If you’re looking for the kind of meal that hits every possible craving—sweet, savory, garlicky, and perfectly crisp—then you need to try these Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders. They’re impossibly juicy on the inside, crunchy on the outside, and smothered in the most addictive honey butter garlic sauce you’ll ever taste. This recipe is a foolproof crowd-pleaser that’s quick to whip up, and it will make everyone at the table ask for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These staple ingredients come together for magic: every one of them adds their own touch of flavor, color, or crispiness. You probably have most of them on hand already, and their simplicity is what makes Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders truly shine.
- Chicken Tenders: Go for fresh chicken tenders so the meat stays juicy and tender throughout air frying.
- Buttermilk: This tenderizes the chicken and infuses it with flavor as it marinates.
- Garlic Powder: A pantry stalwart for deep, punchy flavor that pairs perfectly with the honey butter sauce.
- Onion Powder: Adds a subtle sweetness and rounds out the seasoning blend.
- Paprika: Gives a lovely hint of warmth and a touch of color to the tenders.
- Salt: Brings out all the best flavors in the chicken and the breading.
- Black Pepper: For a dash of heat and balance.
- All-Purpose Flour: The first layer of the breading for that classic, satisfying crunch.
- Panko Breadcrumbs: Essential for an airy, shatteringly crisp crust.
- Eggs: They help everything stick together and add richness to the coating.
- Honey: The star sweetener for that sticky, glossy, finger-licking sauce.
- Unsalted Butter: For ultimate richness in the honey garlic glaze.
- Minced Garlic: Fresh garlic makes the sauce a true show-stopper.
- Cooking Spray or Oil: A light mist helps ensure your chicken turns golden-brown without deep frying.
How to Make Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by whisking together your buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl. Add the chicken tenders, turning to coat, and cover. Let them marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes—though if you have the patience, overnight is even better for extra flavor and tenderness. This step sets the foundation, infusing the chicken with pure deliciousness.
Step 2: Set Up the Breading Station
Get three shallow bowls lined up: one with all-purpose flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs. This assembly line makes coating a breeze and keeps things tidy. The crispiness of your Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders really depends on this triple dip!
Step 3: Dredge the Chicken
Remove the chicken tenders from the marinade, letting the excess drip off. Dredge each piece first in flour, then dip in the egg, and finally press into the panko breadcrumbs to coat well. If you crave that extra crunch, repeat the egg and breadcrumb step for a double coating—the texture is worth the extra minute!
Step 4: Air Fry the Tenders
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F for about 5 minutes. Spritz the air fryer basket with oil or cooking spray, arrange the breaded tenders in a single layer (don’t crowd them!), and mist the tops with a bit more oil. Air fry for 10 to 12 minutes, flipping halfway through. You’ll know they’re ready when they turn a gorgeous golden brown and are cooked through.
Step 5: Make the Honey Butter Garlic Sauce
While the tenders are cooking, melt unsalted butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and let it sizzle and soften for a minute or two, just until fragrant—don’t let it go brown. Whisk in the honey and cook for another minute until the sauce is smooth and glossy.
Step 6: Sauce and Serve
Once the tenders are perfectly crisp and piping hot, toss them in the honey butter garlic sauce or brush the sauce generously over each one. Serve them immediately so you get the full crunch-and-glaze experience. These Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders will disappear faster than you can say “seconds, please!”
How to Serve Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders
Garnishes
Garnish these beauties with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley for color, or try thinly sliced green onions for extra zing. If you enjoy a touch of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes adds an inviting pop of color and flavor. Even a gentle drizzle of extra honey never hurts for that glistening, sticky finish!
Side Dishes
The sweet-savory punch of Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders begs for classic pairing options: think creamy mashed potatoes, crunchy coleslaw, or a simple green salad. For a fun spin, serve them with waffle fries or fluffy biscuits for the ultimate comfort food meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Pile the tenders high on a wooden board with ramekins of extra sauce on the side for dipping, or tuck them into soft slider buns with lettuce and pickles for a next-level chicken sandwich. They also shine as part of a build-your-own taco or wrap night—just add your favorite toppings!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have any Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders left, let them cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store the sauce separately to keep the tenders crispy until you’re ready to eat.
Freezing
These tenders freeze beautifully! Place cooled, unsauced tenders on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag or container for up to 2 months. Freeze the honey butter garlic sauce in a small airtight container or ice cube tray alongside them.
Reheating
To bring back that crispy texture, reheat tenders in the air fryer at 350°F for 4–6 minutes, flipping once. Warm the sauce on the stove or in the microwave until pourable, then toss or brush the tenders just before serving. This trick keeps them close to freshly made perfection!
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?
Absolutely! Simply slice the breasts into strips about the same size as tenders to ensure they cook evenly in the air fryer.
Is there a substitute for buttermilk in the marinade?
If you’re out of buttermilk, make your own by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to 1 cup of milk—let it sit for a few minutes, and it’s ready to use.
Can I make Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders gluten-free?
Yes! Swap the flour and panko for your favorite gluten-free alternatives. Many stores carry gluten-free breadcrumbs that work wonderfully for this recipe.
How do I prevent the breading from falling off?
Press the panko on firmly and avoid moving the tenders too much during air frying. Double coating (egg and breadcrumbs twice) can also help the crust really stick.
Can I make the honey butter garlic sauce ahead of time?
You sure can! Store the sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week and reheat gently before serving over fresh or reheated tenders.
Final Thoughts
You won’t believe how fast Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders come together or how quickly they vanish from the table! I can’t wait for you to try this irresistible combo of sweet, buttery, and garlicky flavors. Pull out your air fryer and get ready to make a new family favorite!
