Nothing says “dinner’s ready” like the crispy, golden goodness of Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders! These tenders are not just any ordinary chicken—they’re perfectly succulent pieces of meat, coated in a delightful honey butter garlic sauce that makes each bite a flavor explosion. Imagine the aroma wafting through your kitchen, beckoning family and friends to gather around the table for a meal they won’t soon forget.
The best part? This heavenly dish is astoundingly easy to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings. And because it’s made in the air fryer, you can enjoy that desired crispiness without the guilt of excessive oil! If you love chicken recipes like our crispy Air Fryer Chicken Wings, then you’re in for a treat with these tenders. Grab your apron, and let’s dive into the delicious world of Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders!
What are Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders?
You might be asking yourself, “Why the long name?” Well, it’s simple, really! These tenders are all about celebrating the mouthwatering combination of honey, butter, and garlic, creating a dish that’s as comforting as it is exciting. It’s like calling your best friend’s favorite movie “The Epic Adventure of Love and Friendship!”—you just know it’s going to be good! As the classic saying goes, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and these chicken tenders are sure to win anyone over. So why not treat yourself (and your loved ones) by trying this indulgent recipe today?
Why You’ll Love Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders
There are countless reasons to fall head over heels for these Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders. First of all, they boast a tantalizing combination of flavors that makes every bite an unforgettable delight. The crispy exterior juxtaposed with the tender, juicy chicken, all coated in a luscious honey garlic sauce… it’s a match made in flavor heaven!
Not only are they divine, but they’re also budget-friendly! Making these tenders at home means you can save money while indulging in your favorite flavors. For the price of one takeout order, you can whip up a whole batch to share (or not!) with family and friends. Plus, seasoning them to your taste adds another level of freshness that’s hard to beat.
If you’ve enjoyed our other chicken recipes, like the Bachelor’s Chicken Stir-Fry, get ready to add these tenders to your list of must-tries! So, let’s get cookin’ and bring this savory dish to life!
How to Make Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders
Quick Overview
If you’re strapped for time but craving comfort food, this dish is your answer. Ready in approximately 25 minutes, the Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders are incredibly easy to prepare. Thanks to the air fryer, they cook to crispy perfection with minimal effort. All you need to do is gather your ingredients and follow a few simple steps to create this mouthwatering meal.
Key Ingredients for Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders
- 1 pound chicken tenderloins
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ¼ cup honey
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken: Begin by patting the chicken tenderloins with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This helps the breading adhere better.
- Set Up the Breading Station: In a shallow bowl, combine the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, beat the egg. In a third bowl, place the breadcrumbs.
- Coat the Chicken: Dredge each chicken tender in the flour mixture, dip it into the beaten egg, and then coat it generously with breadcrumbs. Make sure to press down gently so the crumbs adhere well.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Air Fry the Chicken: Place chicken tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Lightly spray them with cooking spray for an extra crispy finish. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway until they are golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C).
- Make the Honey Butter Garlic Sauce: While the tenders are cooking, melt butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Stir in honey and cook for 1-2 minutes until fully combined.
- Toss and Serve: Once the tenders are crispy, toss them in the honey butter garlic sauce until evenly coated. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce and enjoy!
What to Serve Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders With
These delectable chicken tenders pair wonderfully with a variety of dishes! Consider serving them alongside a fresh green salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette, some crispy fried potatoes, or even mac and cheese for a more indulgent experience. Pair it with a refreshing drink like sweet iced tea or lemonade, and you’ve got yourself a banquet that’s sure to satisfy everyone at the table!
Top Tips for Perfecting Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders
- Ingredient Variations: Feel free to spice up the breading mix by adding your favorite herbs or spices! A dash of cayenne can give it a delightful kick.
- Make-Ahead: These tenders can be prepped in advance. Bread the chicken and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.
- Cooking Time: Air fryer models vary, so be sure to keep an eye on the tenders as they cook to avoid overcooking.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Leftover chicken tenders can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat them in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until heated through and crispy again. For longer storage, you can freeze cooked tenders for up to two months. Just remember to thaw them in the fridge overnight before reheating!
With these savory, soul-satisfying Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders, you’ll find a new family favorite that’s both delicious and a breeze to make. Give this recipe a try, and prepare to be amazed at how something so simple can bring so much joy to your dinner table!
Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders
Ingredients
Method
- Begin by patting the chicken tenderloins with paper towels to remove any excess moisture.
- In a shallow bowl, combine the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- In another bowl, beat the egg.
- In a third bowl, place the breadcrumbs.
- Dredge each chicken tender in the flour mixture, dip it into the beaten egg, and then coat it generously with breadcrumbs.
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Place chicken tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Lightly spray them with cooking spray.
- Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway until they are golden brown and cooked through.
- Ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- While the tenders are cooking, melt butter in a small saucepan over low heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Stir in honey and cook for 1-2 minutes until fully combined.
- Once the tenders are crispy, toss them in the honey butter garlic sauce until evenly coated.
- Serve with your favorite dipping sauce and enjoy!
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