Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders Recipe: 4 Steps to Perfect Tenders!

Hey there, fellow home cooks! If you’re anything like me, you know how hectic life can get. Between juggling work, family, and everything in between, finding time to whip up a delicious meal can feel impossible. That’s where my Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders come to the rescue! These tenders are not only crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, but they’re also coated in a sweet and savory sauce that will have your loved ones begging for seconds. Trust me, this recipe is a quick solution for busy days and a surefire way to impress your family!

Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders

Let’s be honest—who doesn’t love a meal that’s quick, easy, and downright delicious? These Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders check all the boxes! They cook up in just 22 minutes, making them perfect for those busy weeknights. Plus, the combination of honey, garlic, and butter creates a flavor explosion that will have everyone asking for your secret. You’ll feel like a culinary rockstar without spending hours in the kitchen!

Ingredients for Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making these Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders a hit! Here’s what you’ll need:

• Chicken tenders: The star of the show! They’re juicy and cook quickly, making them perfect for busy nights.
• All-purpose flour: This helps create a crispy coating. You can substitute with gluten-free flour if needed.
• Salt: A must for enhancing flavor. Don’t skip it!
• Black pepper: Adds a subtle kick. Freshly ground is best for maximum flavor.
• Paprika: This gives a lovely color and a hint of smokiness. Feel free to use smoked paprika for an extra depth.
• Egg: Acts as a binder, helping the coating stick to the chicken.
• Panko breadcrumbs: These create that irresistible crunch. Regular breadcrumbs work too, but panko is the way to go for extra texture.
• Honey: The sweet element that balances the savory garlic. You can use maple syrup for a different twist.
• Unsalted butter: Adds richness to the sauce. You can substitute with olive oil for a lighter option.
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic brings a robust flavor. Garlic powder can be used in a pinch, but fresh is best!
• Soy sauce: Adds umami and depth to the sauce. Use low-sodium soy sauce if you’re watching your salt intake.
• Dijon mustard: This gives a tangy kick to the sauce. You can skip it if you prefer a sweeter sauce.
• Red pepper flakes: Optional, but they add a nice heat. Adjust according to your spice preference.
• Cooking spray: Essential for preventing sticking and ensuring a golden finish.

For exact quantities, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing!

How to Make Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—making these Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal in no time.

Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer

First things first, preheating your air fryer is crucial. It ensures that the chicken tenders cook evenly and get that perfect crispy texture. Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and let it warm up while you prepare the rest. This little step makes a big difference!

Step 2: Prepare the Coating Mixture

In a shallow dish, mix together the all-purpose flour, salt, black pepper, and paprika. This flavorful blend will create a delicious base for our chicken. Make sure everything is well combined, so each tender gets an even coating. It’s all about that flavor, right?

Step 3: Dredge the Chicken Tenders

Now, let’s dredge those chicken tenders! Start by taking a tender and coating it in the flour mixture. Make sure it’s fully covered. Next, dip it into the whisked egg, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, roll it in the panko breadcrumbs for that irresistible crunch. Repeat this for all the tenders. Trust me, this coating is what makes them so delicious!

Step 4: Air Fry the Chicken Tenders

Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Place the coated chicken tenders in a single layer, giving them some space to breathe. This helps them cook evenly. Air fry for about 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through. Keep an eye on them; we want them golden brown and cooked through!

Step 5: Make the Honey Butter Garlic Sauce

While the chicken is cooking, let’s whip up that heavenly sauce! In a saucepan over low heat, combine the honey, melted butter, minced garlic, soy sauce, and Dijon mustard. Stir it all together until it’s warm and well combined. This sauce is the magic that ties everything together!

Step 6: Coat the Chicken Tenders in Sauce

Once your chicken tenders are done, it’s time to coat them in that delicious sauce. Toss the cooked tenders in the honey butter garlic sauce until they’re fully coated. Make sure every bite is bursting with flavor. Oh boy, you’re in for a treat!

Tips for Success

• For extra crunch, consider double coating the chicken tenders. Dredge them in the flour, dip in egg, and coat with panko twice!
• Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. Give each tender space to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
• Adjust the cooking time based on your air fryer model. Keep an eye on them for that perfect golden brown.
• Feel free to experiment with different spices in the coating for a unique twist!

Equipment Needed

• Air fryer: The star of the show! If you don’t have one, an oven can work, but the texture won’t be the same.
• Shallow dishes: For mixing the coating. Any plate or bowl will do!
• Whisk: Essential for beating the egg. A fork works in a pinch!
• Measuring cups: Handy for precise ingredient amounts, but eyeballing works too!

Variations

• Spicy Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the honey butter garlic sauce for an extra kick!
• Herb-Infused Tenders: Mix in dried herbs like oregano or thyme into the flour mixture for a fragrant twist.
• Parmesan Crusted Tenders: Add grated Parmesan cheese to the panko breadcrumbs for a cheesy, savory flavor.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with almond flour and use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.
• Honey Mustard Variation: Swap out the honey in the sauce for honey mustard for a tangy flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair these Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders with a fresh garden salad for a light meal.
• Serve them alongside fluffy rice or quinoa to soak up that delicious sauce.
• For a fun twist, offer a variety of dipping sauces like ranch or honey mustard.
• Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions for a pop of color.

FAQs about Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders

Can I use frozen chicken tenders for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them first. Frozen tenders may need a few extra minutes in the air fryer, so keep an eye on them for that perfect golden brown.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat them in the air fryer for a few minutes to regain that crispy texture!

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the honey butter garlic sauce in advance. Just store it in the fridge and reheat it gently before tossing it with the chicken tenders.

What can I serve with these chicken tenders?

These tenders pair wonderfully with a fresh salad, fluffy rice, or even crispy fries. You can also serve them with a variety of dipping sauces for extra flavor!

Are these chicken tenders gluten-free?

To make gluten-free Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour and use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs. Enjoy without worry!

Final Thoughts

Making Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders is more than just cooking; it’s about creating moments of joy around the dinner table. The crispy texture and sweet-savory sauce will have your family raving about dinner long after the plates are cleared. Plus, the ease of preparation means you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying each other’s company. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special occasion, these tenders are sure to impress. So, roll up your sleeves and dive into this delightful recipe—you won’t regret it!

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