Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders

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Golden, sticky, and tender with just the right amount of garlicky sweetness—this recipe is one I always come back to when I want something that’s both ridiculously easy and deliciously satisfying. The air fryer does all the hard work here, crisping up the chicken tenders to perfection without needing a drop of oil. Then comes the magic: a buttery, garlicky honey glaze that clings to each piece like a flavorful hug.

I first tried this on a weeknight when I was craving something indulgent but didn’t want the mess of frying. What surprised me most wasn’t just how fast it came together, but how family-pleasing it turned out to be. Everyone reached for seconds. This dish has become a staple in my kitchen, and I’m thrilled to share it with you.

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Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders Recipe

This recipe is the sweet and savory dinner hero your busy weeknights need. You’ll love it because it’s:

• Quick and air fryer-friendly—cooks in under 15 minutes!
• Rich and flavorful from the perfect blend of garlic, butter, and honey.
• Kid-approved and great for picky eaters.
• Versatile—easy to pair with just about anything.
• Cleaner and healthier than deep frying, but with all the crispiness.

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What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

For this Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders recipe, I always go with boneless, skinless chicken tenders or sliced chicken breasts. They cook quickly and evenly in the air fryer, making them ideal for busy nights. If you’re using whole breasts, just slice them into strips about the size of standard tenders. The goal is even thickness for uniform cooking.

You could also use boneless thighs if you prefer a richer flavor and a bit more moisture. Just keep in mind they might take a couple more minutes to cook through compared to breast meat.

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Options for Substitutions

Whether you’re working with dietary restrictions or just out of an ingredient, this recipe is flexible. Here are a few smart swaps:

• Butter: Swap with vegan butter or ghee if needed. For a lighter touch, olive oil can work, but you’ll miss some of that creamy richness.
• Honey: Maple syrup or agave nectar can be used for a slightly different but equally sticky-sweet glaze.
• Garlic: Fresh is best, but garlic powder will do in a pinch—use ½ teaspoon for every clove.
• Chicken: Tofu strips or cauliflower florets are great plant-based alternatives. Just adjust the cooking time slightly.
• Soy sauce (if using in marinade): Try tamari or coconut aminos for gluten-free versions.

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Ingredients for This Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders Recipe

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a vital role in building flavor and texture. Here’s what you’ll need and why it matters:

• Chicken tenders – The star of the dish. These cook quickly and absorb all the sweet-savory goodness of the glaze.
• Salt and black pepper – Essential for seasoning the chicken before cooking, adding depth to the base flavor.
• Garlic (minced) – Delivers that aromatic punch and rich, slightly spicy warmth that balances the sweetness.
• Unsalted butter – Forms the rich, velvety base of the glaze, helping it cling beautifully to the chicken.
• Honey – Brings sweetness and caramelizes slightly in the heat, creating that signature sticky coating.
• Paprika (optional) – Adds a subtle smoky note and enhances color.
• Olive oil spray (for air frying) – Ensures the tenders get a golden, slightly crisp finish without deep frying.
• Parsley (for garnish) – A fresh pop of color and mild herbal note to finish things off attractively.

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Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by patting the chicken tenders dry with paper towels. This helps them get crispy in the air fryer. Season the chicken generously with salt, black pepper, and a light sprinkle of paprika (if using) to add a bit of flavor base.

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Step 2: Air Fry the Chicken

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray the basket with olive oil to prevent sticking. Arrange the seasoned chicken tenders in a single layer, making sure they don’t overlap. Air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even cooking. They should be golden brown on the outside and cooked through on the inside.

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Step 3: Make the Honey Butter Garlic Glaze

While the chicken is cooking, melt the butter in a small pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, stirring frequently, until fragrant but not burnt. Stir in the honey and allow it to simmer for 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.

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Step 4: Glaze the Chicken

Once the chicken tenders are cooked, transfer them to a large bowl. Pour the honey butter garlic glaze over the chicken, tossing to coat each piece evenly. The glaze should cling to the tenders, creating a shiny, irresistible coating.

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Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle chopped parsley over the top for a touch of color and freshness. Serve immediately with your favorite sides, and enjoy the sweet-savory crunch of these chicken tenders!

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How Long to Cook the Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders

Cooking the chicken tenders in the air fryer typically takes 8-10 minutes at 375°F (190°C). The key is to flip them halfway through for even cooking, ensuring they’re crispy and golden all over. The exact time can vary slightly depending on the thickness of your chicken tenders, so I recommend checking that the internal temperature has reached 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.

