There’s something irresistibly comforting about crispy chicken tenders—especially when they’re coated in a luscious honey butter garlic sauce. Whether you’re planning a cozy night in, a fun weekend meal with the family, or simply want to impress guests at your next gathering, these Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders hit all the right notes.
Inspired by classic Southern flavors with a modern twist, this dish combines the magic of air frying with a mouthwatering glaze that balances sweet, savory, and spicy. These golden brown tenders come out perfectly crisp on the outside, juicy on the inside, and generously coated with a buttery garlic sauce that’ll have everyone reaching for seconds (or thirds).
And here’s the best part: they’re incredibly easy to make and lighter than traditional deep-fried tenders. If you love bold flavors, crispy textures, and simple prep, this recipe will quickly become a go-to favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These crispy honey butter garlic chicken strips are more than just another chicken dish. Here’s why this recipe is worth making tonight:
- ✅ Air Fryer Magic: Less oil, less mess, and still ultra-crispy.
- 🍯 Sticky-Sweet Sauce: A luscious honey butter glaze with a garlicky kick.
- ⏱️ Quick & Easy: 10-minute prep and 12-minute cook time.
- 👨👩👧👦 Family-Friendly: Kid-approved and great for picky eaters.
- 🎉 Perfect for Any Occasion: Game night, weeknight dinner, or party snack.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps it simple, using pantry staples that you likely already have on hand. Here’s everything you’ll need to bring these golden tenders to life:
For the Chicken Tenders:
- 1 lb chicken tenders
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika – Adds a touch of warmth and color.
- 1 large egg – Helps the breadcrumbs stick.
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs – For that signature crunch.
- Cooking spray – Ensures crispiness without deep frying.
For the Honey Butter Garlic Sauce:
- ½ cup honey – The star of the glaze.
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted – Rich and silky.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced – A punch of flavor.
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce – Adds umami depth.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard – Balances the sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) – For a little heat.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Your Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) while you prep the chicken. This ensures even cooking and maximum crispiness.
Step 2: Prepare the Breading Stations
In three shallow bowls:
- Bowl 1: Mix the flour, salt, black pepper, and paprika.
- Bowl 2: Whisk the egg until smooth.
- Bowl 3: Add the panko breadcrumbs.
Step 3: Bread the Chicken
Take each chicken tender and:
- Dredge in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
- Dip into the egg, coating thoroughly.
- Press into the panko breadcrumbs to coat all sides.
Set aside on a plate while you finish the rest.
Step 4: Air Fry to Crispy Perfection
Spray the air fryer basket lightly with cooking spray. Arrange the tenders in a single layer (you may need to cook in batches).
- Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- The tenders should be golden brown and reach an internal temp of 165°F (74°C).
Step 5: Make the Honey Butter Garlic Sauce
While the tenders are cooking, prepare your glaze:
- In a saucepan over low heat, combine:
- Honey
- Melted butter
- Minced garlic
- Soy sauce
- Dijon mustard
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
- Stir until the sauce is warm and the flavors meld—about 3-5 minutes.
Step 6: Toss and Serve
Once the tenders are cooked, transfer them to a large bowl. Pour the warm honey butter garlic sauce over the top and gently toss until every tender is glazed.
Serve immediately while they’re hot and crispy!
Serving Suggestions
These chicken tenders are so versatile, they pair with just about anything! Try one of these options:
- 🍚 Serve over rice for a complete meal.
- 🥗 Add to a salad for a crispy protein upgrade.
- 🧄 Pair with garlic mashed potatoes and green beans.
- 🌮 Wrap in a tortilla with slaw for honey garlic chicken tacos.
- 🍟 Serve with fries and your favorite dipping sauce.
Tips for the Best Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
To make sure your tenders turn out perfect every time, keep these helpful tips in mind:
1. Don’t Overcrowd the Air Fryer
Leave space between each piece so air can circulate. This helps each tender crisp up evenly.
2. Spray the Chicken Lightly
A light mist of cooking spray over the top of the tenders gives them that extra golden crunch without the need for deep frying.
3. Use Panko for Extra Crunch
Panko breadcrumbs create a lighter, crispier coating than traditional breadcrumbs. Don’t substitute if you want that signature crunch!
4. Warm the Sauce Gently
Don’t boil the honey butter sauce. Just warm it enough to blend the ingredients and infuse the garlic flavor.
5. Make it Spicy or Sweet
Adjust the red pepper flakes to your preferred spice level—or leave them out for a kid-friendly version. Want it sweeter? Add a touch more honey.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
These tenders are best served fresh, but they can be stored and reheated with great results:
- Store: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Pop them back in the air fryer at 350°F for 4-5 minutes until warmed through. This helps maintain the crispiness.
You can also reheat in the oven or microwave, but the air fryer yields the best texture.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?
Absolutely! Just cut the chicken breasts into strips similar in size to tenders so they cook evenly.
What if I don’t have an air fryer?
No problem! You can bake the tenders in a conventional oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! Swap the flour for a gluten-free blend and use gluten-free panko. Double-check all sauces for gluten-free labels.
Is this recipe spicy?
It can be! The red pepper flakes add heat, but you can adjust or omit them depending on your preference.
More Air Fryer Chicken Recipes You’ll Love
If you loved this recipe, don’t stop here! Check out these air fryer favorites:
- Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Bites
- Garlic Parmesan Chicken Wings
- Sweet Chili Glazed Chicken Thighs
- Air Fryer Lemon Pepper Chicken Tenders
Final Thoughts: Your New Go-To Chicken Tender Recipe
These Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders are the ultimate fusion of comfort food and modern convenience. With just a few simple ingredients and less than 25 minutes, you’ll have a show-stopping dish that’s crispy, flavorful, and impossible to resist.
Whether you’re cooking for family, entertaining friends, or just treating yourself to something special, this recipe is a surefire crowd-pleaser. Sweet, garlicky, buttery, and just the right amount of spicy—it’s got it all.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab your air fryer and get cooking! Don’t forget to share your creations on social media and tag your favorite foodie friends. 🍗✨
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 22 minutes
Calories: 315 kcal per serving
Servings: 4