Description
Crispy and flavorful Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders that are easy to make and perfect for a quick, delicious meal. These tenders are coated in a crunchy panko breadcrumb crust and glazed with a sweet and savory honey butter garlic sauce, making them irresistibly tasty with a perfect balance of textures and flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Coating
- 1.5 lb chicken tenders (choose fresh, organic if possible)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (or whole wheat flour as substitute)
- 2 large eggs (beaten)
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (or regular breadcrumbs)
- 1 tsp salt (to enhance flavors)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper (adjust to taste)
Honey Butter Garlic Glaze
- 1/4 cup honey (provides sweetness)
- 1/2 cup butter (melted)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken: Start by patting the chicken tenders dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture, which helps the coating stick better.
- Make the honey butter garlic glaze: In a medium bowl, whisk together the melted butter, honey, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until fully combined and smooth.
- Set up dredging stations: Arrange three shallow dishes—one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs—for an efficient coating process.
- Coat the chicken: Dredge each chicken tender first in the flour, tapping off excess, then dip into the eggs, and finally coat thoroughly with the panko breadcrumbs for a crispy crust.
- Preheat the air fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) to ensure the tenders cook evenly and become crispy.
- Air fry the tenders: Place the coated chicken tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket to allow hot air circulation. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through to brown both sides evenly.
- Glaze the chicken: Once cooked, while the tenders are still warm, drizzle the remaining honey butter garlic glaze over them to add extra flavor and moisture.
- Serve: Plate the chicken tenders and serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce or enjoy them as is for a perfect snack or meal.
Notes
- For a healthier option, substitute whole wheat flour and whole grain panko.
- Adjust garlic amount based on preference for more or less pungency.
- Ensure tenders are spaced out in the air fryer basket for even cooking and crispiness.
- Use fresh garlic for the best flavor in the glaze.
- Reheat leftovers in the air fryer to keep tenders crispy.
