The satisfying crackle of crispy chicken tenders greets you as they emerge golden and fresh from the air fryer, a delightful symphony of texture that never fails to excite. Today, I’m sharing my recipe for Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders—a dish that marries a sweet-savory glaze with tender, juicy meat for an unforgettable dinner. What’s more, this recipe delivers on flavor without the fuss: prep time is minimal, and it’s perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings. Whether you choose tender strips or hearty breast pieces, you can easily adapt it to suit every taste, including gluten-free options. Ready to elevate your dinner routine and impress family and friends? Let’s dive in and make magic happen in the kitchen!
Why Are These Chicken Tenders Irresistible?
Crispy Perfection: The air fryer gives these chicken tenders a golden crunch without the excess oil, making them a healthier choice you can feel good about.
Sweet Meets Savory: A luscious honey butter garlic glaze envelops each tender, creating a symphony of flavors that keep everyone coming back for more.
Customizable Options: Whether you prefer chicken breasts or thighs, this recipe offers flexibility to suit your preferences. You can even try gluten-free flour for a lighter option!
Quick and Easy: With minimal prep and cooking time, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner parties. Looking for more quick ideas? Check out these Honey Garlic Chicken or Crack Chicken Tenders that guarantee satisfaction!
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Served as an appetizer or a main dish, these tenders are sure to impress family and friends alike at any gathering.
Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders Ingredients
For the Chicken
• Chicken Tenders – The key ingredient for tender, juicy bites, and you can substitute with chicken breasts or thighs for variety.
• Eggs – Acts as a binding agent to help the breadcrumbs stick to the chicken perfectly.
For the Breading
• Flour – Provides a crispy layer; opt for gluten-free flour if you need a gluten-free alternative.
• Paprika – Adds a mild spice and vibrant color to the tenders.
• Garlic Powder – Enhances the flavor; fresh garlic can also be used for a more robust taste.
• Salt/Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to your personal taste!
• Panko Breadcrumbs – Delivers an ultra-crispy coating, but regular breadcrumbs can work in a pinch.
For the Glaze
• Butter – Infuses richness into the glaze, elevating the overall flavor.
• Honey – The star ingredient providing a sweet touch; feel free to use maple syrup as a substitution.
• Fresh Garlic – For an intense garlic punch in the sauce; can be replaced with more garlic powder if fresh isn’t handy.
For Garnishing
• Fresh Parsley – A vibrant touch that adds freshness and a pop of color to your dish!
Get ready to create a dish that not only tantalizes taste buds but also offers a comforting experience with each bite of these Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders Recipe
Step 1: Prep Breading Station
Start by creating your breading station with three shallow dishes. In the first, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. In the second dish, beat the eggs well. Finally, fill the third dish with panko breadcrumbs. This setup is essential for coating your chicken tenders evenly, ensuring they become delightfully crispy when you fry them.
Step 2: Bread Chicken
Take each chicken tender and dredge it in the seasoned flour mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated. Next, dip the coated tender into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, press the tender into the panko breadcrumbs, covering it completely. This triple-dipping process will help create that irresistible crunch for your Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders.
Step 3: Cook Chicken
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes. Once hot, arrange the breaded chicken tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they aren’t overcrowded. Lightly spray the tenders with cooking oil for an extra crisp. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they achieve a deep golden color and have an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Step 4: Prepare Glaze
While the chicken is cooking, melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. When melted, stir in the honey and minced garlic, allowing the mixture to heat for 2-3 minutes until it’s fragrant and slightly thickened. This honey butter garlic glaze will add a sweet-savory kick that makes the chicken tenders irresistible.
Step 5: Coat Chicken
Once your chicken tenders are perfectly cooked and golden brown, remove them from the air fryer. In a large bowl, toss the hot chicken tenders with the honey butter garlic glaze until they are fully coated. This step is where the air fryer magic meets the sweet and savory glaze, creating the perfect flavor blend.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
To elevate your dish, transfer the glazed chicken tenders to a serving plate and finish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley for color and freshness. For an extra kick, consider adding lemon zest or a dash of chili flakes. Your Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders are now ready to impress your family and friends!
Make Ahead Options
These Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can bread the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, storing the coated tenders in the refrigerator to maintain their crispiness. For an even easier preparation, you can also prepare the honey butter garlic glaze and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply cook the breaded tenders in the air fryer as directed; they will still be just as delicious and crunchy. This way, on busy weeknights, you’ll have a scrumptious, homemade meal in no time, saving you precious hours without skimping on flavor!
What to Serve with Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders?
Take your dinner to the next level by pairing these crispy tenders with sides that balance flavor and texture.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The rich and buttery flavor of mashed potatoes beautifully complements the sweet-savory chicken, creating a comforting meal.
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Garlic Butter Green Beans: Tender-crisp green beans sautéed in garlic butter add a fresh and vibrant contrast, enhancing the dish’s overall aesthetic.
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Crisp Side Salad: A refreshing salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a zesty vinaigrette provides crunch and a light contrast to the tender chicken.
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring out natural sweetness and a smokiness that pairs perfectly with the honey butter glaze.
