Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders

If you’re looking for a delicious meal that comes together in no time, these Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders are just what you need. They are crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and smothered in a sticky honey garlic glaze that will leave your taste buds dancing. This recipe is a family favorite in my home; it never fails to impress at busy weeknights or laid-back family gatherings. Whether you’re serving them as a quick dinner, an appetizer for friends, or just indulging as a tasty snack, these tenders are sure to be a hit!

The best part? You’ll have this delightful dish ready in under 30 minutes! So grab your air fryer and let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe is ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for those busy evenings when time is tight.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves crispy chicken tenders! These are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
• Make Ahead: Prep the chicken and sauce ahead of time for an even quicker meal during the week.
• Flavor-Packed: The sweet and savory honey garlic glaze elevates simple chicken tenders to something truly special.
• Healthier Option: Using an air fryer means less oil without sacrificing that satisfying crunch.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t need anything fancy for this recipe! Just some simple, wholesome ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen. Let’s gather what we need for our 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

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

• Swap the protein: Try using chicken breasts or even turkey tenders instead of chicken tenders for a different flavor profile.
• Add some heat: If you love spice, toss in more crushed red pepper flakes or even some diced jalapeños to amp up the heat.
• Make it vegetarian: Substitute tofu or tempeh for the chicken to create a delicious plant-based version.
• Switch up the glaze: Experiment with different sauces by adding BBQ sauce or teriyaki sauce instead of honey for a unique twist.

How to Make Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Start by tossing your chicken tenders with olive oil and all those delicious seasonings—garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and optional crushed red pepper flakes. This step infuses every bite with flavor and helps achieve that lovely golden exterior while air frying!

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 achieves that perfect crispiness.

Step 3: Air Fry

Now it’s time to cook! Place the 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 them to brown beautifully on both sides while keeping them juicy inside.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

While your chicken is cooking, melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant—this brings out its rich flavor. Then stir in honey, soy sauce, and lemon juice. Let it simmer for 1–2 minutes before removing from heat; this creates a luscious glaze.

Step 5: Glaze the Tenders

Once your chicken is cooked through and golden brown, toss those hot tenders into a bowl with the honey garlic butter sauce until they’re fully coated. This step makes each bite irresistibly sticky and flavorful!

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if you like—this adds a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately and don’t forget to spoon any extra sauce over rice or veggies if desired; it’s too good not to enjoy every drop!

Now you’ve got yourself an amazing dish that brings together bold flavors with ease! Enjoy making these Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders often—they’re bound to become a favorite around your table too!

Pro Tips for Making Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders

Ready to take your chicken tenders to the next level? Here are some pro tips to ensure your Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders turn out perfectly every time!

• Marinate for Extra Flavor: Allow the chicken to sit in the spice mixture for at least 15 minutes (or even longer in the fridge) before cooking. This enhances the flavors and makes each bite even more delicious.

• Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: Cooking the tenders in a single layer allows hot air to circulate evenly, ensuring they get that perfect crispy texture. If needed, cook in batches for best results.

• Adjust Cooking Time Based on Size: Keep an eye on cooking times, as larger or thicker tenders may require additional time. Always check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and high-quality honey make a world of difference in flavor. They enhance the richness of the sauce and elevate your dish to new heights.

• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to mix up the spices! Adding a pinch of cayenne or using smoked garlic powder can provide unique twists on flavor that might become new favorites.

How to Serve Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders

These chicken tenders are not only delightful on their own but also versatile when it comes to serving options! Here are some ideas to present them beautifully.

Garnishes

• Chopped Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up your plate.
• Lemon Wedges: A squeeze of lemon just before eating enhances all the flavors and adds a zesty kick.
• Sesame Seeds: Sprinkling toasted sesame seeds on top gives a delightful crunch and nutty flavor contrast.

Side Dishes

• Steamed Broccoli: This nutrient-packed veggie balances out the meal while adding vibrant color and crunch.
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic complement the rich sauce, making for a comforting side.
• Coconut Rice: The subtle sweetness of coconut rice pairs wonderfully with the honey butter glaze, creating an exotic twist.
• Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw brings a refreshing crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender bites, making it an excellent choice for texture variety.

Now you’re all set to enjoy these mouthwatering Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders! Have fun experimenting with different sides and garnishes to find your favorite combinations. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders are perfect for meal prep! They can easily be made ahead of time and stored, ensuring you have a delicious, quick meal ready whenever you need it.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Let the cooked chicken tenders cool completely before freezing.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. For best quality, label with the date.

Reheating

• Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the frozen or refrigerated chicken tenders in the basket in a single layer.
• Air fry for about 5-8 minutes or until heated through and crispy.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders.

Can I use frozen chicken tenders for this recipe?

You can use frozen chicken tenders, but it’s best to thaw them first for even cooking. Follow the same seasoning and cooking instructions after thawing.

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

To make these chicken tenders healthier, try using less butter in the glaze or substituting with a light olive oil spray. You can also serve them with a side of fresh veggies instead of heavier sides.

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

These chicken tenders pair beautifully with rice, salad, or steamed vegetables. You could also serve them as an appetizer with your favorite dipping sauce!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders as much as I do! They’re not only simple to prepare but also burst with flavor that is sure to please everyone at your table. Whether you’re whipping them up for dinner or serving them at a gathering, they’re bound to become a family favorite. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your delicious results!