🍗 Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders
If you’re craving something **crispy, juicy, and absolutely addictive**, these Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders are your new go-to comfort food. They’re crunchy on the outside, tender on the inside, and coated in a golden glaze that perfectly balances **sweet honey, rich butter, and aromatic garlic**.
They’re made in the **air fryer**, so you get all the crunch without the heavy oil or messy frying. Quick, easy, and perfect for weeknights or game day snacks!
✅ Ingredients You’ll Need
Chicken and Coating
- **1 lb chicken tenders** (or chicken breast cut into strips)
- **½ cup all-purpose flour**
- **1 teaspoon salt**
- **½ teaspoon black pepper**
- **½ teaspoon paprika** (for color and a hint of smokiness)
- **1 large egg** (beaten)
- **½ cup panko breadcrumbs** (for extra crunch)
- **Cooking spray** (to help them crisp beautifully)
For the Honey Butter Garlic Sauce:
- **½ cup honey** (sweet and sticky base)
- **ÂĽ cup unsalted butter**, melted (adds richness)
- **3 cloves garlic**, minced (for that bold savory punch)
- **1 tablespoon soy sauce** (for umami depth)
- **1 teaspoon Dijon mustard** (adds tang and balance)
- **1 teaspoon red pepper flakes** (optional, for heat)
🔥 How to Make Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders
-
Step 1: Prep the Coating Stations
Set up three shallow bowls:
- Bowl 1: Whisk together **flour, salt, black pepper, and paprika**.
- Bowl 2: Beat the **egg** until smooth.
- Bowl 3: Place the **panko breadcrumbs**.
-
Step 2: Coat the Chicken
Pat the chicken tenders dry. Dredge each piece in the **flour mixture** (shaking off excess), dip into the **beaten egg**, and finally roll in the **panko breadcrumbs**, pressing gently to adhere. Place on a plate.
-
Step 3: Air Fry to Crispy Perfection
Preheat your air fryer to **375°F (190°C)**. Lightly spray the basket and arrange the tenders in a **single layer** (cook in batches if needed). Spray the tops with cooking spray.
Air fry for **10–12 minutes**, flipping halfway through. Cook until golden brown, crisp, and the internal temperature reaches **165°F (74°C)**.
-
Step 4: Make the Honey Butter Garlic Sauce
In a small saucepan over **low heat**, combine the honey, melted butter, minced garlic, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir continuously for **2–3 minutes** until smooth and aromatic. Do not let it boil.
-
Step 5: Toss and Coat
Transfer the cooked tenders to a large bowl. Pour the **warm sauce** over them and gently toss to coat every piece. Serve immediately.
🍽️ Serving Ideas
These chicken tenders are incredibly versatile:
- Over a bed of **steamed jasmine rice** with extra sauce drizzled on top.
- With a side of roasted vegetables or a crisp salad for balance.
- As an appetizer with **ranch, sriracha mayo, or garlic aioli** for dipping.
- In a **sandwich or wrap** with lettuce and pickles.
đź’ˇ Tips for Perfect Chicken Tenders
- **Don’t overcrowd the air fryer.** Cook in batches for even crisping.
- **Use panko breadcrumbs** instead of regular for a lighter, crunchier coating.
- **Add spice.** A pinch of cayenne or hot honey can take the flavor to the next level.
- **Double coat** the tenders if you want an extra-crispy crust.
- **Serve immediately** after tossing with the sauce to maintain that perfect crunch.
This recipe hits every flavor note—sweet, salty, buttery, garlicky, and just a hint of heat. The **air fryer** method delivers crunch without the mess, turning a simple meal into something restaurant-worthy!
Would you like me to find a recipe for a side dish, like a quick coleslaw or a crispy air-fried potato, to perfectly complement these chicken tenders?