Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders

If you’re looking for a dish that’s simple, delicious, and sure to please everyone at the table, then these Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders are for you! I can’t tell you how many times I’ve turned to this recipe during busy weeknights or when friends drop by unexpectedly. The combination of sweet honey, rich butter, and savory garlic creates a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist. Plus, with the air fryer, you get all that crispy goodness without the guilt of deep frying.

This recipe is not only quick to whip up but also versatile enough for any occasion—whether it’s a family dinner or a fun game day snack. The sticky glaze makes it perfect for dipping or drizzling over steamed veggies or rice. Trust me; once you try this dish, it will earn a permanent spot in your cooking rotation!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the sweet and savory flavors!
• Crispy without the Oil: Thanks to the air fryer, enjoy that crispy texture with less grease.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch ahead of time for easy lunches or dinners.
• Versatile Serving Options: Great as an appetizer, main dish, or even in wraps!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering ingredients should be simple and stress-free! For these Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders, you’ll need some wholesome staples that come together beautifully. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need:

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

For Garnish

• Chopped parsley (optional)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to mix things up based on your taste preferences or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Try using chicken breasts or even tofu for a plant-based option!
• Add some crunch: Toss in some chopped nuts like almonds or cashews for added texture.
• Make it spicy: Increase the crushed red pepper flakes or add your favorite hot sauce to the glaze.
• Try different sauces: Experiment with barbecue sauce or teriyaki sauce instead of honey garlic for a different flavor profile.

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 seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. This step is crucial because it builds flavor right into the chicken before cooking.

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 ensures that your chicken cooks evenly and gets nice and crispy on the outside.

Step 3: Air Fry

Carefully place the 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 will help achieve an even golden color while keeping them juicy inside.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt your butter. Once melted, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then stir in honey, soy sauce, and lemon juice. Let this simmer for 1–2 minutes before removing from heat—this is where all those delicious flavors meld together!

Step 5: Glaze the Tenders

Once your chicken tenders are cooked through and golden brown, toss them in a bowl with that luscious honey garlic butter sauce until fully coated. This step is essential because every bite should be bursting with flavor.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Garnish with fresh parsley if you’d like! Serve your chicken tenders immediately while they’re hot and crispy. Don’t forget to spoon extra sauce over rice or veggies for an even more delightful meal!

Pro Tips for Making Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders

Cooking can be a fun adventure, and these tips will help you master the art of making perfect chicken tenders every time!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and quality honey enhance the flavor significantly, bringing out the best in your dish. The freshness adds a vibrant taste that pre-packaged ingredients often lack.

• Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: Air circulation is key to achieving that crispy texture. If you pack too many tenders into the basket, they may steam instead of fry, resulting in less crispy goodness.

• Check for Doneness: Not all air fryers cook at the same rate, so it’s best to check the internal temperature of your chicken tenders with a meat thermometer. They should reach 165°F (75°C) to be fully cooked.

• Customize Your Spice Level: Adjust the crushed red pepper flakes according to your heat preference. If you enjoy a bit of kick, feel free to add more or omit them altogether for a milder taste.

• Store Leftovers Properly: If you have any leftovers (which is rare!), let them cool before storing in an airtight container. They can last up to 3 days in the fridge—just reheat in the air fryer to restore their crispiness!

How to Serve Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders

These chicken tenders are not only delicious on their own but also versatile when it comes to serving! Here are some ideas to make your meal even more special.

Garnishes

• Chopped Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the rich flavors beautifully.
• Sesame Seeds: Toasted sesame seeds provide a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with honey garlic dishes.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting side that balances the sweetness of the tenders.
• Steamed Broccoli: This nutritious green side adds color and a fresh crunch, and its slight bitterness contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the glaze.
• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and lemon dressing offers a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the chicken.
• Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw made with cabbage and carrots tossed in a tangy dressing provides a nice crunch and acidity that cuts through the buttery sauce.

Feel free to mix and match these garnishes and sides to create your perfect meal experience! Enjoy every delicious bite of your Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders are perfect for meal prep! You can make a big batch ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy delicious, flavorful chicken whenever you need a quick meal or snack.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chicken tenders to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Let the cooked chicken tenders cool completely.
• Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container, and store for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the frozen or refrigerated tenders in the basket.
• Air fry for 5-7 minutes until heated through and crispy.

FAQs

Got questions about these delicious tenders? Here are some common queries!

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

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

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

To add more heat, increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes in the marinade. You could also serve with a spicy dipping sauce on the side for an extra kick!

Can I prepare Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders without using honey?

Yes! If you’re looking for a substitute, consider using maple syrup or agave nectar for a similar sweetness without using honey.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders as much as I do! Their crispy texture and rich flavor make them a delightful addition to any meal. Whether served as a quick dinner or an appetizer at your next gathering, they’re sure to impress. Enjoy creating this recipe and savoring every delicious bite. Happy cooking!