Description
These Air Fryer Chicken Tenders are coated in a crispy golden crust and tossed in a sweet, buttery garlic sauce. Perfect for a quick dinner or snack, they’re easy, flavorful, and kid-friendly!
Ingredients
Scale
For the Chicken Tenders:
- 1 lb chicken tenders (or chicken breasts cut into strips)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated (optional, for extra crispiness)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Cooking spray or olive oil spray
For the Honey Butter Garlic Sauce:
- 1/4 cup butter
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
- Set up a breading station:
- Bowl 1: Flour, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Bowl 2: Beaten eggs.
- Bowl 3: Panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
- Dredge each chicken tender in the flour mixture, dip into the egg, then coat in panko breadcrumbs. Press lightly to adhere.
Step 2: Air Fry the Chicken
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray and arrange tenders in a single layer.
- Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp 165°F/74°C).
Step 3: Make the Honey Butter Garlic Sauce
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt butter and sauté garlic for 30 seconds.
- Stir in honey, soy sauce, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 1-2 minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 4: Toss & Serve
- Transfer crispy chicken tenders to a bowl and toss them in the honey butter garlic sauce.
- Serve warm with extra sauce and your favorite dipping sauces!
Notes
- Extra Crunchy? Double-coat the tenders by dipping in egg and breadcrumbs twice.
- Spicy Kick? Add more red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce to the sauce.
- Serving Ideas: Pair with coleslaw, mashed potatoes, or fries for a full meal.
- Storage & Reheating: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 375°F for 3-4 minutes.