These air fryer honey butter garlic chicken tenders are crispy, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. They feature a golden, crunchy breadcrumb coating with a sweet and savory honey butter garlic glaze. Cooking them in the air fryer means you get the perfect crispy texture without excessive oil, making them a healthier alternative to deep-fried tenders.
Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner, a kid-friendly meal, or a delicious appetizer, this recipe is a great option. The balance of garlic, honey, and butter creates a rich flavor that pairs well with a variety of sides.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Essential Tools & Equipment
- Air fryer – Ensures even cooking and crispiness
- Mixing bowls – For preparing the glaze and coating
- Tongs – Makes flipping and handling chicken easier
- Basting brush – Helps apply the reserved honey butter sauce
- Measuring cups & spoons – Ensures accurate ingredient measurements
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb chicken tenders
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- Cooking spray
For the Honey Butter Garlic Sauce:
- ¼ cup honey
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Honey Butter Garlic Mixture
In a small mixing bowl, combine honey, melted butter, minced garlic, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir until well blended. Set aside half of the mixture to use later as a glaze.
Step 2: Coat the Chicken
Dip each chicken tender into the honey butter garlic mixture, ensuring an even coat. Then, roll it in breadcrumbs, pressing gently so the coating adheres well.
Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer
Set the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and allow it to preheat for 2-3 minutes. This step ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and develops a crispy exterior.
Step 4: Arrange the Chicken in the Air Fryer
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Place the coated chicken tenders in a single layer, ensuring they do not touch. Overcrowding the basket can result in uneven cooking.
Step 5: Cook the Chicken
Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through. The tenders should be golden brown, crispy, and have an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) when fully cooked.
Step 6: Add the Final Glaze
Once the tenders are cooked, drizzle the reserved honey butter garlic mixture over the top for added flavor. Serve immediately while hot.
These air fryer honey butter garlic chicken tenders are ready to enjoy, offering the perfect combination of crispiness and a sweet, garlicky glaze.
These crispy chicken tenders are versatile and can be served in a variety of ways. Whether you’re making a quick weeknight dinner or preparing an appetizer for a gathering, here are some of the best ways to serve them:
- With a Dipping Sauce – Pair the tenders with honey mustard, ranch dressing, garlic aioli, or extra honey butter sauce for added flavor.
- Over a Salad – Serve them on top of a fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette for a balanced meal.
- In a Sandwich or Wrap – Place the tenders in a toasted bun or wrap with lettuce, tomatoes, and a drizzle of extra sauce for a quick and delicious meal.
- With Rice or Quinoa – A side of fluffy rice or quinoa helps soak up the honey butter garlic sauce, making for a hearty dish.
- As a Party Appetizer – Serve them on a platter with toothpicks and a variety of dipping sauces for an easy-to-eat snack.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
1. Overcrowding the Air Fryer Basket
Placing too many chicken tenders in the air fryer at once can prevent even cooking and crispiness. Cook them in batches if necessary to ensure each piece gets enough airflow.
2. Not Preheating the Air Fryer
Preheating the air fryer for a few minutes before cooking helps create a crispier texture. Skipping this step may result in unevenly cooked chicken.
3. Using Too Much Sauce Before Cooking
While it’s important to coat the chicken in the honey butter garlic mixture, using too much sauce can make the breadcrumbs soggy and prevent the tenders from crisping up properly. Reserve half of the sauce to drizzle over the tenders after cooking.
4. Not Flipping the Chicken Tenders
Flipping the tenders halfway through cooking ensures they crisp up evenly on both sides. Without flipping, one side may remain undercooked or less crispy.
5. Removing the Chicken Too Early
To ensure the tenders are fully cooked, check that they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) using a meat thermometer. Removing them too early can result in undercooked chicken.
Best Side Dishes to Serve with Chicken Tenders
1. Garlic Parmesan Roasted Potatoes
Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with garlic, Parmesan cheese, and fresh herbs make a perfect complement to the sweet and savory flavors of the chicken tenders.
2. Creamy Coleslaw
A refreshing coleslaw with a tangy dressing balances the richness of the honey butter garlic sauce. It adds crunch and a touch of acidity to the meal.
3. Steamed Broccoli with Lemon Butter
A simple side of steamed broccoli with a squeeze of lemon and a little melted butter pairs well with the chicken tenders, adding a healthy element to the dish.
4. Honey Butter Cornbread
Soft and slightly sweet cornbread complements the honey butter glaze, creating a cohesive meal with similar flavors.
5. Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries
Crispy sweet potato fries offer a naturally sweet contrast to the savory chicken tenders while keeping the meal light and satisfying.
6. Classic Mac and Cheese
A creamy, cheesy side dish like mac and cheese adds richness and pairs well with the crispy texture of the chicken tenders.
7. Caesar Salad
A crisp Caesar salad with romaine lettuce, Parmesan cheese, croutons, and a creamy dressing provides a fresh contrast to the warm, crispy tenders.
8. Grilled Asparagus with Parmesan
Lightly grilled asparagus topped with Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of olive oil is a simple yet flavorful side that complements the dish without overpowering it.
These side dishes help create a complete meal that enhances the flavors and textures of the air fryer honey butter garlic chicken tenders, making them even more enjoyable.
Recipe Tips, Storage, and FAQs
Expert Tips for the Best Chicken Tenders
1. Use Panko Breadcrumbs for Extra Crunch
Panko breadcrumbs create a crispier coating compared to regular breadcrumbs. If you prefer a lighter, airier texture, panko is the best choice.
2. Press the Coating Firmly Onto the Chicken
To ensure the breadcrumbs stick well, press them onto the chicken tenders after dipping them in the honey butter garlic mixture. This helps prevent the coating from falling off during cooking.
3. Adjust the Seasoning to Your Taste
For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the seasoning. If you prefer a more garlicky flavor, increase the amount of minced garlic.
4. Don’t Skip the Halfway Flip
Flipping the chicken tenders at the halfway mark allows them to cook evenly and develop a golden-brown crust on both sides.
5. Serve Immediately for the Best Texture
While these tenders can be reheated, they are crispiest when served fresh. If making them for a gathering, plan to serve them right after cooking.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
How to Store Leftovers
- Refrigeration: Place leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze cooked tenders in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 2 months.
How to Reheat Without Losing Crispiness
- Air Fryer: Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 3-4 minutes until warm and crispy.
- Oven: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes on a wire rack to maintain crispness.
- Microwave: Not recommended, as it may make the tenders soggy. If necessary, microwave for 30-40 seconds, then crisp in the air fryer or oven.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Tenders?
Yes. Slice boneless, skinless chicken breasts into strips to create tenders. The cooking time may vary slightly depending on thickness.
2. How Do I Prevent the Breading from Falling Off?
Make sure to press the breadcrumbs firmly onto the chicken and let them rest for a few minutes before air frying. Also, avoid excessive handling once placed in the air fryer.
3. Can I Bake These in the Oven Instead?
Yes. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and fully cooked.
4. What Is the Best Dipping Sauce for These Tenders?
Popular options include ranch dressing, honey mustard, garlic aioli, barbecue sauce, and extra honey butter garlic sauce.
5. Can I Use Gluten-Free Breadcrumbs?
Yes. Substitute with gluten-free panko or crushed gluten-free crackers for a gluten-free version.
6. How Can I Make These Dairy-Free?
Replace the butter with a dairy-free alternative such as olive oil or a plant-based butter substitute.
These air fryer honey butter garlic chicken tenders are easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for any meal. With the right storage and reheating techniques, you can enjoy them fresh and crispy every time.
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