Air Fryer Honey BBQ Chicken Tenders

Air fryer honey BBQ chicken tenders are the perfect combination of crispy, juicy, and flavorful. This recipe delivers a crunchy exterior with a sweet and smoky glaze, all without the need for deep frying. Whether you’re making a quick weeknight dinner or need a crowd-pleasing appetizer, these tenders come together in just minutes.

SAVE THIS!SAVE THIS!

The air fryer allows the chicken to cook evenly while creating a crispy crust without excess oil. The honey adds a natural sweetness that balances the smoky BBQ sauce, making these tenders incredibly satisfying. With minimal ingredients and easy steps, this recipe is great for beginners and seasoned cooks alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy – Ready in under 15 minutes.
• Healthier than deep-frying – Uses just a small amount of oil.
• Perfectly crispy – The air fryer ensures an even golden-brown crust.
• Kid-friendly – Sweet, smoky flavors that everyone will love.
• Versatile – Serve as a main dish, in a wrap, or with dipping sauces.

Essential Tools and Equipment

To make these crispy air fryer honey BBQ chicken tenders, you’ll need:

• Air fryer – Cooks the tenders evenly with a crispy finish.
• Mixing bowls – For coating the chicken in the honey BBQ sauce.
• Tongs – Helps flip the tenders for even cooking.
• Basting brush (optional) – For extra sauce after cooking.

Preparation Tips

• Preheat the air fryer for even cooking.
• Pat the chicken dry before coating to help the sauce stick better.
• Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to ensure crispiness.
• Flip the tenders halfway through to cook both sides evenly.

Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken tenders
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup BBQ sauce (choose your favorite)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper (to taste)

Optional Additions

• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika for extra depth of flavor
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper for a spicy kick
• 1 tbsp soy sauce for added umami

Step-by-Step Directions

Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer

Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and allow it to preheat for about 3-5 minutes. Preheating ensures even cooking and helps the tenders crisp up properly.

Step 2: Prepare the Honey BBQ Sauce

In a mixing bowl, combine:

• Honey – Adds natural sweetness
• BBQ sauce – Provides a smoky, tangy flavor
• Olive oil – Helps crisp up the chicken in the air fryer
• Garlic powder – Enhances overall flavor
• Salt and pepper – Adjust to taste

Whisk everything together until smooth.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

• Pat the chicken tenders dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
• Add them to the bowl with the honey BBQ sauce mixture.
• Toss well to ensure each piece is evenly coated.

Step 4: Air Fry the Chicken

• Lightly grease the air fryer basket with cooking spray or brush with oil.
• Place the coated chicken tenders in a single layer in the basket. Do not overcrowd.
• Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy

• Remove the tenders from the air fryer and let them rest for 2 minutes.
• Optionally, brush with extra BBQ sauce for more flavor.
• Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.

These air fryer honey BBQ chicken tenders are crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and packed with sweet and smoky flavors. Enjoy them as a snack, main dish, or even in a sandwich.

Once your air fryer honey BBQ chicken tenders are cooked to crispy perfection, it’s time to think about how to serve them. Whether you’re enjoying them as a main dish or a snack, pairing them with the right sides and sauces can take the meal to the next level. Below are some of the best ways to serve these delicious tenders, along with common mistakes to avoid and the best side dishes to complement them.

How to Serve Air Fryer Honey BBQ Chicken Tenders

These crispy, flavorful tenders can be served in multiple ways, depending on the occasion and your personal preference. Here are a few ideas:

• With dipping sauces – A variety of dips can enhance the flavor, such as ranch dressing, honey mustard, or extra BBQ sauce.
• Over a salad – Slice the tenders and toss them into a fresh green salad with ranch or balsamic dressing.
• In a wrap – Add them to a tortilla with lettuce, tomatoes, and a drizzle of sauce for a quick meal.
• As a sandwich – Serve on a toasted bun with coleslaw, pickles, and an extra drizzle of BBQ sauce.
• With rice or mashed potatoes – For a heartier meal, pair them with a side of seasoned rice or creamy mashed potatoes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

While this recipe is simple, a few common mistakes can impact the texture and flavor of your chicken tenders. Here’s how to avoid them:

1. Overcrowding the Air Fryer Basket

Placing too many tenders in the air fryer at once prevents them from crisping up properly. The hot air needs to circulate around each piece for even cooking. Cook in batches if necessary.

2. Skipping the Flip

Flipping the tenders halfway through cooking ensures that both sides get evenly crispy. If you forget this step, one side may be soggy.

3. Not Preheating the Air Fryer

Preheating the air fryer helps the chicken start cooking immediately, leading to a crispier exterior. Skipping this step may result in a longer cook time and uneven texture.

4. Using Too Much Sauce Before Cooking

While it’s important to coat the chicken in the honey BBQ sauce, applying too much can lead to excess moisture, preventing the tenders from crisping properly. If you want extra sauce, brush it on after cooking.

5. Not Patting the Chicken Dry

Excess moisture on the chicken tenders before coating them in the sauce can prevent the seasoning from sticking properly. Use a paper towel to pat them dry before seasoning.

