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

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Crispy and flavorful Sesame Crusted Baked Chicken Tenders served with a refreshing Mandarin Orange-Ginger Dressing. This recipe features tender chicken coated in a crunchy sesame seed crust, baked to perfection, and paired with a tangy and zesty dressing made from mandarin oranges and fresh ginger. A perfect dish for a healthy yet indulgent meal.

Ingredients

Chicken Tenders

  • 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

Mandarin Orange-Ginger Dressing

  • 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

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, combine the coconut aminos or soy sauce, toasted sesame oil, rice wine vinegar, minced ginger, minced garlic, garlic powder, red pepper flakes, white pepper, and sea salt (only if not using soy sauce). Mix well to ensure all flavors incorporate.
  2. Marinate the Chicken Tenders: Place the chicken tenders in the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to 1 hour to allow the flavors to infuse.
  3. Coat with Sesame Seeds: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pour sesame seeds into a shallow dish. Remove chicken tenders from marinade and press each piece into the sesame seeds to form an even crust on all sides.
  4. Bake the Chicken Tenders: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Place the sesame-coated chicken tenders on the sheet in a single layer. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sesame crust is golden and crispy.
  5. Prepare Mandarin Orange-Ginger Dressing: While chicken bakes, in a blender or food processor, combine mandarin segments or juice, grated ginger, honey or maple syrup, rice wine vinegar, and toasted sesame oil. Blend until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Serve: Remove chicken tenders from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve with the Mandarin Orange-Ginger Dressing drizzled on top or as a dipping sauce on the side.

Notes

  • For a gluten-free option, use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
  • Adjust red pepper flakes to your desired heat level or omit for a milder flavor.
  • Use a high-quality toasted sesame oil for the best aroma and taste.
  • The dressing can be prepared ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Ensure the chicken tenders are not overcrowded on the baking sheet for even cooking and crispiness.

Find it online: https://justsosavory.com/sesame-crusted-baked-chicken-tenders-with-mandarin-orange-ginger-dressing-recipe/