Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal that will have your family begging for seconds, you’ve come to the right place! These Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders are not just any chicken tenders; they’re a delightful mix of sweet and savory flavors that can brighten up even the busiest weeknight. The best part? They come together in under 30 minutes, making them perfect for those nights when time is tight but you still want something special.

This recipe holds a special place in my heart because it combines the classic comfort of chicken tenders with the rich, buttery goodness of honey garlic sauce. It’s an easy dish that works beautifully for family gatherings or as a tasty appetizer at your next get-together. Trust me, once you try these tenders, they’ll become a go-to meal that everyone loves!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 22 minutes, these chicken tenders are perfect for busy evenings.
• Family-Friendly: Kid-approved and full of flavor, they’ll satisfy even the pickiest eaters.
• Healthier Option: Made in the air fryer, you get all the crispy goodness with less oil.
• Versatile Dish: Great as a main course, snack, or appetizer—these tenders do it all!
• Mouthwatering Flavor: The sticky honey garlic glaze elevates each bite to pure deliciousness.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is half the fun! This recipe uses simple, wholesome items that you might already have on hand. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need to create these delectable 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

The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily make changes to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Here are some fun variations to try:

• Swap the protein: Use boneless chicken breasts, thighs, or even tofu for a plant-based option.
• Change up the spices: Experiment with different seasonings like Italian herbs or Cajun spice for a unique twist.
• Add some crunch: Coat your tenders in breadcrumbs before air frying for an extra crispy texture.
• Go spicy: Toss in more crushed red pepper flakes or add hot sauce to the honey garlic glaze if you’re craving heat.

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 flavorful seasonings. This step is crucial because it helps ensure that every bite is packed with flavor. The combination of garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper creates a savory base that complements the honey garlic sauce perfectly.

Step 2: Preheat the Air Fryer

Next up, set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and let it preheat for about 3–5 minutes. Preheating is essential as it allows your chicken tenders to cook evenly and get that wonderful crispy exterior we all love.

Step 3: Air Fry

Once preheated, place your seasoned chicken tenders in a single layer in the basket. Air fry them for about 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through. This method ensures they cook through completely while achieving that golden brown color on both sides.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

While your chicken is cooking away, melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant—about 30 seconds. Then stir in honey, soy sauce, and lemon juice before letting it simmer for another minute or two. This creates that deliciously sticky glaze that will make your tenders shine!

Step 5: Glaze the Tenders

Once your chicken is cooked to perfection, toss them in a bowl with that amazing honey garlic butter sauce until they’re fully coated. This step adds layers of flavor and keeps your chicken moist and succulent.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Finally, garnish your beautifully glazed chicken tenders with fresh parsley if desired and serve immediately. Don’t forget to spoon extra sauce over rice or veggies—it’s too good to waste! Enjoy every bite of these scrumptious Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders with family and friends!

Pro Tips for Making Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders

Get ready to elevate your cooking game with these handy tips that will ensure your chicken tenders are nothing short of perfection!

• Use fresh garlic: Freshly minced garlic packs more flavor than powdered, giving your sauce an aromatic boost. It enhances the overall taste and aroma of the dish.

• Don’t overcrowd the basket: Air fryers work best when air can circulate freely around the food. Cooking in batches ensures even cooking and a crispy texture on all sides.

• Rest your chicken: Letting the chicken tenders rest for a few minutes after air frying allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicier bite. This small step makes a big difference in texture.

• Adjust the spice level: Feel free to tweak the amount of crushed red pepper flakes based on your heat preference. This customizes the dish to suit your taste buds, making it perfect for everyone at your table.

• Make extra sauce: If you love that sticky honey garlic glaze (who doesn’t?), consider doubling the sauce recipe! Extra sauce is fantastic over rice or veggies, ensuring no delicious flavors go to waste.

How to Serve Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders

Serving these delicious chicken tenders can be as fun as making them! Here are some ideas to present this dish beautifully and make mealtime even more enjoyable.

Garnishes

• Chopped parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also provides a refreshing touch that balances out the rich flavors.
• Sesame seeds: Toasted sesame seeds add an appealing crunch and nutty flavor that complements the sweetness of the honey.

Side Dishes

• Steamed broccoli: Crisp-tender broccoli adds a nutritious element to your meal while its vibrant green color brightens up your plate.
• Garlic mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic create a comforting side that pairs beautifully with the sweet and savory chicken.
• Quinoa salad: A light quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and lemon vinaigrette brings freshness and texture to the meal, making it satisfying yet healthy.
• Mixed greens salad: A simple mixed greens salad drizzled with olive oil and vinegar offers a crunchy, refreshing contrast to the richness of the chicken tenders.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’re all set for an unforgettable dining experience featuring Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders. Enjoy every flavorful bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders are not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can make a batch ahead of time to enjoy throughout the week. Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat your tasty tenders:

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.
• To keep them crispy, you can place a paper towel at the bottom of the container.

Freezing

• Allow the chicken tenders to cool completely before freezing.
• Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer the frozen tenders to a freezer-safe bag or container; they can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until heated through.
• Alternatively, you can use a microwave, but this may result in less crispiness.
• If reheating from frozen, add a few extra minutes to ensure they are heated all the way through.

FAQs

You might have some questions about making these delightful chicken tenders. Let’s clear up any confusion!

Can I use other cuts of chicken for Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders?

Absolutely! While chicken tenders are ideal for this recipe, you can also use boneless chicken breasts cut into strips. Just adjust the cooking time as necessary until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

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

If you’re looking for more heat, try increasing the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or adding a dash of hot sauce to the honey garlic butter glaze. You could also serve with a spicy dipping sauce!

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

Yes! Substitute regular soy sauce with a gluten-free version or tamari. Ensure that any additional ingredients you use are also gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited about these Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders as I am! This recipe is truly special because it combines convenience and incredible flavor—all while being healthier than traditional frying methods. Enjoy making this dish for your family or friends; it’s perfect for any occasion. Don’t forget to share your experience and savor every bite—happy cooking!