Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders

 

air-fryer-honey-butter-garlic-chicken-tenders

Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders

Introduction

Chicken tenders are a classic comfort food, but when you add a glaze of honey, butter, and garlic, they transform into something truly irresistible. Cooking them in the air fryer makes them crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and healthier than deep-frying. This recipe for air fryer honey butter garlic chicken tenders is quick, flavorful, and perfect for weeknight dinners, parties, or even meal prep.

Why This Recipe Works

  • Air fryer magic: Crispy texture without excess oil.
  • Sweet & savory glaze: Honey and garlic balance perfectly with butter richness.
  • Quick cooking: Ready in under 30 minutes.
  • Kid-friendly: Mild flavors with optional spice for adults.
  • Versatile: Serve as main dish, appetizer, or snack.

Key Ingredients

  • Chicken tenders: Boneless strips for easy cooking.
  • Breadcrumb coating: Panko or regular breadcrumbs for crunch.
  • Seasonings: Garlic powder, paprika, salt, pepper.
  • Honey butter glaze: Honey, melted butter, minced garlic.
  • Optional spice: Cayenne or chili flakes for heat.

Step-by-Step Recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 lb chicken tenders
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 eggs, beaten
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp honey
  • 2 tbsp butter, melted
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • Optional: ½ tsp cayenne pepper

Instructions

  1. Prepare coating: Mix flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  2. Bread chicken: Dip tenders in flour, then eggs, then breadcrumbs.
  3. Air fry: Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Spray basket with oil. Cook tenders 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and cooked through.
  4. Make glaze: In saucepan, melt butter, add garlic, cook 1 minute. Stir in honey and cayenne.
  5. Coat tenders: Toss hot chicken tenders in honey butter garlic glaze.
  6. Serve: Garnish with parsley or sesame seeds.

Tips for Success

  • Spray tenders lightly with oil for extra crispiness.
  • Don’t overcrowd air fryer basket—cook in batches.
  • Use thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
  • Adjust honey for sweetness and garlic for boldness.
  • Serve immediately for best texture.

Flavor Variations

  • Spicy Honey Garlic Tenders: Add sriracha or chili flakes.
  • Asian-Inspired Tenders: Add soy sauce and sesame oil to glaze.
  • Cheesy Tenders: Mix Parmesan into breadcrumb coating.
  • Herb Butter Tenders: Add rosemary or thyme to glaze.

Serving Ideas

  • With fries or potato wedges for a classic combo.
  • Over rice or noodles with steamed veggies.
  • As sliders with coleslaw in mini buns.
  • On party platters with dipping sauces.
  • With ranch, BBQ, or spicy mayo for variety.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Skipping preheat—air fryer needs heat for crispiness.
  • Overcrowding basket—leads to soggy coating.
  • Using too much glaze—makes tenders sticky instead of glossy.
  • Undercooking chicken—always check internal temperature.

Nutritional Notes

  • Calories: ~250 per serving (depending on portion size).
  • Protein: High from chicken.
  • Carbs: From breadcrumbs and honey.
  • Customization: Use whole wheat breadcrumbs or sugar-free honey for lighter version.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of tenders?
Yes, slice into strips for similar results.

Can I make them ahead?
Yes, air fry and refrigerate. Reheat in air fryer for crispiness.

Can I bake instead of air fry?
Yes, bake at 425°F (220°C) for 15–18 minutes.

Can I freeze them?
Yes, freeze cooked tenders. Reheat directly in air fryer.

Advanced Tips

  • Double coat tenders for extra crunch.
  • Add cornstarch to flour mix for lighter crisp.
  • Use fresh garlic in glaze for stronger flavor.
  • Garnish with green onions for freshness.
  • Pair with sweet chili sauce for fusion twist.

Conclusion

Air fryer honey butter garlic chicken tenders are the perfect blend of crispy, juicy, sweet, and savory. With simple ingredients and quick cooking, you can enjoy restaurant-quality tenders at home. Whether served as a main dish, snack, or party appetizer, these tenders are guaranteed to impress and satisfy.

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