Air fryer honey butter garlic chicken tenders are a perfect family-friendly dish. They are tender, crispy, and so easy to make. With a sweet, rich glaze and a beautiful golden crust, these chicken tenders are sure to please everyone at the table. They’re great for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings!

Why You Will Love This Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders

These chicken tenders are a hit for so many reasons. They’re simple to prepare, using everyday ingredients you might already have at home. Plus, they cook quickly in the air fryer, delivering that crunchy texture without the mess of frying. Everyone in the family will love the sweet and savory taste, making them a go-to meal for any night.

How to Make Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders

Making these chicken tenders is straightforward. You’ll mix a flavorful honey garlic glaze, coat the chicken, and then air fry until crispy and golden. It only takes a few easy steps to create this delicious dish that the whole family will enjoy.

What You Need

1 lb chicken tenders
¼ cup honey
2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
Cooking spray

Step-by-Step

In a bowl, mix together honey, melted butter, minced garlic, paprika, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
Add chicken tenders to the bowl and coat them evenly with the honey garlic mixture.
In a separate plate, spread the breadcrumbs.
Dredge each chicken tender in the breadcrumbs and ensure they are fully coated.
Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) and spray the basket with cooking spray.
Place the breaded chicken tenders in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they do not overlap.
Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until chicken is cooked through and golden brown.
Remove from the air fryer and let rest for a few minutes before serving.

How to Serve Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders

These chicken tenders pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. Serve them alongside crispy fries or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. They’re great for family dinners, movie nights, or even picnics. You can also dip them in your favorite sauces, like ranch or honey mustard, for extra flavor.

How to Store Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders

To keep your leftovers fresh, place them in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze them, wrap them tightly and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. To reheat, just pop them back in the air fryer for a few minutes at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

Recipe Tips

Make sure the chicken tenders are evenly coated in the honey garlic mixture for maximum flavor.
Flip the chicken halfway through cooking for a consistent golden finish.
If using panko breadcrumbs, expect an even crunchier texture.
Experiment with different spices like cayenne or Italian seasoning for added flavor.
Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket; this helps achieve a nice crisp finish.

Variations & Swaps

Swap honey for maple syrup for a different sweetness flavor.
Use boneless chicken thighs instead of tenders for a juicier result.
Add grated Parmesan cheese to the breadcrumbs for a cheesy kick.
Try a spicy twist by adding sriracha to the honey garlic mixture.
Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free.

FAQs

Can I make these chicken tenders ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken tenders and coat them in the honey garlic mixture ahead of time. Store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before air frying. This makes weeknight meals even easier!

Can these tenders be frozen?
Absolutely! After cooking, let them cool completely. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 2 months. To reheat, cook in the air fryer until crispy.

What’s the best way to reheat leftover chicken tenders?
The air fryer is ideal for reheating. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C) and place the tenders inside. Cook for about 5-7 minutes or until heated through. This will help retain their crispiness.

What can I serve with these tenders?
They go well with many sides! Consider pairing them with coleslaw, roasted veggies, or mashed potatoes. Adding a dipping sauce like barbecue or ranch enhances the meal.

What mistakes should I avoid?
One common mistake is overlapping the chicken in the air fryer. Make sure they are in a single layer to ensure proper cooking and even crisping. Also, don’t skip preheating the air fryer for the best results.