These chicken tenders are a golden, crispy dream with a sticky-sweet glaze that hits all the right notes. The air fryer gives them that satisfying crunch without the mess of deep frying, while the honey butter garlic sauce adds a rich, savory-sweet finish that clings to every bite. Whether you’re serving them as a weeknight dinner, a party appetizer, or a meal-prep favorite, these tenders are guaranteed to disappear fast. They’re kid-friendly, adult-approved, and endlessly versatile—serve them with a side of coleslaw, over a salad, or tucked into a sandwich for a gourmet twist.
Ingredients:
For the Chicken Tenders:
- 1 lb (450g) chicken tenders or boneless chicken breast strips
- 1 cup (100g) breadcrumbs (panko for extra crunch)
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- Cooking spray
For the Honey Butter Garlic Glaze:
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 3 tbsp honey
- 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
- ½ tsp paprika (optional, for warmth)
- ¼ tsp chili flakes (optional, for heat)
Instructions:
1. Prep the Chicken:
Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels—this helps the coating stick better. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
2. Make the Glaze:
In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, honey, minced garlic, paprika, and chili flakes if using. This mixture will serve as both a marinade and a finishing glaze.
3. Coat the Chicken:
Dip each chicken tender into the honey butter mixture, letting the excess drip off. Then roll it in the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure a full, even coating. For extra crunch, you can double-dip: glaze → breadcrumbs → glaze → breadcrumbs.
4. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and let it preheat for 3–5 minutes. Lightly spray the basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
5. Air Fry the Tenders:
Arrange the coated tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Don’t overcrowd—work in batches if needed. Spray the tops lightly with cooking spray to help them crisp up.
Air fry for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp should reach 165°F/74°C). The coating should be crisp and golden.
6. Glaze and Serve:
While the tenders are still hot, brush them with any remaining honey butter garlic glaze or drizzle it over the top. This final touch adds a glossy, flavorful finish that soaks into the crispy coating.
7. Optional Garnishes:
Sprinkle with chopped parsley, sesame seeds, or a pinch of flaky sea salt for extra flair. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce—ranch, honey mustard, or spicy mayo all work beautifully.
Serving Suggestions:
- For a meal: Pair with roasted sweet potatoes and a crisp green salad.
- For a snack: Serve with toothpicks and a trio of dipping sauces.
- For a sandwich: Tuck into a brioche bun with slaw and pickles.
These tenders are a perfect canvas for your culinary creativity, My. You could even infuse the glaze with a splash of soy sauce for an umami twist or add a touch of lemon zest for brightness. Want to turn this into a tropical fusion dish next? I’ve got ideas that’ll make your air fryer your new best friend. 🍯🧄🔥