There’s something truly special about pulling a batch of crispy, golden chicken tenders from the air fryer, their surface glistening with a rich honey butter glaze. Each bite delivers a delightful crunch, followed by tender chicken infused with a savory garlic goodness that’s sweetened just right. It’s a dish that never fails to bring a smile to my family’s faces, making it a regular staple in my kitchen for cozy family dinners and quick weeknight meals alike.
I’ve found that these delightful Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders come together surprisingly fast, making them perfect for those busy nights when you still want something scrumptious on the table. Versatile and crowd-pleasing, they’re an excellent choice for family gatherings or a casual weeknight dinner. Not to mention, the leftovers (if there are any!) make for a fabulous lunch the next day.
WHY I LOVE AIR FRYER HONEY BUTTER GARLIC CHICKEN TENDERS
Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders
A true winner at my table, these tenders hit that sweet spot between savory and a hint of sweet—thanks to the honey and butter combo! This recipe is incredibly easy and undeniably delicious, making it a go-to for me. The air fryer gives them that perfect crunch without the guilt of deep frying, and with so much flavor packed into each tender, you just can’t go wrong!
AIR FRYER HONEY BUTTER GARLIC CHICKEN TENDERS INGREDIENTS
The magic of this dish truly lies in the harmonious blend of crunchy breadcrumbs, savory garlic, and a touch of sweetness from the honey. Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating that mouthwatering flavor. Don’t worry about exact measurements just yet; those are all in the recipe card for you!
Core Ingredients and Their Roles
- 1 LB CHICKEN TENDERS: The stars of this dish; these juicy tenders provide a perfect base for all the delicious flavors.
- ¼ CUP HONEY: Adds that beautiful hint of sweetness, making each bite oh-so-satisfying.
- 2 TBSP UNSALTED BUTTER, MELTED: This not only brings richness but also helps the honey and garlic stick beautifully to the tender chicken.
- 3 CLOVES GARLIC, MINCED: The fragrant aromatic that elevates this dish, providing a savory punch.
- 1 TSP PAPRIKA: Adds a subtle warmth and depth, enhancing the overall flavor.
- 1 TSP SALT: Essential for bringing out all the lovely tastes.
- ½ TSP BLACK PEPPER: Adds just the right amount of kick.
- 1 CUP BREADCRUMBS (PANKO OR REGULAR): These little gems pack a mighty punch, giving the tenders a crispy coating!
- COOKING SPRAY: A little spritz helps achieve that desired crispness without excess oil.
SUBSTITUTIONS AND TIPS
Need a swap? If you’re out of honey, you can use maple syrup for a different but delicious sweetness. Want to switch things up? Try using skinless chicken thighs instead of tenders for a richer flavor. You can also mix in your favorite herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, for an aromatic twist. If you’re in a pinch and don’t have panko breadcrumbs, regular breadcrumbs will work just fine, though it won’t be quite as crispy. Just remember, cooking time may vary slightly based on your air fryer model, so keep an eye on those tenders!
KITCHEN TOOLS YOU’LL NEED
- Air fryer (model of your choice)
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk or spoon for mixing
- Separate plate for breadcrumbs
- Cooking spray (oil mister works great!)
- Tongs for flipping the tenders
HOW TO MAKE AIR FRYER HONEY BUTTER GARLIC CHICKEN TENDERS
Let’s dive into creating this delicious Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders. I’ve broken down the process into simple steps. Follow along, and you’ll have a delightful meal in no time! We’re aiming for perfectly crispy, tender chicken that’s bursting with flavor.
Mix the Sweet and Savory
In a bowl, mix together honey, melted butter, minced garlic, paprika, salt, and black pepper until well combined. This mixture is where the magic happens; it’s what gives the chicken that sweet, buttery, garlicky goodness.
Coat the Chicken Tenders
Add chicken tenders to the bowl and coat them evenly with the honey garlic mixture. Get those pieces all nice and merry together—this step is key! You want every inch of chicken to absorb that gorgeous flavor.
Dredge in Breadcrumbs
In a separate plate, spread the breadcrumbs. Dredge each chicken tender in the breadcrumbs, making sure they are fully coated. This crunchy layer makes all the difference—don’t skimp on the coating!
Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) and spray the basket with cooking spray. This helps achieve that golden crispiness we’re looking for. Take a moment to prepare; a hot air fryer makes for an even cooking time.
Lay Out for Air Frying
Place the breaded chicken tenders in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they do not overlap. It’s important to give them space so they can cook evenly and crisp up perfectly on all sides.
Air Fry to Perfection
Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until chicken is cooked through and golden brown. Keep an eye on them—the aroma wafting through your kitchen will have your mouth watering!
Rest and Serve
Remove from the air fryer and let rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to distribute evenly, ensuring every bite is as tender as can be.
HOW TO STORE AIR FRYER HONEY BUTTER GARLIC CHICKEN TENDERS
Leftover chicken tenders can be just as tasty! If you have any left (which is rare in my house), let them cool to room temperature and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze them for up to 2-3 months—just be sure to thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating. To reheat, pop them back into the air fryer for a few minutes until warmed through and crispy again.
TIPS FOR SUCCESS
- Pat chicken tenders really dry before coating; this ensures the honey mixture sticks well.
- Ensure the air fryer isn’t overcrowded; this permits proper air circulation for the perfect crispiness.
- Don’t skip the resting time after air frying; it helps in locking in the juices.
- Use high-quality honey for the best flavor profile.
- Play with spices if you want; cayenne pepper can add a fun twist!
SERVING SUGGESTIONS
- Serve with a side of crispy fries or sweet potato wedges for a classic combo.
- Pair with a fresh garden salad for a vibrant touch.
- Drizzle with extra honey for a sweet finishing touch!
- Try dipping them in ranch dressing or garlic aioli for that added yum factor.
- A chilled sweet tea or sparkling lemonade makes for a refreshing drink alongside!
I hope you love these incredible Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders as much as I do. Share them with your friends and family; I promise they won’t be able to resist! Enjoy your cooking!
