Introduction
Transform your meal times with these Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders, a dish that marries convenience with incredible flavor. Perfect for a quick family dinner or a special appetizer, these chicken tenders are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and glazed with a sweet and savory honey garlic butter sauce. This recipe not only simplifies cooking with the use of an air fryer, but it also promises a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken.
Ingredients
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1 lb chicken tenders
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¼ cup honey
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2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
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3 cloves garlic, minced
-
1 tsp paprika
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1 tsp salt
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½ tsp black pepper
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1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
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Cooking spray
Preparation
Step 1: Make the Honey Garlic Mixture
In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, melted butter, minced garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. Reserve half of this mixture in a separate container to use as a drizzle after cooking, enhancing the final flavor.
Step 2: Coat the Chicken
Dip each chicken tender into the honey garlic mixture, ensuring each piece is well coated. Then, roll them in breadcrumbs until fully covered. This creates the perfect crust that will become delightfully crispy.
Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature is crucial for achieving a crispy exterior while keeping the interior juicy.
Step 4: Arrange and Cook
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Arrange the chicken tenders in a single layer, working in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding. Air fry for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the tenders are golden brown and fully cooked.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
After cooking, drizzle the reserved honey garlic sauce over the chicken tenders for an added layer of flavor. This step enhances the tenderness with a sweet and savory finish.
Variation
For a spicier version, add a teaspoon of chili flakes to the honey garlic mixture before coating the chicken.
Cooking Note
It’s important not to overcrowd the air fryer basket, as doing so can result in uneven cooking and less crispiness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these chicken tenders with a side of light coleslaw, sweet potato fries, or a simple green salad for a balanced meal.
Tips
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Ensure Crispiness: Pat the chicken dry before coating to help the breadcrumbs stick and to achieve maximum crispiness.
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Even Cooking: Flip the tenders halfway through cooking to ensure they are evenly cooked and crisped on all sides.
Prep Time
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10 minutes
Cooking Time
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12 minutes
Total Time
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22 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving)
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Calories: 320
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Protein: 27g
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Sodium: 590mg
FAQs
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Can I make this recipe gluten-free? Yes, simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs to coat the chicken tenders.
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What can I use instead of honey? Maple syrup is a great alternative if you prefer a different kind of sweetness or need a vegan option.
Conclusion
Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders offer a delightful twist on a classic favorite, making them perfect for any occasion. With their crisp texture and a delectable honey garlic flavor, these tenders will satisfy cravings and impress your guests, all while keeping cooking simple and mess-free. Try this recipe today and savor the ease and deliciousness of air-fried perfection.
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Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders Recipe
- Total Time: 22 minutes
Description
Transform your meal times with these Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders, a dish that marries convenience with incredible flavor. Perfect for a quick family dinner or a special appetizer, these chicken tenders are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and glazed with a sweet and savory honey garlic butter sauce. This recipe not only simplifies cooking with the use of an air fryer, but it also promises a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken.
Ingredients
-
1 lb chicken tenders
-
¼ cup honey
-
2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
-
3 cloves garlic, minced
-
1 tsp paprika
-
1 tsp salt
-
½ tsp black pepper
-
1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
-
Cooking spray
Instructions
In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, melted butter, minced garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. Reserve half of this mixture in a separate container to use as a drizzle after cooking, enhancing the final flavor.
Dip each chicken tender into the honey garlic mixture, ensuring each piece is well coated. Then, roll them in breadcrumbs until fully covered. This creates the perfect crust that will become delightfully crispy.
Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature is crucial for achieving a crispy exterior while keeping the interior juicy.
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Arrange the chicken tenders in a single layer, working in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding. Air fry for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the tenders are golden brown and fully cooked.
After cooking, drizzle the reserved honey garlic sauce over the chicken tenders for an added layer of flavor. This step enhances the tenderness with a sweet and savory finish.
Notes
It’s important not to overcrowd the air fryer basket, as doing so can result in uneven cooking and less crispiness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 320
- Sodium: 590mg
- Protein: 27g