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Crispy air fryer honey butter garlic chicken tenders served with dipping sauce
Mason

Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders

Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders are crispy, juicy, and full of flavor, all without the need for deep frying. This easy air fryer recipe combines the sweetness of honey, the richness of butter, and the aroma of garlic for an irresistible meal or snack. Perfect for busy weeknights, game days, or anytime you crave something deliciously quick!
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 22 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Dish, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 310
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Ingredients for Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders
  • 1 lb chicken tenders
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter melted
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs panko or regular
  • cooking spray for greasing air fryer basket

Equipment

  • 1 air fryer for cooking chicken tenders
  • 2 mixing bowls for coating and breading
  • tongs for flipping chicken
  • meat thermometer optional, to check for doneness
  • cooking spray to prevent sticking in air fryer

Method
 

  1. Make the honey garlic mixture: In a bowl, whisk together honey, melted butter, minced garlic, paprika, salt, and black pepper until fully combined.
  2. Coat the chicken: Add chicken tenders to the bowl and toss until each piece is evenly coated in the honey garlic mixture.
  3. Bread the chicken: Spread breadcrumbs on a plate. Dredge each coated tender in breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure an even coating.
  4. Preheat and prep: Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C). Spray the basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
  5. Air fry: Arrange chicken tenders in a single layer in the basket (avoid overlapping). Air fry for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and cooked through.
  6. Serve: Let the tenders rest for a few minutes. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.

Notes

Serving: Serve these crispy chicken tenders with ranch, barbecue sauce, or honey mustard. Pair with fries, salad, or coleslaw for a complete meal.
Storage: Cool completely before refrigerating in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to regain crispiness.
Tips:
• Coat tenders evenly for maximum flavor.
• Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
• Don’t overcrowd the basket, cook in batches if needed.
• Add cayenne or hot sauce for a spicy version.
Variations: Try adding Italian seasoning or garlic powder to the breadcrumbs. You can also use chicken breast strips instead of tenders.