Description
If you’re looking for crispy, juicy, and flavor-packed chicken tenders, these Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders are the ultimate treat! They’re coated in a golden honey butter garlic sauce that brings the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and garlicky goodness. Plus, using an air fryer makes them crispy without the extra oil from deep frying!
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Ingredients
For the Chicken Tenders:
- Chicken Tenders (1 lb) – Boneless and skinless
- All-Purpose Flour (½ cup) – For the first coating
- Eggs (2 large) – For dredging
- Panko Breadcrumbs (1 cup) – Adds extra crispiness
- Garlic Powder (1 tsp) – Enhances the flavor
- Onion Powder (1 tsp) – Adds depth
- Smoked Paprika (½ tsp) – A hint of smokiness
- Salt & Pepper – To taste
- Olive Oil Spray – For crisping in the air fryer
For the Honey Butter Garlic Sauce:
- Honey (¼ cup) – The perfect natural sweetness
- Butter (3 tbsp) – For richness and silkiness
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced) – The star of the sauce
- Soy Sauce (1 tbsp) – Balances the sweetness
- Lemon Juice (1 tsp) – A touch of acidity for brightness
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Breading Station
- In one bowl, add flour and season with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- In a second bowl, whisk the eggs.
- In a third bowl, place the panko breadcrumbs.
Step 2: Coat the Chicken
- Dredge each chicken tender in the seasoned flour, then dip into the eggs, and finally coat with panko breadcrumbs. Press lightly to ensure the breadcrumbs stick.
Step 3: Air Fry the Chicken
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Spray the air fryer basket with olive oil spray. Arrange the chicken tenders in a single layer.
- Lightly spray the tops of the tenders with olive oil spray.
- Air fry for 10 minutes, flip, and cook for another 5–7 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
Step 4: Make the Honey Butter Garlic Sauce
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in honey, soy sauce, and lemon juice. Simmer for 2 minutes, then remove from heat.
Step 5: Toss and Serve
- Drizzle or toss the crispy chicken tenders in the warm honey butter garlic sauce.
- Serve immediately with your favorite sides and enjoy!
Notes
- Don’t Overcrowd: Cook in batches if necessary for even crispiness.
- Use Panko Breadcrumbs: They make the tenders extra crispy.
- Spray with Olive Oil: Helps achieve a golden brown crust.
- Serve Immediately: Best enjoyed fresh and crispy.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Cuisine: American