Pumpkin Seed Crusted Chicken Tenders with Maple Sriracha Dipping Sauce: An Incredible 7-Step Dinner Option

Pumpkin Seed Crusted Chicken Tenders with Maple Sriracha Dipping Sauce is a dish that will delight your taste buds and impress your dinner guests. This recipe offers an amazing twist on the classic chicken tenders we all know and love. With a crunchy pumpkin seed coating and a spicy maple dipping sauce, these tenders are flavor-packed and perfect for any occasion.
Imagine biting into a tender piece of chicken that is perfectly coated with a crispy and savory crust of pumpkin seeds. The dynamic texture paired with the sweet and spicy maple sriracha sauce creates a culinary experience that draws people in for just one more bite. This dish not only tastes fantastic but is also relatively straightforward to prepare. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together, preparing a family dinner, or simply craving something a little different, these chicken tenders promise to be a hit.
Let’s delve deeper into the reasons why you’ll love this recipe, the preparation steps involved, and everything else you need to make this amazing dinner option a reality.

Preparation and Cooking Time

To whip up these delicious chicken tenders, here’s the estimated time you will need:
– Preparation Time: 15 minutes
– Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
– Total Time: 35-40 minutes
This timeframe ensures you can enjoy a delightful dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken tenders
– 1 cup pumpkin seeds (unsalted)
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
– ½ teaspoon salt
– ¼ teaspoon black pepper
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– ½ cup maple syrup
– 1 tablespoon sriracha
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Prepare Pumpkin Seed Coating: In a food processor, combine the pumpkin seeds, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Pulse until the mixture becomes coarse crumbs.
3. Prepare Chicken Mixture: In a medium bowl, whisk together the egg and Dijon mustard until well combined.
4. Coat the Chicken: Dip each chicken tender into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off. Then coat the chicken tenders in the pumpkin seed crumb mixture, pressing gently for an even coating.
5. Bake the Chicken Tenders: Place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Make the Maple Sriracha Dipping Sauce: While the chicken is baking, whisk together the maple syrup, sriracha, and apple cider vinegar in a small bowl. Adjust the spice level by adding more or less sriracha as desired.
7. Serve: Once cooked, let the chicken tenders cool for a few minutes before serving with the maple sriracha dipping sauce.

How to Serve

To elevate the presentation and enjoyment of your Pumpkin Seed Crusted Chicken Tenders, consider the following tips:
1. Plate Presentation: Arrange the chicken tenders neatly on a serving platter. Garnish with extra pumpkin seeds or fresh herbs like parsley for a pop of color.
2. Dipping Sauce Bowls: Serve the maple sriracha dipping sauce in small bowls or ramekins. This not only looks appealing but offers easy access as people enjoy the tenders.
3. Side Dishes: Pair these tenders with fresh vegetable sticks, a side salad, or roasted vegetables to create a well-rounded meal.
4. Garnish: Adding a sprinkle of sesame seeds or microgreens on top of the chicken can provide an added layer of sophistication.
5. Beverage Pairing: A crisp white wine or a light beer complements the flavors of this dish nicely, enhancing the dining experience.
By following these serving tips, you ensure that your meal is not only delicious but also visually stunning, making it perfect for any occasion. Enjoy your Pumpkin Seed Crusted Chicken Tenders with Maple Sriracha Dipping Sauce, and prepare for the rave reviews!

Recipe Variation

Try these fun variations to put your own twist on this fantastic dish:
1. Herb-Infused Coating: Add chopped fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano to the pumpkin seed coating for a fragrant flavor boost.
2. Coconut Crust: For a tropical twist, substitute half of the pumpkin seeds with unsweetened shredded coconut, which will add sweetness and texture.
3. Chili Lime Sauce: Create a tangy chili lime dipping sauce by replacing the maple syrup with fresh lime juice and adding crushed red pepper flakes for a zesty kick.

Freezing and Storage

– Storage: Cooked chicken tenders can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Ensure they are completely cooled before sealing to maintain crispiness.
– Freezing: You can freeze uncooked, coated chicken tenders. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to a freezer bag or container. They can be kept for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, allowing a few extra minutes in the oven.

Special Equipment

Having the right kitchen tools will make this recipe even easier:
– Food Processor: Essential for making the pumpkin seed coating mixture quickly.
– Baking Sheet: A standard rimmed baking pan helps prevent any spills while cooking.
– Parchment Paper: Line the baking sheet with parchment for easier cleanup and to prevent sticking.
– Mixing Bowls: Use separate bowls for the egg mixture and the pumpkin seed coating.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?
Absolutely! Just cut the chicken breasts into even strips to keep the cooking time consistent.
→ Can I bake these chicken tenders in an air fryer?
Yes, air frying is a great option! Cook at 400°F (200°C) for about 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
→ What if I don’t have pumpkin seeds?
You can substitute sunflower seeds, crushed nuts, or even cornflakes for a different texture and flavor.
→ Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?
Definitely! Use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs or oats to replace regular panko in this recipe.
→ How spicy is the dipping sauce?
The spice level can be adjusted based on your preference. Start with the recommended sriracha amount and add more if desired for extra heat.

Conclusion

Pumpkin Seed Crusted Chicken Tenders with Maple Sriracha Dipping Sauce is a tasty, healthy, and versatile dish that shines in any culinary setting. Its unique flavor profile and crispy texture guarantee a delightful dining experience. Perfect for families, guests, or a cozy night at home, this recipe is bound to impress. Don’t hesitate to share it with others – they’ll thank you for introducing them to this delectable treat!

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