When it comes to quick and satisfying meals, chicken tenders are a classic go-to. This honey garlic version adds a delightful twist by combining rich flavors with an irresistibly crunchy texture, all without deep frying. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner, prepping for a party appetizer, or just craving a homemade crispy snack, these tenders will hit the spot. Using an air fryer not only speeds up the cooking time, but also keeps the tenders light and golden without the excess oil. The butter-honey-garlic coating infuses the chicken with incredible flavor before it’s coated in breadcrumbs and air-fried to perfection. These are so good, they might not even make it to the table!
🛒 Ingredients:
- 1 lb (approx. 450 g) chicken tenders
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- Cooking spray or oil for air fryer
👨🍳 Preparation:
- Prepare the flavor mixture:
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, honey, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well until the honey is fully incorporated into the butter and the garlic is evenly distributed. - Coat the chicken tenders:
Dip each chicken tender into the honey-garlic mixture, making sure it’s completely coated. Then roll the tender in breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure the coating sticks well. Repeat with all pieces. - Preheat the air fryer (optional):
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for a few minutes if your model requires it. - Arrange and spray:
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with oil. Place the breaded tenders in a single layer in the basket. Avoid overcrowding to ensure even cooking. Spray the tops of the tenders lightly with oil to help them crisp up. - Cook:
Air fry the tenders at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through the cooking time. The tenders are done when they are golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). - Serve and enjoy:
Let the tenders rest for 2 minutes after cooking. Serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauces like ranch, spicy mayo, or extra honey garlic glaze.
🌟 Tips and Variations:
- Extra crunch: Use panko breadcrumbs for an extra crispy texture.
- Spicy twist: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the butter mixture if you like a bit of heat.
- Meal idea: Serve these tenders over a bed of salad, rice, or in a wrap with coleslaw and pickles for a full meal.
- Make-ahead: You can bread the tenders and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before air frying.
Whether you’re serving them to kids, guests, or just treating yourself, these air fryer honey garlic chicken tenders are sure to be a hit. Juicy, golden, and full of flavor – you’ll be reaching for seconds (or thirds)!
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Would you like a dipping sauce recipe to go with them?