Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious dinner that the whole family will love, then let me introduce you to my favorite recipe: Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders! These little bites of joy are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and generously coated in a sweet and savory honey garlic sauce. It’s hard to believe they can be made in under 30 minutes!

What makes this dish so special is not just its incredible flavor, but also how versatile it is. Whether you need a speedy weeknight meal or an impressive appetizer for your next gathering, these chicken tenders fit the bill perfectly. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll want to keep this recipe close!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you’ll have dinner ready in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore these tenders; they’re perfect for picky eaters.
• Healthier Option: Using the air fryer means less oil while still achieving that crispy texture we love.
• Make Ahead: You can marinate the chicken ahead of time for even quicker cooking during busy nights.
• Flavorful Glaze: The honey garlic sauce adds a sticky sweetness that makes each bite irresistible.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients! You’ll find everything you need right in your pantry or local grocery store. Here’s what you’ll need to make those scrumptious Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders:

For the Chicken Tenders

• 1 lb chicken tenders (boneless, skinless)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

For the Honey Garlic Sauce

• ¼ cup unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• ¼ cup honey
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• Chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)

Variations

This recipe is so flexible! Feel free to customize it based on what you have or your taste preferences. Here are some fun variations to try:

• Swap the protein: Use chicken breast or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
• Add some crunch: Coat the tenders with panko breadcrumbs before air frying for an extra crispy texture.
• Change up the flavors: Switch honey with maple syrup for a unique twist.
• Spice it up: Add more crushed red pepper flakes or your favorite hot sauce for an extra kick!

How to Make Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Start by tossing your chicken tenders in a bowl with olive oil and all those delicious spices—garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and if you’re feeling adventurous, red pepper flakes. This step is important because it infuses flavor into every single bite!

Step 2: Preheat the Air Fryer

Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and let it preheat for about 3–5 minutes. Preheating is key here; it ensures that your chicken gets that perfect golden exterior while cooking quickly.

Step 3: Air Fry

Carefully place your seasoned tenders in a single layer in the basket of your air fryer. Cook them for about 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through. This helps them cook evenly and achieve that crispiness we all crave!

Step 4: Make the Sauce

While your chicken is cooking, melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant—this brings out an amazing aroma! Then stir in honey, soy sauce, and lemon juice. Let it simmer for about 1–2 minutes before removing from heat.

Step 5: Glaze the Tenders

Once your chicken is golden brown and cooked through, toss those hot tenders in a bowl with your homemade honey garlic butter sauce. Make sure each piece is fully coated—this glaze adds such delightful flavor!

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve immediately. If there’s any extra sauce left over (which I highly recommend saving!), drizzle it over rice or veggies for an added treat.

And there you have it—your new go-to recipe for Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Pro Tips for Making Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders

Getting the perfect chicken tenders is all about the details, and I’m here to share some tips that will elevate your dish even further!

• Choose fresh chicken tenders: Fresh tenders will give you the juiciest results. If possible, avoid frozen ones as they may lose moisture during cooking.
• Don’t overcrowd the air fryer: For crispy tenders, make sure there’s enough space between each piece in the basket. This allows hot air to circulate properly and cook them evenly.
• Adjust seasoning to taste: Feel free to tweak the spices according to your preference! Adding more garlic powder or a pinch of cayenne can really amp up the flavor profile.
• Let them rest before glazing: Allowing the cooked chicken tenders to sit for a minute before tossing them in sauce helps retain their juiciness and ensures the glaze adheres better.
• Serve immediately for best texture: These tenders are at their crispiest right after cooking. If you can, serve them fresh out of the air fryer!

How to Serve Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders

These chicken tenders are as versatile as they are delicious! Here are some fun ideas on how to present this delightful dish.

Garnishes

• Chopped parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also brings a fresh, herbal note that complements the rich flavors.
• Sesame seeds: Toasted sesame seeds add a delightful crunch and a hint of nuttiness, making your dish look even more appetizing.

Side Dishes

• Steamed broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds a nutritious element and its vibrant green color contrasts beautifully with the golden chicken.
• Garlic mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with garlic will soak up any extra honey garlic sauce and provide a comforting side that everyone loves.
• Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw can add crunch and balance out the richness of the chicken tenders. The tangy dressing complements the sweet glaze perfectly!
• Quinoa salad: A light quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and lemon vinaigrette makes for a healthy pairing that’s both filling and refreshing.

Now you’re all set to impress your family or guests with these tasty Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders! Enjoy every crispy bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders are perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a batch ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week. Here’s how to store them properly.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chicken tenders to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Let the cooked chicken tenders cool down entirely.
• Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible.
• Frozen tenders can last for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until heated through.
• You can also use an oven set to 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.
• If using a microwave, heat in short intervals, checking frequently to avoid sogginess.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delicious recipe!

Can I use other types of chicken instead of tenders?

Absolutely! You can use chicken breasts or thighs cut into strips. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, ensuring they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

How do I make Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, simply substitute regular soy sauce with tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative. Enjoy your flavorful dish without worry!

What can I serve with Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders?

These tenders pair wonderfully with steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad. You can also serve them with dipping sauces like ranch or barbecue.

Can I prepare the honey garlic sauce in advance?

Yes! You can prepare the honey garlic sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it briefly before tossing it with your cooked chicken tenders.

Are Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders kid-friendly?

Definitely! The sweet and savory flavors are usually a hit with kids. Plus, they’re healthier than traditional fried options!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders as much as I do! They are not only easy and quick to prepare but also packed with delightful flavors that will please everyone at your table. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a fun gathering with friends, this recipe is sure to impress. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your delicious creations!