Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450g) chicken tenders
• 1 cup buttermilk (for marinating)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• Salt & pepper to taste
• 1 cup flour (for dredging)
• 2 large eggs (beaten)
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs

For Honey Butter Garlic Sauce:

• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes

Instructions

1. Marinate Chicken:
   • Place chicken tenders in a bowl with buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
   • Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for more flavor).
2. Prepare Coating:
   • Set up a dredging station with 3 bowls: flour in one, beaten eggs in the second, and panko breadcrumbs in the third.
3. Coat Chicken:
   • Remove tenders from marinade. Dredge in flour, then egg, then coat with panko breadcrumbs.
4. Air Fry:
   • Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
   • Lightly spray the basket with oil. Place tenders in a single layer (work in batches if needed).
   • Air fry for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Make Honey Butter Garlic Sauce:
   • In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt butter.
   • Add garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes.
   • Stir in honey, soy sauce, and red pepper flakes (if using). Simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
6. Toss & Serve:
   • Toss the cooked tenders in the warm honey butter garlic sauce.
   • Serve hot with a sprinkle of chopped parsley or green onions (optional).

Let me know if you want a spicier version or dipping sauce ideas!