Name: Sesame Crusted Baked Chicken Tenders with Mandarin Orange-Ginger Dressing Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Asian Fusion
Ingredients: 1 pound Shenandoah Valley Organic Farmer Focus Chicken Tenders; 1/2 cup coconut aminos or soy sauce* (use coconut aminos for gluten-free option); 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil; 2 tablespoons rice wine vinegar; 2 tablespoons minced or grated ginger root; 4 cloves garlic, minced or grated; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes; 1/2 teaspoon white pepper; 2 teaspoons sea salt (omit if using soy sauce); 1 1/2 cups raw sesame seeds; 2-3 fresh mandarins, peeled and segmented or 1 cup mandarin orange juice; 1 tablespoon grated ginger root; 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional); 2 tablespoons rice wine vinegar; 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 69 reviews

If you’re looking to wow your taste buds with a dish that balances crunch, zest, and a hint of sweetness, the Sesame Crusted Baked Chicken Tenders with Mandarin Orange-Ginger Dressing Recipe is going to become your new favorite. This recipe delivers golden, toasted sesame-coated chicken tenders that are perfectly baked to juicy perfection and paired with a vibrant mandarin orange-ginger dressing that jazzes up every bite. It’s a delightful combination of textures and flavors that feels both comforting and exciting, ideal for family dinners or impressing guests without any fuss.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A close-up top view of a baking tray filled with pieces of raw chicken coated evenly with a layer of golden sesame seeds. Each piece is long, thin, and covered fully with small, textured, light brown sesame seeds, arranged neatly in rows. The tray is placed on a white marbled surface with a small wooden area visible on the right side. Some loose sesame seeds are scattered around the tray edges, adding a rustic touch. The tray is silver with a white interior, and the light highlights the sesame seed texture clearly, showing a crunchy look. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Keeping the ingredients simple is what makes this recipe shine. Each component plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture, from the tender chicken to the crunchy sesame seeds and the punchy orange-ginger dressing.

1 pound Shenandoah Valley Organic Farmer Focus Chicken Tenders: The star protein, tender and juicy, perfect for quick baking.
1/2 cup coconut aminos or soy sauce*: Adds a rich umami depth; coconut aminos offer a soy-free alternative.
2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil: Infuses the marinade with a nutty aroma that’s irresistible.
2 tablespoons rice wine vinegar: Provides a mild tang that brightens the overall flavor.
2 tablespoons minced or grated ginger root: Offers a zesty, warming kick essential to the dressing’s character.
4 cloves garlic, minced or grated: Delivers savory pungency enhancing every mouthful.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: Boosts the garlic flavor for depth.
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes: Adds just a touch of heat to keep things lively.
1/2 teaspoon white pepper: Contributes a subtle earthy spice without overpowering.
2 teaspoons sea salt (*omit if using soy sauce): Balances flavors perfectly.
1 1/2 cups raw sesame seeds: The coating star, bringing crunch and toasty flavor that defines the dish.

How to Make Sesame Crusted Baked Chicken Tenders with Mandarin Orange-Ginger Dressing Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade and Chicken

Start by whisking together the coconut aminos or soy sauce, toasted sesame oil, rice wine vinegar, grated ginger, minced garlic, garlic powder, red pepper flakes, white pepper, and sea salt in a bowl. This vibrant marinade not only tenderizes but infuses the chicken tenders with bold flavors. Toss the chicken tenders in this mixture, ensuring each piece is generously coated. Letting them marinate for at least 20 minutes, or up to an hour, allows the flavors to really soak in.

Step 2: Coat the Chicken with Sesame Seeds

Pour the raw sesame seeds onto a large plate or shallow dish. Remove each marinated chicken tender from the bowl and gently press both sides into the sesame seeds, making sure to get a nice even crust. The seeds will stick perfectly thanks to the marinade, setting the stage for a crunchy, golden exterior once baked.

Step 3: Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the sesame-crusted chicken tenders on a lightly greased baking sheet in a single layer, giving them enough space so they crisp up beautifully. Bake for about 15 to 20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the sesame crust turns a gorgeous golden brown. You want the tenders to be juicy inside with a satisfying crunch outside.

Step 4: Prepare Mandarin Orange-Ginger Dressing

While the chicken bakes, whip up the mandarin orange-ginger dressing. Combine freshly squeezed mandarin orange juice, a touch of ginger, a splash of rice vinegar, and a drizzle of honey or another sweetener of your choice. Whisk until smooth and well blended. This dressing will be your tangy, sweet counterpoint to the savory crunch of the chicken, tying the dish together beautifully.

How to Serve Sesame Crusted Baked Chicken Tenders with Mandarin Orange-Ginger Dressing Recipe

The dish shows a white round plate filled with a fresh salad made of dark green spinach leaves, curly green lettuce, and some purple leafy greens as the base layer. On top are small orange segments scattered around, along with slices of light green avocado. Two golden brown sesame-crusted chicken strips with a crunchy texture sit across the middle, lightly drizzled with a creamy yellow dressing. The plate rests on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For a stunning presentation and extra flavor boost, sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro or green onions over the chicken tenders. Toasted sesame seeds can also be scattered on top to emphasize the nutty crust. A few thin mandarin orange slices on the side add a fresh, juicy pop and visually complement the dressing naturally.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with a light and crisp Asian-style slaw or steamed jasmine rice to soak up that luscious dressing. Steamed broccoli or snap peas tossed in a little sesame oil make an ideal vegetable side for added crunch and color, creating a beautifully balanced plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the chicken tenders on top of a bed of mixed greens drizzled with the mandarin orange-ginger dressing. You can also skewer the tenders and serve them as appetizers at a gathering. Another great idea is wrapping the tenders with fresh lettuce leaves for a low-carb, hand-held wrap that bursts with flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover sesame crusted chicken tenders store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the mandarin orange-ginger dressing separate to maintain the tenders’ crispy texture when reheating.

Freezing

If you’d like to keep them longer, these chicken tenders freeze nicely. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze initially, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months. Freeze the dressing separately or make a fresh batch when ready to serve.

Reheating

To reheat, pop the tenders in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving if possible as it can make the sesame crust soggy. Reheat the dressing gently at room temperature or stir before drizzling.

FAQs

Can I use regular chicken breasts instead of chicken tenders?

Yes! You can slice chicken breasts into strips to mimic tenders, but keep in mind the cooking time may vary slightly since the pieces might be thicker.

Is coconut aminos a good substitute for soy sauce?

Absolutely. Coconut aminos provide a similar savory and slightly sweet flavor while being soy-free and lower in sodium, making them a great alternative.

Can I make the mandarin orange-ginger dressing ahead of time?

Definitely. The dressing can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just give it a good shake or stir before serving.

How do I ensure the sesame crust sticks to the chicken?

Marinating the chicken in the sauce first creates a sticky surface that helps the sesame seeds adhere well. Pressing the seeds gently into the chicken further secures the crust.

What if I don’t have toasted sesame oil?

Toasted sesame oil is key for its nutty aroma, but if you don’t have it, you can use regular sesame oil or a light olive oil, though the flavor will be milder.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about the Sesame Crusted Baked Chicken Tenders with Mandarin Orange-Ginger Dressing Recipe, and it has quickly become a favorite to share because it delivers crunch, flavor, and brightness in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this dish brings a joyful balance of savory and sweet that’s simply irresistible. Give it a try—you might just find your new go-to chicken tender recipe!

Sesame Crusted Baked Chicken Tenders with Mandarin Orange-Ginger Dressing Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need