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Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders

• Don’t overcrowd the basket: Give the chicken tenders enough space in the air fryer to allow the hot air to circulate evenly. This ensures they cook up crispy and evenly browned.
• Pat the chicken dry: This step is crucial for achieving crispy chicken. The less moisture on the surface, the crispier the coating will be.
• Use fresh garlic: While garlic powder works in a pinch, fresh garlic adds a deeper, more robust flavor that elevates the glaze.
• Adjust the sweetness: Depending on how sweet you like your glaze, feel free to adjust the honey. More honey will give you a sweeter, stickier glaze, while less will create a more balanced, savory coating.
• Don’t skip the parsley garnish: Not only does it add a pop of color, but the freshness of parsley complements the richness of the honey butter glaze.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

To make sure your Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders come out perfect every time, avoid these common mistakes:

• Overcrowding the air fryer: This prevents the tenders from cooking evenly and can make them soggy. Air needs to circulate around each piece, so always leave space between the tenders.
• Not flipping the chicken halfway through: Flipping the tenders halfway through the cooking time ensures both sides get crispy and golden. Don’t skip this step!
• Using too much glaze: While the honey butter garlic glaze is delicious, using too much can overwhelm the chicken and make it overly sticky. Coat the tenders evenly but don’t drown them in sauce.
• Underseasoning the chicken: Even though the glaze is flavorful, seasoning the chicken before cooking ensures the entire dish is well-seasoned, not just the outer coating.

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What to Serve With Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders?

These chicken tenders are versatile and pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. Here are a few ideas:

1. Crispy Fries

Classic and comforting, crispy fries are the perfect sidekick to the tender chicken. You can also make them in the air fryer for an extra crispy crunch.

2. Mashed Potatoes

Creamy mashed potatoes are always a hit with savory dishes. They pair well with the rich honey butter glaze, absorbing all the goodness.

3. Coleslaw

A tangy and crunchy coleslaw offers a refreshing contrast to the rich, sticky chicken tenders. The crunchiness balances the tenderness of the chicken.

4. Steamed Vegetables

Lightly steamed vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or green beans provide a healthy and colorful side to complement the meal.

5. Rice Pilaf

Fluffy rice pilaf with a bit of butter and herbs makes for a hearty and filling side that’s a perfect match for the sweet and savory chicken tenders.

6. Garlic Bread

For something extra indulgent, serve the chicken tenders with garlic bread. The crispy, garlicky bread works well to soak up any leftover glaze.

7. Side Salad

A fresh side salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette will add a fresh element to balance the richness of the chicken.

8. Macaroni and Cheese

Creamy macaroni and cheese is a comforting side that pairs beautifully with chicken tenders, making for a satisfying, indulgent meal.

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Storage Instructions

To store leftovers of your Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders, follow these simple guidelines:

• Refrigeration: Place the chicken tenders in an airtight container and refrigerate them for up to 3 days. Make sure the tenders have cooled down to room temperature before storing them to prevent condensation, which can make the coating soggy.
• Freezing: If you want to store the chicken for a longer period, you can freeze it. Place the cooled tenders in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze them until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or airtight container. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months in the freezer. When ready to eat, you can reheat them in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until heated through.

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Estimated Nutrition

The nutritional values provided below are based on a serving of chicken tenders (approximately 4 pieces):

• Calories: 270 kcal
• Protein: 20g
• Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Sugars: 8g
• Sodium: 420mg
• Cholesterol: 65mg

These values are approximations and can vary depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can make these chicken tenders gluten-free by using a gluten-free flour alternative for any coatings, or by skipping the breading altogether if you prefer. Just be sure to check the labels on the seasonings and honey, as some brands might add hidden gluten.

2. Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?

Absolutely! If you don’t have chicken tenders, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Simply slice the breasts into strips or cutlets, ensuring they are of even thickness to cook evenly in the air fryer.

3. How can I make the chicken extra crispy?

For an even crispier finish, lightly dredge the chicken tenders in cornstarch or a gluten-free breadcrumb mixture before air frying. This creates a crunchy coating that holds the glaze beautifully.

4. Can I prepare the glaze in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the honey butter garlic glaze ahead of time. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Reheat it gently before using it on the cooked chicken.

5. Can I double the recipe?

Definitely! If you’re cooking for a crowd, you can easily double or triple the recipe. Just make sure to cook the chicken in batches so that they cook evenly. Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket.

6. How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?

The air fryer does a great job of keeping chicken tender, but be careful not to overcook it. Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer—when it hits 165°F (74°C), it’s done. You can also brine the chicken for 30 minutes before cooking to help lock in moisture.

7. Can I use the glaze as a dipping sauce?

Yes! The honey butter garlic glaze is perfect as a dipping sauce for your chicken tenders. You can set some aside before coating the chicken for this purpose, ensuring the dipping sauce stays separate from the glaze.

8. What other proteins can I use for this recipe?

While chicken tenders are the go-to option, you could try this recipe with shrimp, tofu, or even pork tenderloin. Just adjust the cooking times depending on the protein.

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Conclusion

These Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders are a perfect balance of savory, sweet, and crispy—everything you want in a quick, weeknight dinner. Whether you’re serving them with fries, a salad, or creamy mashed potatoes, they’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Plus, the best part? The air fryer makes it all possible without the mess of deep frying.

Give this recipe a try, and I’m sure it’ll become one of your new favorites!

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