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Fluffy Rice: Serve tender chicken tenders on a bed of fluffy rice, allowing you to soak up that delicious honey garlic sauce in every bite.
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Crispy Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw delivers a delightful texture and tang, creating a satisfying balance with the sweetness of the glaze.
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Icy Lemonade: Refreshing homemade lemonade offers a zesty brightness, amplifying the flavor profile with a sweet and tangy combination.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: Delight your guests with warm chocolate chip cookies for dessert; their soft sweetness contrasts beautifully with the glazed chicken.
Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders Variations
Feel free to explore and make this recipe your own; the possibilities are as delicious as they are diverse!
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Dairy-Free: Use olive oil instead of butter and maple syrup instead of honey for a delightful vegan twist.
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Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper to the flour mixture for tenders with a fiery kick. It’s a great way to awaken your taste buds!
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Crispier Coating: Substitute panko with crushed cornflakes for an ultra-crispy texture. This twist brings a fun crunch to the dish!
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Herbed Flavor: Mix dried herbs like Italian seasoning or thyme into the breadcrumb blend for an aromatic touch. Elevate your tenders to a whole new flavor profile!
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Meat Variations: Swap the chicken for turkey tenders for a lighter option. They’ll still be juicy and delicious!
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Zesty Addition: Incorporate lemon or lime zest into the glaze for a bright, citrusy flavor boost that pairs perfectly with the sweet honey.
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Parmesan Crust: Mix grated Parmesan cheese into the panko for a cheesy richness that complements the tender chicken beautifully.
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Honey Mustard Sauce: Replace honey in the glaze with honey mustard for a tangy twist. It adds an incredible depth of flavor, perfect for dipping!
For even more delightful chicken ideas, don’t miss my Honey Garlic Chicken or Honey Mustard Chicken.
How to Store and Freeze Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders
Fridge: Store leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Place a paper towel inside to help absorb moisture and keep them crispy.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze uncoated chicken tenders before cooking. Wrap them tightly in airtight packaging for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To reheat, place tenders in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for about 5-8 minutes until heated through and crispy. Enjoy the same delicious taste as when they were fresh!
Tip: If reheating glazed chicken tenders, do so gently in the air fryer or oven to maintain that delightful glaze and avoid sogginess.
Expert Tips for Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders Recipe
Rest Before Cooking: Let the breaded chicken tenders sit for a few minutes after coating. This resting period helps the breading adhere better, avoiding the common mistake of it falling off during cooking.
Don’t Overcrowd the Air Fryer: Cook the chicken tenders in batches if necessary. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and soggy results, so give each tender enough space to crisp up beautifully.
Use the Right Oil Spray: Lightly spray the tenders with cooking oil before air frying to achieve an even crispiness. Avoid using too much oil, as it can lead to greasy tenders rather than the desired crisp.
Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to confirm the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This ensures your Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders are cooked through without overcooking.
Store Leftovers Correctly: If you have any leftovers, place a paper towel in the container to absorb excess moisture—this keeps the tenders crispy for longer!
Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best chicken tenders?
Absolutely! Look for chicken tenders that are fresh, without any dark spots or a strong odor. If you’re using chicken breasts or thighs, ensure they have a bright color and are free from excess moisture to guarantee tenderness and juiciness.
What’s the best way to store leftover chicken tenders?
After enjoying your delicious meal, place any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. I recommend putting a paper towel inside the container to absorb moisture, keeping your tenders crisp and tasty!
Can I freeze Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders?
Very! For freezing, uncoat your chicken tenders before cooking. Simply wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container, and they can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to cook, just thaw and cook them up in the air fryer for that fresh crunch!
What do I do if my breading falls off while cooking?
No worries! This can easily happen if the chicken isn’t rested after breading. To prevent it, let the breaded tenders sit for a few minutes before cooking. Also, ensure you’re not overcrowding the air fryer basket, which can cause uneven cooking and make it hard for the coating to stick properly.
Are these chicken tenders suitable for gluten-free diets?
Absolutely! For those with gluten sensitivities, simply substitute the regular flour and panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free flour and gluten-free panko. This way, everyone can enjoy the delightful flavors of your Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders without any worries!
Can my pets have leftover chicken tenders?
While it’s tempting to share, it’s best not to give your pets chicken with any seasoning or glaze. If your pets are craving a treat, serving them plain, cooked chicken (without any salt or spices) can be a tasty, safe option!
Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders Recipe You’ll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by creating your breading station with three shallow dishes. In the first, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. In the second dish, beat the eggs well. Finally, fill the third dish with panko breadcrumbs.
- Take each chicken tender and dredge it in the seasoned flour mixture, ensuring it's fully coated. Next, dip the coated tender into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, press the tender into the panko breadcrumbs, covering it completely.
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes. Once hot, arrange the breaded chicken tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they aren't overcrowded. Lightly spray the tenders with cooking oil. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- While the chicken is cooking, melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the honey and minced garlic, allowing the mixture to heat for 2-3 minutes until it's fragrant and slightly thickened.
- Once your chicken tenders are perfectly cooked and golden brown, remove them from the air fryer. Toss the hot chicken tenders with the honey butter garlic glaze until they are fully coated.
- Transfer the glazed chicken tenders to a serving plate and finish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley.
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