Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders: Crispy, Juicy & Irresistible! 🍯🧄🍗
Introduction: The Perfect Balance of Crunch & Flavor
Craving crispy, flavorful chicken tenders without the guilt of deep frying? These Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders are the perfect balance of crispy, juicy, and flavorful, thanks to a golden breadcrumb coating and a rich honey butter garlic glaze.
With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, these chicken tenders come out perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside—without the mess of deep frying! Whether you’re making a quick weeknight dinner, a kid-friendly meal, or a game-day snack, this easy air fryer recipe will be your new go-to.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Crispy without deep frying – Thanks to the air fryer, you get the crunch you love with less oil.
✔ Sweet & Savory Perfection – The honey butter garlic glaze adds a delicious balance of flavors.
✔ Quick & Easy – Ready in under 20 minutes, perfect for busy days!
✔ Kid-Friendly – A meal the whole family will love.
✔ High-Protein & Low Oil – A healthier alternative to traditional fried tenders.
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Ingredients You’ll Need
🥣 For the Chicken Tenders:
✔ 1 lb chicken tenders
✔ 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
✔ ½ teaspoon salt
✔ ¼ teaspoon black pepper
🥄 For the Honey Butter Garlic Glaze:
✔ 4 tablespoons butter, melted
✔ 3 tablespoons honey 🍯
✔ 3 cloves garlic, minced 🧄
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Step-by-Step Instructions
1️⃣ Prep the Chicken
1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Pat the chicken tenders dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
3. In a bowl, mix breadcrumbs, salt, and black pepper.
2️⃣ Coat the Chicken
4. Dip each chicken tender into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring it’s well coated.
5. Lightly press the breadcrumbs onto the tenders so they stick.
3️⃣ Air Fry the Chicken
6. Spray the air fryer basket with non-stick cooking spray or lightly coat with oil.
7. Place the coated chicken tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
8. Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the tenders are golden brown and crispy.
4️⃣ Make the Honey Butter Garlic Glaze
9. While the chicken cooks, melt butter in a small pan over medium heat.
🔟 Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
1️⃣1️⃣ Stir in honey and mix well until combined.
5️⃣ Coat & Serve
1️⃣2️⃣ Remove the chicken tenders from the air fryer and immediately toss them in the warm honey butter garlic glaze.
1️⃣3️⃣ Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce!
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Pro Tips for the Best Chicken Tenders
✔ Use panko breadcrumbs – For an extra crispy texture.
✔ Don’t overcrowd the air fryer – Cook in batches if necessary to ensure even crispiness.
✔ Want extra crunch? Double-coat the tenders by dipping them in a beaten egg before rolling in breadcrumbs.
✔ Prefer spicier tenders? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mix!
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Best Dipping Sauces
🍯 Honey Mustard – Sweet & tangy combo!
🧄 Garlic Aioli – A creamy, garlicky delight.
🔥 Spicy Sriracha Mayo – For a kick of heat!
🥒 Ranch Dressing – Classic and cool.
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Health Benefits of Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
✅ Less Oil, Fewer Calories – Air frying reduces oil usage by up to 80% compared to deep frying.
✅ High in Protein – Chicken tenders provide lean protein for muscle growth and energy.
✅ Rich in Antioxidants – Garlic contains powerful immune-boosting properties.
✅ Natural Sweetness – Honey offers a healthier alternative to refined sugars.
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Storage & Reheating Tips
How to Store
🔹 Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
🔹 Freeze: Freeze uncooked, breaded tenders for up to 3 months for easy meal prep.
How to Reheat
🔥 Air Fryer: Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes to restore crispiness.
🔥 Oven: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes.
🔥 Microwave: Not recommended—it makes them soggy!
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I make this recipe without an air fryer?
Yes! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, or pan-fry in a skillet with a little oil.
Q2: Can I make these tenders gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure all ingredients are gluten-free.
Q3: Can I add seasonings to the breadcrumb mixture?
Yes! Try adding paprika, garlic powder, or Italian seasoning for extra flavor.
Q4: What’s the best way to keep chicken tenders crispy?
Serve immediately after air frying. If reheating, use an air fryer or oven instead of the microwave.
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Conclusion: Your New Favorite Air Fryer Recipe!
These Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders are the perfect mix of crispy, juicy, and flavorful—with a deliciously sticky honey butter garlic glaze that keeps you coming back for more! 🍯🔥
✔ Crispy yet healthier than deep-fried versions.
✔ Quick & easy to prepare.
✔ A guaranteed hit with kids and adults alike!
👉 Try this recipe today and let us know: Are you team spicy or sweet when it comes to chicken tenders? Drop your answer in the comments! 👇🍗
🔥 Loved this recipe? Share it with your friends and family and let them enjoy this easy air fryer delight too!
