Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders – Crispy, Juicy & Flavor-Packed
These Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders are the perfect mix of crispy, juicy, and saucy! Coated in a golden crust and tossed in a sweet, buttery garlic glaze, these tenders are a family-friendly dinner or game-day favorite. Made in the air fryer for a healthier twist, they’re quick, easy, and packed with irresistible flavor. Serve with fries, rice, or veggies for a complete meal everyone will love!
Equipment
- Air fryer (basket or oven style)
- Mixing bowls
- Tongs
- Pastry brush
- Small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl
- Meat thermometer
Ingredients
For Chicken Tenders:
- 1 lb chicken tenders (or chicken breast cut into strips)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs (beaten)
- 1 ½ cups panko breadcrumbs (or regular breadcrumbs)
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Olive oil spray (for air fryer)
For Honey Butter Garlic Glaze:
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- ¼ cup honey
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- ½ tsp soy sauce (optional, for depth)
- ½ tsp red chili flakes (optional, for spice)
Instructions
- Prep Chicken: Pat chicken tenders dry with paper towels.
- Set Up Breading Station: In three bowls—flour with paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper; beaten eggs; breadcrumbs.
- Coat Chicken: Dredge each tender in flour → dip in egg → coat with breadcrumbs.
- Air Fry: Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Spray basket lightly with oil. Arrange tenders in a single layer (do not overcrowd). Air fry for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and internal temp reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Make Sauce: In a small saucepan (or microwave), melt butter. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant. Stir in honey (and soy sauce/chili flakes if using). Cook until slightly thickened and glossy.
- Glaze Tenders: Remove chicken from air fryer and brush or toss in honey butter garlic sauce.
- Serve: Let rest 2 minutes, then serve warm with extra sauce for dipping.
Notes
- Crispier Tenders: Use panko breadcrumbs for crunchier texture.
- Healthier Option: Skip flour dredge and use seasoned breadcrumbs only.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Store leftovers in an airtight container up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer for best texture.
- Flavor Variations: Add Parmesan to breadcrumbs, swap honey with maple syrup, or add cayenne for heat.
- Serving Ideas: Pair with fries, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.