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Raw chicken tenders being coated in honey butter garlic mixture and pressed into panko breadcrumbs before going into the air fryer basket

Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders

Crispy golden chicken tenders coated in a sweet and savory honey butter garlic sauce, air fried to perfection in about 25 minutes. A quick family-friendly weeknight dinner everyone will love.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Rest Time 3 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 portions
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb chicken tenders
  • 1/3 cup honey pure honey preferred
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter melted
  • 3 garlic cloves minced fresh
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs panko strongly preferred over regular for crispiest result
  • cooking spray for basket and tops of tenders

Equipment

  • Air fryer
  • Medium mixing bowl
  • Flat plate for breading
  • Meat thermometer

Method
 

  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the honey, melted butter, minced garlic, paprika, salt, and black pepper until smooth and fully combined.
  2. Add the chicken tenders to the bowl and toss until every piece is evenly coated. Let sit for 5 minutes if time allows for deeper flavor.
  3. Spread the panko breadcrumbs on a flat plate. Dredge each coated chicken tender through the breadcrumbs and press firmly to adhere on all sides. For extra crunch, dip back into the honey mixture and coat in breadcrumbs a second time.
  4. Preheat your air fryer to 380 degrees F. Spray the basket with cooking spray. Place the breaded tenders in a single layer without overlapping and without stacking.
  5. Lightly spray the tops of the tenders with cooking spray. Air fry for 10 to 12 minutes, flipping halfway through at the 5 to 6 minute mark, until deep golden brown and the internal temperature reads 165 degrees F.
  6. Remove from the air fryer and let rest for 2 to 3 minutes before serving. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.

Notes

Always use panko breadcrumbs for the crispiest coating. Cook tenders in a single layer only. Double bread for extra crunch. Always verify internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F. Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Freeze individually wrapped for up to 2 months. Reheat in air fryer at 350 degrees F for 5 to 7 minutes. Serve with ranch, honey mustard, or blue cheese dressing.