Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal that the whole family will love, you’ve come to the right place! These Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders are a delightful twist on a classic favorite. I absolutely adore this recipe because it combines crispy, juicy chicken with a sweet and savory glaze that’s simply irresistible. Plus, it all comes together in under 30 minutes—perfect for those busy weeknights or when you have unexpected guests.

Whether you’re making these tender bites for a cozy family dinner or serving them up at your next gathering, they are always a hit. The joy of cooking is all about sharing good food with loved ones, and this dish is no exception. You’ll want to keep this Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders recipe in your back pocket—it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep and 12 minutes of cooking time, you can have dinner ready in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves chicken tenders! This recipe is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
• Healthier Option: Thanks to the air fryer, you get that crispy texture with significantly less oil than traditional frying.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of honey, garlic, and butter creates a mouthwatering glaze that elevates the tenders to another level.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a main course or as an appetizer at parties—these tenders fit any occasion beautifully.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients for this delightful dish! You probably already have most of these items in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up your 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

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility. Feel free to get creative and adjust it to your taste preferences or dietary needs!

• Swap the protein: Try using chicken breast or thighs instead of tenders for a different texture.
• Add veggies: Toss in some sliced bell peppers or zucchini into the air fryer for added nutrition.
• Make it spicy: For an extra kick, increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or add some hot sauce to the glaze.
• Go gluten-free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free option without sacrificing flavor.

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 spices like garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. This step is crucial because it adds flavor directly to the chicken before cooking. If you’re feeling adventurous, sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes for a hint of heat!

Step 2: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3–5 minutes. This ensures that your chicken will cook evenly and achieve that golden-brown crunch we all love.

Step 3: Air Fry

Place the seasoned tenders in a single layer in the basket of your air fryer. Cook them for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through. This step is important because flipping helps them crisp up on both sides while ensuring they are cooked through.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

While the chicken cooks, melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant—this brings out its delicious flavor! Then stir in honey, soy sauce, and lemon juice. Let it simmer for 1–2 minutes before removing it from heat.

Step 5: Glaze the Tenders

Once your chicken is perfectly cooked and golden brown, toss those hot tenders in a bowl with your honey garlic butter sauce until they are fully coated. This step is where all that rich flavor comes together—trust me; you won’t want to skip it!

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if you’d like—a little pop of color never hurt anyone! Serve immediately, and don’t forget to spoon extra sauce over rice or veggies if you’re feeling generous (or just really hungry). Enjoy every crispy bite!

Pro Tips for Making Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders

Making these chicken tenders is a breeze, but a few pro tips can take your dish from good to great!

• Marinate for Extra Flavor: If you have time, let the seasoned chicken tenders sit for 30 minutes to an hour. This allows the spices to penetrate the meat, enhancing the flavor profile.

• Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure your chicken tenders are perfectly cooked, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.

• Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: For optimal crispiness, make sure to place the chicken in a single layer without overcrowding. This allows hot air to circulate around each piece for even cooking.

• Adjust Cooking Time Based on Size: If your chicken tenders are larger or thicker than average, they may need an extra minute or two in the air fryer. Keep an eye on them as they cook!

• Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to customize the seasoning blend according to your taste preferences. Adding herbs like thyme or rosemary can bring a fresh twist to this classic dish.

How to Serve Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders

These Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders are not only delicious but also versatile in how you present them. Here are some ideas to elevate your serving game!

Garnishes

• Chopped Green Onions: Sprinkle some fresh green onions over the tenders for a pop of color and mild flavor.
• Sesame Seeds: Toasted sesame seeds add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with honey garlic sauce.
• Lemon Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving brightens up the dish and enhances its flavors.

Side Dishes

• Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: These sweet and savory fries complement the honey garlic sauce perfectly while adding fiber and vitamins.
• Garlic Roasted Broccoli: Roasting broccoli with garlic brings out its natural sweetness and makes for a nutritious side that balances out the meal.
• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the savory chicken tenders.
• Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw with tangy dressing can provide a nice textural contrast and enhance the overall meal experience.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll be ready to impress family and friends with your delicious Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders! Enjoy every 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 whip up a batch ahead of time and have tasty, ready-to-eat meals throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Place cooled chicken tenders in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in the air fryer or microwave before serving.

Freezing

• Allow cooked tenders to cool completely.
• Lay them flat on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5–7 minutes.
• Alternatively, use the microwave, but be mindful that this may make them less crispy.

FAQs

Got questions? Here are some common ones about these tasty Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders!

Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders for this recipe?

Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into strips. Just ensure they are cooked through and adjust the cooking time if necessary.

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

These tenders pair wonderfully with rice, steamed vegetables, or even a fresh salad. You could also serve them with dipping sauces for extra flavor!

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

If you like a kick, increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the honey butter glaze before tossing the chicken.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders as much as I do! The combination of honey, garlic, and buttery goodness creates a dish that’s not only quick but also incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re serving them for dinner or as a snack at your next gathering, they’re sure to impress! Happy cooking!