Crispy Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders Recipe

Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders

Let me tell you about a dish that has quickly become a favorite in my kitchen: Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders. If you’re looking for something that’s not only delicious but also incredibly easy to whip up, then you’re in for a treat! These tenders are the perfect combination of sweet, savory, and oh-so-satisfying. Imagine biting into tender, juicy chicken that’s been perfectly coated in a luscious honey butter garlic glaze. It’s comfort food at its best, but with the added benefit of being air-fried for that irresistible crispy texture without all the extra oil.

What makes this recipe special is its simplicity and the delightful blend of flavors. The honey brings a touch of sweetness, while the garlic adds a savory kick that balances everything beautifully. Plus, using an air fryer means you get that crispy exterior without the guilt of deep frying. Whether you’re serving them up for a family dinner, a game day snack, or just treating yourself to something special, these chicken tenders are sure to impress. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll find yourself making them again and again!

Ingredient Notes

When making Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders, it’s essential to have the right ingredients for the best flavor and texture. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Chicken Tenders: Fresh or frozen chicken tenders work well. If you’re using frozen ones, make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.
• Honey: This is the star of the dish, providing sweetness. You can substitute with maple syrup or agave syrup if you prefer.
• Butter: I recommend unsalted butter for better control over the saltiness, but salted butter can work too. For a dairy-free option, use coconut oil or a plant-based butter substitute.
• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic gives the best flavor. If you don’t have fresh garlic, garlic powder can be used in a pinch, but the taste will differ slightly.
• Seasonings: Basic salt and pepper are essential, but feel free to add paprika, garlic powder, or Italian seasoning for extra flavor.
• Flour: For coating the chicken, all-purpose flour is typical, but you can use almond flour for a gluten-free version.
• Egg: This helps the coating stick. If you want an egg-free option, you can use a mixture of water and cornstarch.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s get started on making these delectable Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders. Follow these steps for a delicious outcome:

1. Prepare the Chicken: If using frozen chicken tenders, ensure they are fully thawed. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps the coating stick.
2. Make the Honey Butter Garlic Mixture: In a small saucepan over low heat, melt 4 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add ¼ cup of honey and 3 cloves of minced garlic. Stir well and cook for about 2-3 minutes until fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Coat the Chicken: In a shallow dish, whisk together 1 cup of flour, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, beat 1 egg. Dip each chicken tender in the egg wash, allowing excess to drip off, then dredge in the flour mixture. Shake off any excess flour.
4. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This ensures the chicken cooks evenly and gets crispy.
5. Cook the Chicken: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place the coated chicken tenders in a single layer in the basket. It’s okay if they touch slightly, but do not overcrowd. Spray the tops lightly with cooking spray to enhance crispiness.
6. Air Fry: Cook the chicken tenders for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
7. Glaze the Chicken: Once the chicken is cooked, transfer it to a large bowl. Pour the honey butter garlic mixture over the chicken tenders and toss to coat them evenly.
8. Serve: Serve the tenders warm, garnished with chopped parsley if desired, alongside your favorite dipping sauce.

Tips & Suggestions

Here are some tips to ensure your Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders turn out perfectly:

• Don’t skip the drying step: Patting the chicken dry helps the coating stick better, resulting in a crispier finish.
• Adjust the sweetness: Feel free to adjust the amount of honey based on your sweetness preference. You can also add a touch of chili flakes to the honey garlic mixture for a spicy kick.
• Check for doneness: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken is fully cooked. It should read 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part.
• Experiment with flavors: Try adding a splash of lemon juice or soy sauce to the honey garlic mixture for added flavor depth.
• Batch cooking: If you’re making a larger batch, keep the cooked tenders warm in a low oven while you finish the rest. This keeps them crispy!

Storage

If you have any leftovers from your Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders, here’s how to store them:

• Refrigeration: Store the cooled chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked tenders. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: To reheat, use the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until heated through. This method will help retain crispiness.

Enjoy your delicious homemade Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders anytime you crave a tasty treat!

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a dish that perfectly balances sweet and savory flavors, then the Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders are an absolute must-try! Not only are they incredibly easy to prepare, but they also offer a delightful crunch without the guilt of traditional frying. The honey butter glaze adds a touch of sweetness that pairs beautifully with the garlicky goodness, making every bite a flavor-packed experience. Whether you’re serving them up for a family dinner, a game day snack, or just a cozy night at home, these chicken tenders are sure to impress. Trust me, once you try the Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders, you’ll find yourself craving them again and again. So go ahead, whip up a batch, and enjoy the deliciousness that awaits!