cut them into thick, 1-inch strips. By patting the chicken dry, you’ll help the marinade stick better and keep the coating crispy during baking.

Step 5: Season the Chicken

Sprinkle both sides of the chicken strips with sea salt and pepper. This simple seasoning keeps the flavor balanced, letting the marinade and coating truly pop.

Step 6: Coat and Bread the Chicken

Dip each chicken strip into the marinade, making sure it’s totally slathered for maximum flavor and moisture. Next, roll the marinated strips in bread crumbs, patting gently to coat all sides. Arrange them on your prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart so they bake up golden and crunchy.

Step 7: Bake to Crispy Perfection

Slide your tray into the hot oven and bake for 15 to 17 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the outside is crisp and deeply golden. Avoid the urge to overcrowd the pan—more space means more crispy edges!

Step 8: Whip Up the Honey Mustard Dip

While the chicken bakes, stir together Dijon mustard, honey, and mayonnaise until the sauce is silky and perfectly balanced. For an extra flourish, sprinkle in poppy seeds. Pop it in the fridge until serving; chilled, this dip becomes ultra-refreshing with every bite of Baked Breaded Chicken Strips with Honey Mustard Dip.

How to Serve Baked Breaded Chicken Strips with Honey Mustard Dip

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives right before serving instantly brightens your platter, and a scattering of poppy seeds over your honey mustard dip adds a playful, speckled finish. For a little heat, add a pinch of smoked paprika or chili flakes, creating eye appeal and an extra flavor surprise every time you dip.

Side Dishes

Pair your Baked Breaded Chicken Strips with Honey Mustard Dip with a crisp green salad, roasted veggies, or homemade sweet potato fries for a wholesome touch. A pile of creamy coleslaw or a vibrant corn salad also rounds out the meal, making it feel complete and extra special.

Creative Ways to Present

Pile the chicken strips high on a big wooden board with the honey mustard dip in the center for a fun, shareable snack at gatherings. For lunchboxes, layer slices of chicken in wraps with a swipe of dip, or serve on skewers for easy, crowd-pleasing party bites. However you serve it, this dish always feels like a celebration!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover Baked Breaded Chicken Strips with Honey Mustard Dip (which is rare because they disappear fast!), place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay tasty for up to 3 days and still have plenty of that signature crunch.

Freezing

To freeze, let the cooked chicken strips cool completely, then spread them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer them to a freezer bag or container; they’ll keep beautifully for up to 2 months. Freeze the honey mustard dip separately in a small container.

Reheating

Reheat chicken strips in the oven or a toaster oven at 375°F (190°C) until they’re hot and crispy—this brings back their fresh-from-the-oven crunch. Microwave only if you’re in a hurry, as it can soften the coating. Give your honey mustard dip a good stir and let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.

FAQs

Can I use chicken tenders instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken tenders work perfectly for Baked Breaded Chicken Strips with Honey Mustard Dip, and you’ll save a step since they’re already the ideal size. Just keep an eye on the baking time as they may cook a bit faster.

What if I don’t have both types of bread crumbs?

No worries at all. You can use just Italian-style bread crumbs or only panko—either one will still give you a crunchy, flavorful coating. Mixing both just adds that next level of crunch!

Is the honey mustard dip spicy?

Not at all! This dip is sweet and tangy, with a mild kick from the Dijon. If you like extra heat, feel free to add a little cayenne or hot sauce to your dip for a custom twist on your Baked Breaded Chicken Strips with Honey Mustard Dip.

Can I prepare the chicken ahead and bake later?

Yes! You can marinate and bread the chicken strips, then cover and refrigerate them for several hours or even overnight. Simply bake as directed when you’re ready for fresh, piping hot strips.

What’s the best way to keep them crispy when serving for a party?

Place baked chicken strips on a wire rack over a baking sheet in a low oven (around 200°F/93°C) to keep them warm and crispy as guests arrive. Serve the Baked Breaded Chicken Strips with Honey Mustard Dip right alongside for effortless dipping and dunking!

Final Thoughts

Ready to win over every eater at your table? This recipe for Baked Breaded Chicken Strips with Honey Mustard Dip is easy, irresistible, and made for making memories. Pop them in the oven tonight and watch how quickly they vanish—don’t forget to save some dip for yourself!