Indulge in the perfect combination of crispy, juicy, and flavorful chicken tenders with this Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders recipe. These tenders are coated in a golden-brown crispy crust, then tossed in a luscious honey butter garlic sauce, making them irresistibly delicious. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner, a game-day snack, or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, these chicken tenders will surely impress. The air fryer makes them healthier by cutting down on oil while still delivering a crunchy exterior and tender, juicy inside.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken tenders
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- 2 eggs
- 2 tbsp milk
- Cooking spray or oil
For Honey Butter Garlic Sauce:
- ¼ cup honey
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 5 minutes.
- Set up a dredging station with three bowls: one with flour mixed with salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper; the second with beaten eggs and milk; the third with panko breadcrumbs.
- Dip each chicken tender into the flour mixture, ensuring it is evenly coated.
- Next, dip it into the egg mixture, letting the excess drip off.
- Finally, coat the tender with panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray and arrange the chicken tenders in a single layer without overcrowding.
- Spray the top of the tenders with cooking spray to enhance crispiness.
- Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes, flip the tenders, and cook for another 5-7 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
- While the chicken is cooking, prepare the honey butter garlic sauce. In a small pan over medium heat, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
- Add honey, soy sauce, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes. Stir well and let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Once the tenders are done, transfer them to a bowl and pour the warm honey butter garlic sauce over them. Toss to coat evenly.
- Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce or a side of vegetables.