Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
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1 lb (450 g) chicken tenders or boneless chicken breasts (cut into strips)
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½ cup all-purpose flour
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2 large eggs, beaten
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1 cup panko breadcrumbs (or regular breadcrumbs)
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½ teaspoon salt
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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½ teaspoon garlic powder
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½ teaspoon paprika (optional)
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Olive oil spray or cooking spray
For the Honey Butter Garlic Sauce:
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3 tablespoons butter
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3 tablespoons honey
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional for depth of flavor)
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¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken
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Pat chicken tenders dry with paper towels.
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Season lightly with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
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Set up three bowls:
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One with flour
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One with beaten eggs
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One with panko breadcrumbs
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Dredge each chicken tender in flour, then dip in egg, and coat in breadcrumbs. Press gently to help crumbs stick.
2. Air Fry
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Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3 minutes.
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Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil spray.
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Arrange chicken tenders in a single layer (cook in batches if needed).
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Air fry for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F / 74°C).
3. Make the Honey Butter Garlic Sauce
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In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt butter.
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Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
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Stir in honey and soy sauce. Simmer for 1–2 minutes, until slightly thickened.
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Remove from heat and stir in red pepper flakes if desired.
4. Coat the Chicken
Toss the hot, crispy chicken tenders in the honey butter garlic sauce until evenly coated.
5. Serve
Serve immediately with extra sauce drizzled on top. Pairs perfectly with steamed rice, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad.
Tips
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For extra crunch, mix ½ cup crushed cornflakes with the breadcrumbs.
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If you prefer baked tenders, cook at 400°F (200°C) for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
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Add a squeeze of lemon juice to the sauce for a sweet-tangy balance.
Would you like me to include a spicy version with a honey sriracha glaze?