Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders Air Fryer Recipe

December 16, 2025July 17, 2025 by Chef Tavio

Ingredients

Detailed Ingredient List

– Chicken tenders (1 lb)

– All-purpose flour (1/2 cup)

– Seasonings (1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika, salt, black pepper)

– Honey (1/4 cup)

– Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons)

– Minced garlic (3 cloves)

– Fresh parsley (for garnish)

To make Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders, you need simple ingredients. First, gather 1 pound of chicken tenders. They are easy to cook and tender. Next, you will need half a cup of all-purpose flour. This flour helps create a crispy coating.

For flavor, use seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. You will need one teaspoon of garlic powder and onion powder, and half a teaspoon of smoked paprika. Adjust salt and pepper to your taste.

Next is the sauce. You will need a quarter cup of honey. This adds a sweet touch. Also, get two tablespoons of unsalted butter. Melt it for the sauce. Finally, use three cloves of minced garlic to add flavor. For garnish, chop some fresh parsley. It adds color and freshness to the dish.

These ingredients work together to create a tasty meal. Each component plays a role in building flavor. Using quality ingredients makes your dish even better. Enjoy the process of cooking with these simple yet delicious items!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation for Chicken

First, you need to pat the chicken tenders dry. Use a paper towel to remove moisture. This step helps the flour stick better. It also gives you a crispy texture.

Making the Seasoning Mixture

In a shallow bowl, mix the dry ingredients. Combine the all-purpose flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Whisk well. This ensures the flavors blend evenly.

Coating the Chicken

Now, let’s coat the chicken. Dredge each tender in the seasoned flour. Press gently to cover all sides. Shake off any extra flour. This prevents clumping and keeps the coating light. Place the tenders on a plate.

Air Frying Instructions

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F. This takes about five minutes. Once ready, arrange the chicken tenders in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding for even cooking. Lightly spray the tenders with cooking spray. Cook for 10-12 minutes. Flip them halfway through. Check the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F.

Preparing Honey Butter Garlic Sauce

While the chicken cooks, make the sauce. In a small saucepan, combine honey, melted butter, and minced garlic. Stir over low heat. This helps the garlic release its aroma. Do not let it boil; you want a warm mixture.

Final Steps

Once the chicken is cooked, transfer it to a bowl. Pour the warm honey butter garlic sauce over the tenders. Toss gently until they are coated. For a lovely touch, garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Enjoy your tasty meal!

Tips & Tricks

Achieving Crispy Chicken Tenders

To get that perfect crispy texture, start by coating your chicken tenders properly. Use a dry paper towel to pat the chicken dry. This step helps the flour stick better. When you coat the chicken, dredge it in the seasoned flour mixture. Press gently to ensure the flour sticks. Shake off any extra flour to avoid clumps.

Adjusting the air fryer settings is also key. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about five minutes. This helps the chicken cook evenly. Be sure to cook in a single layer. If you overcrowd the basket, the tenders will steam instead of crisp.

Selecting the Best Ingredients

The quality of your chicken tenders matters. Fresh chicken tends to be juicier and more flavorful. Look for tenders that are plump and firm.

When it comes to garlic, fresh is best! Fresh garlic has a stronger flavor than jarred garlic. For the best taste, use three cloves of finely minced garlic. This adds a rich, fragrant element to the sauce.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One common mistake is overcrowding the air fryer. If you place too many tenders in at once, they won’t cook properly. Always leave space for air to circulate. It’s better to cook in batches if needed.

Another mistake is not preheating the air fryer. Failing to preheat can lead to uneven cooking. Always take the time to preheat your air fryer for the best results. This small step makes a big difference in the final dish!

Variations

Spicy Honey Butter Garlic Tenders

To add a kick, mix in chili flakes or hot sauce to your honey butter garlic sauce. This will give the tenders a spicy twist. You can also try using different seasonings, like cayenne pepper or smoked chipotle, to enhance the heat. Adjust the amount to your taste.

Gluten-Free Version

If you need a gluten-free option, substitute all-purpose flour with almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend. These options maintain the flavor and texture of the chicken. Just ensure your seasonings are also gluten-free to keep the dish safe.

Serving Suggestions

These chicken tenders pair well with simple side dishes like mashed potatoes or coleslaw. You can also serve them with fresh veggies or a light salad. For dipping sauces, consider ranch, honey mustard, or a spicy aioli. Each adds a different flavor that complements the tenders perfectly.

Storage Info

How to Store Leftovers

To keep your honey butter garlic chicken tenders fresh, store them in the fridge. Place them in an airtight container. Make sure they cool down before sealing. This will help maintain their taste and texture. They can last up to three days in the refrigerator.

Reheating Tips

For the best results, I suggest reheating in the air fryer. Set it to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 5-7 minutes. This keeps them crispy. If you don’t have an air fryer, use a regular oven. Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 10-15 minutes. You can also use a microwave, but they may get soggy.

Freezing Options

You can freeze these chicken tenders either before or after cooking. To freeze before cooking, coat the tenders as instructed, then place them on a tray. Once frozen, transfer them into a freezer bag. For freezing after cooking, let them cool first. Then, store them in an airtight container or freezer bag. When you’re ready, reheat directly from frozen. Adjust the cooking time in the air fryer to about 15 minutes at 350°F (175°C).

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of tenders?

Yes, you can use chicken breast. It works well, but there are pros and cons.

Pros:

– Chicken breast is leaner, making it a healthier choice.

– It is easy to find and usually less expensive.

Cons:

– Chicken breast can dry out quicker than tenders.

– Tenders cook faster, so you need to watch the time.

If you use chicken breast, cut it into strips for even cooking.

What to do if my air fryer is overcrowded?

If your air fryer is overcrowded, cook in batches. This helps the chicken cook evenly.

– Place only enough tenders for one layer.

– Keep them apart to allow air to flow.

After cooking the first batch, keep it warm in the oven while you finish the rest.

How to make the sauce spicier?

To add heat to the sauce, try these simple options:

– Add red pepper flakes for a kick.

– Use hot sauce mixed in with the honey.

– Stir in a bit of cayenne pepper for extra spice.

Always taste as you go to get the right level of heat.

Can I bake these chicken tenders instead?

Yes, you can bake the chicken tenders if you prefer that method.

– Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

– Place the coated tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Bake for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway. Check for an internal temp of 165°F (74°C) for safety.

In this article, we explored making crispy honey butter garlic chicken tenders. We covered essential ingredients, detailed steps, and helpful tips to ensure your chicken turns out perfect. Remember to coat the chicken well for that crunch and use fresh ingredients for the best taste. Don’t forget the storage and reheating tips to keep leftovers tasty. Enjoy experimenting with variations, like spicy versions or gluten-free options. With these ideas, you’ll create a dish that impresses everyone. Happy cookin