Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders

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Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders

Introduction

If you’re looking for a delicious and easy chicken recipe that’s sweet, savory, and perfectly crispy, these Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders are your new favorite go to. They combine the richness of melted butter, the natural sweetness of honey, and the bold flavor of garlic, all wrapped around juicy chicken tenders that are air fried to golden perfection.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Crispy Texture Without Deep Frying: The air fryer gives you the fried texture with minimal oil.

  • Sweet and Savory Flavor Combo: The honey butter garlic glaze is both indulgent and balanced.

  • Quick Weeknight Meal: Ready in less than 30 minutes.

  • Kid-Friendly: A flavor combination that the whole family will love.

  • Customizable: Make it spicy, tangy, or add herbs to suit your taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Chicken:

  • Boneless, skinless chicken tenders or chicken breasts sliced into strips

  • Olive oil or avocado oil spray

  • Salt and black pepper

  • Garlic powder

  • Paprika (optional, for color and mild heat)

  • Cornstarch or all-purpose flour (optional for extra crispiness)

For the Honey Butter Garlic Sauce:

  • Unsalted butter

  • Honey

  • Fresh garlic (minced or grated)

  • Soy sauce or tamari (optional for depth and umami)

  • Chili flakes or hot sauce (optional for a kick)

How to Make Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

  • Pat the chicken tenders dry with a paper towel.

  • Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.

  • If desired, lightly coat with cornstarch or flour for extra crispiness.

Step 2: Preheat the Air Fryer

  • Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3–5 minutes. This helps ensure even cooking.

Step 3: Air Fry the Chicken

  • Lightly spray the air fryer basket with oil.

  • Place the tenders in a single layer without overcrowding.

  • Air fry for 9–12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Step 4: Make the Honey Butter Garlic Sauce

  • While the chicken is cooking, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat.

  • Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds).

  • Stir in honey and a dash of soy sauce. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.

  • Optionally, stir in chili flakes or hot sauce for added heat.

Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders

Step 5: Toss & Coat

  • Once the chicken is done, transfer to a large bowl.

  • Pour the warm honey butter garlic sauce over the chicken and gently toss until fully coated.

Tips for Success

  • Do Not Overcrowd the Basket: Cook in batches if necessary to maintain air circulation.

  • Use Fresh Garlic: It makes a big difference in flavor compared to garlic powder in the sauce.

  • Double the Sauce: If serving over rice or noodles, double the sauce for extra flavor.

  • Control Sweetness: Adjust the amount of honey based on your preference.

  • Reheat in the Air Fryer: Keeps the tenders crispy compared to using the microwave.

Serving Suggestions

These tenders pair well with:

  • Steamed white or jasmine rice

  • Mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables

  • Fresh salad with vinaigrette

  • Coleslaw or cucumber salad

  • Dinner rolls or flatbreads

How to Store & Reheat

  • Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

  • Freezer: Freeze chicken tenders (without sauce) for up to 2 months. Reheat and toss with fresh sauce before serving.

  • Reheat: Best reheated in the air fryer at 350°F for 4–5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use frozen chicken tenders?

Yes, but they should be thawed completely and patted dry before seasoning and air frying.

Is it necessary to bread the chicken?

No. This recipe skips heavy breading, but a light dusting of cornstarch adds texture if desired.

Can I make it dairy free?

Yes. Use vegan butter or olive oil in place of regular butter.

What if I don’t have an air fryer?

You can bake the tenders at 425°F (220°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, and broil for a minute at the end.

Serving Suggestions

These chicken tenders pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. For a complete meal, consider serving them alongside our Mini Naan Bread, which can be used to make delicious wraps or as a base for mini pizzas. For a crispy and satisfying side, try our Crispy Potato Rings, which offer a delightful crunch that complements the tender chicken.recipes jessyrecipes jessy

Nutritional Information (Estimates per Serving)

  • Calories: 280

  • Protein: 22g

  • Carbohydrates: 16g

  • Fat: 14g

  • Sugar: 8g

  • Fiber: 0.5g

  • Sodium: 450mg

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Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders

Final Thoughts

Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders are a winning combination of ease, taste, and family friendly appeal. They’re ideal for weeknight dinners, weekend gatherings, or meal prep, and you can make them your own with countless flavor variations.

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