Best Side Dishes for Air Fryer Honey BBQ Chicken Tenders

Pairing your chicken tenders with the right sides can turn them into a complete meal. Here are some of the best side dishes to serve alongside them:

1. Classic French Fries

A crispy side of fries is the perfect match for chicken tenders. You can make air-fried fries or bake them for a healthier option.

2. Coleslaw

The creamy, tangy flavor of coleslaw balances the sweetness of the honey BBQ sauce. A simple mix of shredded cabbage, carrots, and a light dressing works well.

3. Corn on the Cob

Grilled or boiled corn on the cob adds a fresh and slightly sweet contrast to the smoky flavors of the tenders. Brush with butter and sprinkle with seasoning for extra flavor.

4. Mac and Cheese

Creamy mac and cheese pairs beautifully with crispy chicken tenders, creating a comforting and indulgent meal.

5. Baked Sweet Potato Fries

For a healthier alternative to classic fries, baked sweet potato fries add a natural sweetness that complements the honey BBQ glaze.

6. Garlic Bread

A warm slice of garlic bread makes a great side, especially if serving the tenders with a dipping sauce.

7. Steamed Vegetables

A mix of broccoli, carrots, and green beans adds a nutritious element to the meal while balancing the rich flavors of the chicken tenders.

8. Ranch or Caesar Salad

A fresh salad with crisp lettuce, croutons, and a creamy dressing makes for a light yet satisfying pairing with the crispy chicken.

With these serving ideas and side dishes, you can create a meal that’s both satisfying and well-balanced. By avoiding common mistakes, your air fryer honey BBQ chicken tenders will turn out perfectly crispy and flavorful every time.

Making air fryer honey BBQ chicken tenders is simple, but a few extra tips can help you achieve the best possible results. Below, you’ll find helpful cooking tips, storage and reheating instructions, answers to common questions, and a final summary of why this recipe is worth trying.

Expert Tips for Perfect Chicken Tenders

1. Use Fresh Chicken for Best Texture

While frozen chicken tenders can be used, fresh tenders will result in a juicier and more flavorful bite. If using frozen chicken, let it thaw completely and pat it dry before coating.

2. Choose the Right BBQ Sauce

A high-quality BBQ sauce will make a big difference in flavor. Honey BBQ sauce enhances the sweetness, while a smoky or spicy BBQ sauce can add extra depth. Experiment with different varieties to suit your taste.

3. Don’t Skip the Oil

Although the air fryer uses less oil than deep frying, a small amount helps the chicken crisp up. Mixing olive oil into the sauce or lightly spraying the air fryer basket ensures the tenders don’t stick and develop a golden-brown crust.

4. Adjust Cooking Time for Different Air Fryers

Air fryer models vary, and some may cook faster than others. Start checking the tenders at the 10-minute mark. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) for fully cooked chicken.

5. Double-Coat for Extra Crispiness

For an extra crunchy coating, try dipping the chicken in a mixture of panko breadcrumbs after tossing it in the sauce. This will create a crispy exterior while keeping the inside juicy.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

If you have leftovers, storing and reheating them properly will help maintain their crispiness and flavor.

How to Store Leftover Chicken Tenders

• Refrigerate: Place leftovers in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: To freeze, let the tenders cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep for up to 2 months.

How to Reheat Chicken Tenders

• Air Fryer: The best way to reheat is in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes until crispy and warmed through.
• Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 5-7 minutes on a wire rack for even crispiness.
• Microwave: While quick, microwaving may result in a softer texture. Heat in 30-second intervals until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I Use Chicken Breast Instead of Chicken Tenders?

Yes. Slice boneless, skinless chicken breasts into strips to create your own chicken tenders. Adjust cooking time as thicker pieces may need an extra 2-3 minutes in the air fryer.

2. Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?

Yes. Use a gluten-free BBQ sauce and double-check that all seasonings and ingredients are gluten-free. If adding breadcrumbs, choose gluten-free panko.

3. What If I Don’t Have an Air Fryer?

You can bake the tenders in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway through. They won’t be as crispy as air-fried tenders but will still have great flavor.

4. Can I Marinate the Chicken for More Flavor?

Yes. Let the chicken sit in the sauce mixture for 30 minutes to 1 hour in the refrigerator before cooking. This enhances the flavor and helps tenderize the meat.

5. What’s the Best Way to Keep Tenders Crispy?

Serve them immediately after cooking for the crispiest texture. If making a large batch, keep them warm in a low-temperature oven (200°F/93°C) until ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

Air fryer honey BBQ chicken tenders are a simple yet delicious meal that combines crispy, golden-brown chicken with a sweet and smoky glaze. They’re perfect for a quick dinner, game-day snack, or meal prep option. By following the right cooking techniques, avoiding common mistakes, and pairing them with tasty sides, you can create a meal that everyone will enjoy. With easy storage and reheating options, this recipe is also convenient for busy days.

Whether served with classic fries, a fresh salad, or in a wrap, these tenders are guaranteed to be a favorite.