Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup (60g) all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup (100g) panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup (30g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup (60ml) mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons (30ml) Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons (30ml) honey
- 1 tablespoon (15ml) apple cider vinegar
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cut chicken breasts into 1-inch pieces. Shape the chicken pieces into star shapes by hand or using cookie cutters.
- Place flour in one shallow dish, beaten eggs in the second, and combine panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in the third dish.
- Dredge each chicken piece in flour, shaking off excess. Then, dip in the beaten eggs, letting excess drip off. Finally, coat thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
- Place the breaded chicken stars on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
- Drizzle the chicken stars with olive oil. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the breading is golden brown and crispy. Check internal temperature with a meat thermometer; it should reach 165°F (74°C).
- While the chicken is baking, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, honey, apple cider vinegar, and salt in a small bowl until smooth.
- Serve the baked chicken stars immediately with the honey-mustard dipping sauce.