Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders

If you’re looking to elevate your dinner game with something truly irresistible, let me introduce you to the magic of 1 lb chicken tenders cooked in an air fryer with honey butter garlic glaze. This dish is the perfect harmony of tender, juicy chicken with a golden, crispy coating, all enveloped in a sweet and savory sauce that’s bursting with flavor. Whether you’re feeding the family or craving a cozy solo meal, these chicken tenders will quickly become your new favorite comfort food.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple, straightforward ingredients come together to create a dish that feels special without being complicated. Each one plays a key role — the honey brings a lovely sweetness, garlic adds layers of aroma and depth, and paprika spices things up with just a touch of warmth.

• 1 lb chicken tenders: The star of the show, tender and quick-cooking for perfect results every time.
• ¼ cup honey: Adds a natural sweetness that caramelizes beautifully in the air fryer.
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted: Brings richness and helps keep the chicken moist.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with bold, savory flavor.
• 1 tsp paprika: Gives a subtle smoky warmth and a gorgeous color.
• 1 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors so nothing falls flat.
• ½ tsp black pepper: Offers the perfect gentle heat to balance the honey.
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular): Creates a crisp, crunchy coating that’s utterly satisfying.
• Cooking spray: To keep the chicken from sticking and ensure a crisp finish.

How to Make Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders

Step 1: Prepare the Honey Butter Garlic Mixture

Start by whisking together the honey, melted butter, minced garlic, paprika, salt, and black pepper in a mixing bowl. This mixture will coat the chicken tenders with a rich, flavorful glaze. Be sure to set aside half of this mixture — it’s pure gold for drizzling at the end.

Step 2: Coat the Chicken Tenders

Dip each of the 1 lb chicken tenders into the honey garlic mixture, making sure they’re fully coated. Then gently roll them in breadcrumbs, pressing lightly so the crunchy coating sticks just right. This step ensures every bite has that wonderful crispiness paired with the sticky sweet glaze.

Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer

Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and give the basket a light spray with cooking spray. This simple action keeps the tenders from sticking and helps them get that stunning golden finish we all love.

Step 4: Arrange and Cook

Lay the coated chicken tenders in a single layer inside the basket, so each tender crisps up evenly. Air fry for 10 to 12 minutes, flipping them halfway through to guarantee beautiful, even browning. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature; they should reach 165°F (74°C) for safe, juicy results.

Step 5: Add Extra Flavor & Serve

Once cooked to perfection, drizzle the reserved honey garlic mixture over the chicken tenders. This final touch amps up the flavor, making every bite irresistibly luscious and sticky. Serve right away for the best taste and texture experience.

How to Serve Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like chopped parsley, cilantro, or chives add a pop of green and freshness that contrasts wonderfully with the glaze. A few lemon wedges on the side also brighten the dish and offer a zesty complement to the sweet and savory tenders.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs beautifully with crisp salads, roasted vegetables, or creamy mashed potatoes. If you’re craving some carbs, fluffy rice or buttery dinner rolls make fantastic companions that soak up every last bit of that honey butter garlic sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the chicken tenders on sticks with dipping sauces like ranch, spicy mayo, or extra honey garlic glaze. You can also pile them atop a fresh salad or wrap them in warm tortillas with slaw for a finger-friendly meal that feels new and exciting.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover 1 lb chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They stay delicious for up to 3 days, giving you ready-made meals that keep the same tasty flavors.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, freeze the cooked tenders by placing them evenly on a baking sheet first. Once frozen solid, transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen tenders keep well for up to 2 months and thaw quickly when you’re ready.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the air fryer at 350°F for 3 to 5 minutes to bring back that crispiness without drying out the chicken. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the crunch intact, but it works in a pinch.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken tenders for this recipe?

Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely before coating and air frying. Cooking from frozen will affect the texture and cooking time.

What if I don’t have an air fryer?

You can bake these chicken tenders in the oven at 425°F for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through until they’re golden and cooked through.

Can I substitute butter with something else?

Absolutely! Melted coconut oil or olive oil can work as alternatives, but butter gives the best flavor and richness here.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, simply swap the breadcrumbs for gluten-free panko or crushed gluten-free crackers.

How spicy is this dish?

It’s mildly spicy due to the paprika, but you can adjust the heat by adding cayenne pepper if you like it with a kick or omit it entirely for a milder version.

Final Thoughts

This recipe for 1 lb chicken tenders is a true gem, combining flavors and textures that feel both comforting and exciting. Air frying makes the process effortless, and the honey butter garlic glaze adds a delightful twist that keeps everyone coming back for more. Trust me, once you try this dish, it’s going to become a regular crowd-pleaser in your kitchen. Enjoy every crispy, sticky bite!

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