There’s something magical about fall the crisp air, golden leaves, and the smell of warm spices and roasting dinners filling the house. It’s the season when the kitchen becomes a place of comfort and creativity. That’s exactly why these Mummy Chicken Tenders are such a hit in our house every October.
They’re spooky enough to delight kids and festive enough for Halloween parties, but still simple enough to throw together on a busy weeknight. Picture juicy, seasoned chicken strips wrapped in “bandages” of flaky pastry, baked to perfection, and served with a side of ketchup “blood” a ghoulish twist that makes dinner fun and memorable. Whether you’re planning a Halloween dinner, lunchbox surprise, or just want a laugh at the dinner table, these mummies are your go to.
Mummy Chicken Tenders
Equipment
- baking sheet
- parchment paper
- Knife or pizza cutter to cut pastry strips
- Pastry brush for egg wash
- mixing bowl for seasoning chicken
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken tenders or chicken breast strips
- 1 gluten-free puff pastry sheet (or crescent roll dough)
- 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Garlic powder and paprika (optional, for seasoning)
- Mini black olives or black sesame seeds (for eyes)
- Ketchup or spicy mayo (for dipping)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Slice chicken breasts into even tenders if needed. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Unroll puff pastry and cut into thin strips using a knife or pizza cutter. Wrap each chicken tender loosely, leaving gaps and a space near the top for eyes.
- Add two olive slices, sesame seeds, or edible eyes to the exposed section for the mummy face.
- Brush each wrapped tender with egg wash. Bake for 18–22 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and pastry is golden brown.
- Serve warm with ketchup, spicy mayo, or dipping sauce of choice. Optional: add a toothpick swirl of red food coloring to the plate for spooky effect.
Notes
Nutrition
Ingredients for Mummy Chicken Tenders
You only need a handful of simple ingredients to create this festive dish. These mummy tenders can be made ahead, frozen, and even adapted to fit dietary needs like gluten-free or dairy-free.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 lb chicken tenders or chicken breast strips
- 1 refrigerated gluten-free puff pastry sheet (or crescent roll dough)
- 1 large egg (beaten, for egg wash)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Garlic powder and paprika (optional, for seasoning)
- Mini black olives or black sesame seeds (for eyes)
- Ketchup or spicy mayo (for dipping)
Optional spices: Try adding a sprinkle of smoked paprika for a deeper autumn flavor. For a gluten-free puff pastry recommendation, check our guide in this gluten-free mozzarella sticks recipe.
Step by Step Instructions
This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, including prep and bake time. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown.
1. Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. If you’re using chicken breasts, slice them into even-sized tenders. Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
2. Wrap the Chicken
Unroll your gluten-free puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to slice into long, thin strips these will become your mummy bandages. Wrap each tender in the strips, leaving small gaps and a space near the top for the “eyes.”
3. Add Eyes
Use small bits of black olives, sesame seeds, or edible googly eyes pressed gently into the exposed top section of the chicken. This gives your mummy some personality. Don’t skip this it’s what makes the dish shine!
4. Bake
Brush the wrapped tenders lightly with egg wash for a golden finish. Bake for 18–22 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the pastry is crisp. Serve warm with a dipping sauce of your choice ketchup, BBQ sauce, or this homemade spicy dip for a Halloween touch.
Tips for Perfect Mummy Chicken Tenders
- Use room-temperature dough: Cold gluten-free puff pastry cracks easily. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
- Don’t overwrap: Leave small gaps to ensure the pastry cooks evenly and doesn’t get doughy.
- Make ahead: Assemble them in the morning and refrigerate until ready to bake.
- Serve with a themed side: Try these easy chicken and veggie lunch boxes for a balanced spooky meal.
Variations to Try
Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters or managing food sensitivities, there’s room to play with this fun dinner idea.
Gluten-Free & Dairy-Free
Using a gluten-free puff pastry (like Schär or Jus-Rol) makes this recipe entirely gluten-free. You can also find dairy-free options if needed. Pair it with chicken nuggets or apple cinnamon overnight oats for a complete allergen-friendly dinner.
Add a Streusel Side (Sweet Treat)
Looking to finish off the meal with a cozy dessert? Try our gluten-free apple crisp it’s the ultimate fall pairing.
Storage & Reheating
Storage Tips:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- To freeze, place uncooked wrapped tenders on a tray, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Bake from frozen with an extra 5 minutes added to the cook time.
Reheating: Pop into a 350°F oven for 10 minutes until warmed through and crisp again. Avoid microwaving, as it makes the pastry soggy.
FAQs About Mummy Chicken Tenders
1. Can I use crescent roll dough instead of puff pastry?
Yes, gluten-free crescent dough works just as well and is easier to stretch and wrap.
2. Can I make these ahead for a party?
Absolutely. Assemble them up to a day in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.
3. What dipping sauces go best with Mummy Chicken Tenders?
Try ketchup, spicy aioli, honey mustard, or even our creamy cottage cheese alfredo as a fun, protein-rich dip.
4. Are these kid-friendly for school lunches?
Definitely! They hold up well cold and are a Halloween lunchbox favorite.
Conclusion
These Mummy Chicken Tenders are the perfect mix of playful and practical. They’re fast, festive, and packed with protein exactly what busy families need during the spooky season. Whether you’re making them for a party or a weeknight dinner, they’ll disappear faster than you can say “boo!”
Looking for more weeknight fall recipes? You’ll love our baked parmesan chicken tenders or this hearty green chili chicken rice dish.