These air fryer chicken tenders are a game-changer for weeknight dinners. Quick to prepare and healthier than deep-fried versions, they emerge wonderfully crispy and are then coated in a rich, flavorful honey butter garlic sauce that will have everyone asking for seconds. It’s comfort food made easy!
Air Fryer Honey Butter Tenders
These air fryer chicken tenders are a game-changer for weeknight dinners. Quick to prepare and healthier than deep-fried versions, they emerge wonderfully crispy and are then coated in a rich, flavorful honey butter garlic sauce that will have everyone asking for seconds. It's comfort food made easy!
Ingredients
- 1.5 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 0.5 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp paprika
- 0.5 tsp garlic powder
- 0.5 tsp onion powder
- 0.5 tsp salt
- 0.25 tsp black pepper
- 2 large eggs beaten
- 0.5 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp olive oil for spraying
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter melted
- 2 tbsp honey
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 0.5 tsp red pepper flakes optional
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley chopped
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- In a shallow dish, combine flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- In another shallow dish, beat the eggs.
- In a third shallow dish, place the panko breadcrumbs.
- Dredge each chicken tender first in the flour mixture, shaking off excess, then dip into the beaten eggs, and finally coat evenly with panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
- Lightly spray the breaded chicken tenders with olive oil on both sides.
- Place the tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring not to overcrowd. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Air fry for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F/74°C).
- While the chicken cooks, prepare the honey butter garlic sauce: In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Stir in the honey, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Once the chicken tenders are done, transfer them to a large bowl. Pour the honey butter garlic sauce over the tenders and toss gently to coat them evenly.
- Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
For extra crispy tenders, do not overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches if necessary. You can adjust the amount of red pepper flakes for more or less spice. Serve with a side of mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
