Crispy air fryer honey butter garlic chicken tenders on a plate

Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders

ByCasey Monroe

Why Make This Recipe

Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders are a delicious and healthy twist on a classic favorite. Cooking with an air fryer means you get all the crispy texture without the extra oil. This recipe is not only easy to make but also packed with flavor from the sweet honey and garlic. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun party snack, these chicken tenders will surely please everyone!

How to Make Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb chicken tenders
  • ¼ cup honey
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
  • Cooking spray

Directions:

  1. In a bowl, mix together honey, melted butter, minced garlic, paprika, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
  2. Add chicken tenders to the bowl and coat them evenly with the honey garlic mixture.
  3. In a separate plate, spread the breadcrumbs.
  4. Dredge each chicken tender in the breadcrumbs and ensure they are fully coated.
  5. Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) and spray the basket with cooking spray.
  6. Place the breaded chicken tenders in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they do not overlap.
  7. Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until chicken is cooked through and golden brown.
  8. Remove from the air fryer and let rest for a few minutes before serving.

How to Serve Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders

These chicken tenders are best served warm, right out of the air fryer. You can enjoy them on their own or with dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce. They also make a great addition to a salad or sandwich!

How to Store Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders

If you have leftover chicken tenders, let them cool completely and then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can stay fresh for about 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.

Tips to Make Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders

  • Make sure to coat the chicken tenders evenly for the best flavor.
  • If you like extra crunch, use panko breadcrumbs, as they create a crispier texture.
  • Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking.

Variation

You can add different spices like cayenne pepper for a kick or try mixing in some herbs like parsley or thyme for added flavor. For a healthier version, skip the breadcrumbs and marinate the chicken tenders in the honey garlic mixture for a lighter dish.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken tenders?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts. Just make sure to cut them into strips that are similar in size to chicken tenders for even cooking.

2. What dipping sauces go well with these chicken tenders?
These chicken tenders pair well with a variety of sauces like ranch dressing, honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or even hot sauce if you like some spice.

3. Can I make these chicken tenders ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the honey garlic mixture and coat the chicken tenders ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator until you are ready to air fry them.