Name: Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken tenders; 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); ¼ cup unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; ¼ cup honey; 1 tbsp soy sauce; 1 tbsp lemon juice; Chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)

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Craving something crispy, juicy, and dripping with bold flavor? If you’re looking for a dish that’s quick to prepare but feels like a cozy hug on a plate, then you’ve come to the right place! These Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders are not just food; they’re a delightful experience. With their mouthwatering blend of sweet honey and savory garlic, they make every meal feel special, whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering. Plus, they’re ready in under 30 minutes—perfect for those nights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

This recipe is one of my favorites because it brings together familiar flavors in a fun and healthier way, thanks to the air fryer. You get all that crispy goodness with way less oil! Trust me, once you try these chicken tenders, they’ll earn a spot in your weekly meal rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the sweet and savory flavors.
Healthy Twist: Air frying means less oil without sacrificing that crispy texture.
Versatile Dish: Great as an appetizer, main course, or even meal prep for the week!
Irresistible Glaze: The honey garlic butter sauce takes these tenders to the next level!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s take a look at the simple, wholesome ingredients that make these Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders so delicious. You likely have most of these on hand already!

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 wonderfully flexible! Feel free to mix and match ingredients based on what you have or what you’re in the mood for.

Swap the protein: Try using chicken breasts or thighs instead of tenders for different textures.
Add some spice: Experiment with different spices like cayenne or chili powder to kick up the heat.
Make it gluten-free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free version.
Veggie option: Replace chicken with firm tofu or tempeh for a tasty plant-based alternative.

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 tasty seasonings—garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. This step is crucial as it infuses each tender with flavor before cooking. Make sure every piece is well coated!

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 helps achieve that perfect crispy exterior on your chicken tenders.

Step 3: Air Fry

Now it’s time to cook! Place your seasoned chicken tenders in a single layer in the basket of your air fryer. Cook them for about 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through. This allows them to cook evenly while getting beautifully golden brown on both sides.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

While your tenders are cooking, melt butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant—this step is key as it enhances the garlic’s flavor. Stir in honey, soy sauce, and lemon juice; simmer for just 1–2 minutes until everything is nicely combined.

Step 5: Glaze the Tenders

Once your chicken is done cooking, toss those hot tenders in a bowl with your sticky honey garlic butter sauce until they are fully coated. This glaze adds that irresistible shine and flavor that makes these tenders truly special.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve immediately! Don’t forget to spoon any extra sauce over rice or veggies for added deliciousness. Enjoy every bite of these delightful Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders!

Pro Tips for Making Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders

Making these chicken tenders is a breeze, but a few handy tips can help you achieve perfection every time!

Choose Quality Chicken: Using fresh, high-quality chicken tenders ensures that your dish will be juicy and flavorful. Look for tenders that are plump and have a nice color.
Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: For the crispiest results, arrange the chicken tenders in a single layer. Overcrowding can lead to steaming rather than frying, affecting the texture.
Adjust Cooking Time: Depending on the thickness of your chicken tenders, cooking times may vary. Always check for doneness by ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Experiment with Spices: Feel free to customize the spice blend! Adding herbs like thyme or oregano can give an extra layer of flavor that complements the honey garlic sauce beautifully.
Make Extra Sauce: If you love that sweet and savory glaze, consider doubling the sauce recipe. It’s perfect for drizzling over rice or veggies for a complete meal!

How to Serve Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders

These chicken tenders are not only delicious but also versatile when it comes to serving! Here are some fun ways to present this mouthwatering dish.

Garnishes

Chopped Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
Sesame Seeds: Toasted sesame seeds can add a lovely crunch and nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the honey garlic glaze.

Side Dishes

Steamed Broccoli: Simple yet nutritious, steamed broccoli provides a nice contrast in texture and balances out the sweetness of the chicken.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting side that complements the flavors perfectly.
Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: The sweetness of sweet potato fries harmonizes with the honey glaze while offering a delightful crunch.
Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and lemon dressing provides a light yet hearty option to round out your meal.

Now you’re all set to enjoy these delectable Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders with your favorite sides! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders are perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a batch ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week. Here’s how to store and reheat your delicious tenders for maximum enjoyment.

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container.
Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
If possible, separate the tenders from the sauce to keep them crispy.

Freezing

Allow the chicken tenders to cool completely before freezing.
Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, ensuring to remove as much air as possible.
They can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating

For the best texture, reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until heated through.
Alternatively, you can reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes.
If using a microwave, heat on medium power in short bursts to avoid sogginess.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions that might help you with your cooking adventure!

Can I use frozen chicken tenders for Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders?

Yes! Just ensure they are thawed before seasoning and cooking. Frozen tenders may require a few extra minutes in the air fryer.

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

These tenders pair wonderfully with rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. You can also serve them with extra honey garlic sauce on the side!

How do I make Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders spicier?

To add more heat, increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the honey garlic glaze before tossing it with the chicken.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited about these Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders as I am! They’re not only quick and easy but also packed with flavor that brings comfort food vibes right to your table. Enjoy making this recipe, and feel free to share your experience or any variations you try. Happy cooking!

Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders

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Author: Autumn
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 22 minutes
Yield: Serves 4
Category: Dinner
Method: Frying
Cuisine: American

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Description

If you’re in the mood for a dish that’s crispy, juicy, and bursting with flavor, these Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders are your answer. Perfectly seasoned and glazed with a luscious honey garlic sauce, these tenders come together in less than 30 minutes, making them an ideal choice for busy weeknights or family gatherings. The air fryer gives them that satisfying crunch while using minimal oil, ensuring you enjoy all the taste without the guilt. Whether served as an appetizer, main dish, or meal prep staple, these chicken tenders are sure to become a favorite in your household.

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken tenders
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)
¼ cup unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
¼ cup honey
1 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp lemon juice
Chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)

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Instructions

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
In a bowl, toss chicken tenders with olive oil and seasonings until fully coated.
Place chicken in a single layer in the air fryer basket and cook for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Meanwhile, melt butter in a saucepan over low heat; add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
Stir in honey, soy sauce, and lemon juice; simmer for 1–2 minutes.
Remove chicken from the air fryer and coat with the honey garlic sauce before serving.