Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders

If you’re looking for a dish that’s both comforting and quick to whip up, then you’ve landed in the right spot! These Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders are an absolute delight. Imagine juicy chicken tenders coated in a sweet and savory honey garlic glaze, all made with less oil thanks to the magic of the air fryer. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a fun gathering with friends, this recipe is sure to impress everyone at the table!

What truly makes these chicken tenders special is their versatility. They can be served as a main dish, an appetizer for parties, or even as a tasty snack. Plus, they’re ready in just about 30 minutes, making them perfect for those days when time is tight but flavor is still a must!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep and 12 minutes of cooking, you’ll have dinner on the table in no time!
• Family-Friendly: These chicken tenders are a hit with kids and adults alike. Who doesn’t love crispy chicken with a delicious glaze?
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week. They reheat beautifully in the air fryer!
• Bold Flavors: The combination of honey, garlic, and butter creates an irresistible sauce that elevates your meal.
• Healthier Option: Using an air fryer means less oil without sacrificing that crispy texture we all crave.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting started on these Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders is super simple! You only need a handful of wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your kitchen. Let’s gather everything we need for this delightful recipe!

For the Chicken

• 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

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! 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 vegetarian option!
• Add some zest: Incorporate lime juice instead of lemon for a different citrus flavor.
• Make it spicy: Increase the crushed red pepper flakes or add some hot sauce to the glaze for an extra kick.
• Experiment with herbs: Toss in some fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary into the marinade for added aroma.

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 beautiful spices: garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. This step not only flavors the chicken but also helps it achieve that crispy finish when air-fried.

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 gets that perfect golden exterior while cooking through evenly inside.

Step 3: Air Fry

Place your seasoned tenders in a single layer in the basket of your air fryer. Cook them for about 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through. This allows each side to get beautifully golden brown while keeping them juicy inside.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

While your tenders are cooking, melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté it just until fragrant—about 30 seconds. Be careful not to burn it! Then stir in honey, soy sauce, and lemon juice. Let it simmer for just 1–2 minutes before removing from heat; this will create that luscious glaze.

Step 5: Glaze the Tenders

Once your chicken is done cooking, transfer them to a bowl and pour over that amazing honey garlic butter sauce you just made. Toss gently until every piece is beautifully coated.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve immediately! These tenders are fantastic on their own but even better when drizzled over rice or veggies with some extra sauce on top.

Enjoy every bite of these deliciously sticky Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders!

Pro Tips for Making Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders

Want to take your cooking game to the next level? These tips will ensure your chicken tenders come out perfectly every time!

• Marinate for Extra Flavor: Letting the chicken sit in the seasoning mixture for at least 15 minutes (or even overnight) allows the flavors to penetrate deeply, giving you a more flavorful bite.

• Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: Cooking in batches ensures that each tender gets enough hot air circulation, leading to a crispier exterior. If they’re too close together, they may steam instead of fry.

• Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This guarantees it’s fully cooked and safe to eat.

• Adjust the Spice Level: Feel free to add more or fewer crushed red pepper flakes depending on your heat preference. This allows you to customize the dish for you and your family.

• Make Extra Sauce: If you love that sticky sweetness, consider doubling the sauce recipe. It’s perfect for drizzling over rice or vegetables and enhances every bite!

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 them up. Here are some ideas to elevate your presentation!

Garnishes

• Chopped Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the rich flavors of the glaze.
• Sesame Seeds: Toasted sesame seeds lend a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the honey garlic sauce.
• Lemon Zest: A dash of lemon zest brightens up the dish, adding a burst of citrus aroma that balances out the sweetness.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting side that pairs wonderfully with crispy chicken.
• Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal veggies like carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini roasted until tender brings a healthy balance and vibrant colors to your plate.
• Coleslaw: A crunchy, tangy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the chicken tenders and adds textural variety.
• Steamed Rice or Quinoa: Fluffy rice or nutty quinoa acts as a perfect base for soaking up any extra honey garlic sauce, making every bite indulgent.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’re ready to impress your family or guests with a delightful meal that’s both satisfying and full of flavor! Enjoy every crispy bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders are perfect for meal prep, making them an ideal choice for busy weeknights or gatherings. You can easily prepare a large batch and enjoy them throughout the week!

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• To freeze, let the cooked 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

• For best results, reheat the tenders in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes until heated through.
• Alternatively, you can reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10–15 minutes.
• Avoid using a microwave as it may make them soggy.

FAQs

Wondering more about these delicious Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders? Here are some common questions:

Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?

Yes! You can cut chicken breasts into strips to make your own chicken tenders. Just adjust the cooking time as necessary since they may take a little longer to cook through.

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

To add extra heat, increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or serve with your favorite hot sauce on the side.

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

These tenders pair wonderfully with rice, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. You can also serve them as an appetizer with dipping sauces!

Can I make these chicken tenders gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply replace regular soy sauce with gluten-free soy sauce or tamari. The rest of the recipe remains unchanged.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders! They truly bring together comforting flavors that everyone loves. Whether you’re whipping them up for dinner or serving them at your next gathering, I know they’ll be a hit. Enjoy every delicious bite and feel free to share your experience or variations you try out! Happy cooking!