Looking for a crowd-pleasing, easy dinner that hits all the flavor notes? These Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders are crispy, juicy, sweet, savory, and incredibly addictive. Thanks to the air fryer, you get that golden, fried texture—without all the oil. This is the kind of recipe you’ll want to keep in heavy rotation, whether you’re feeding the family or serving guests.
Why You’ll Love These Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders
A Perfect Weeknight Dinner or Party Favorite
These chicken tenders are ready in under 30 minutes, making them the ultimate go-to for busy weeknights. They also double as the perfect appetizer or game day snack.
Healthier Than Deep Frying – But Just as Crispy
Air frying gives you that crave-worthy crunch without deep frying. Less mess, fewer calories, and all the texture you love.
Sweet, Savory, and Irresistibly Garlicky Flavor
The combo of garlic, honey, and melted butter creates a sticky, glossy glaze that clings to every bite of chicken. It’s bold, comforting, and slightly addictive.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything you need to make this finger-licking dish:
Chicken Tenders or Chicken Breast
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1½ lbs chicken tenders (or sliced chicken breast)
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Salt and black pepper to taste
Homemade Honey Butter Garlic Sauce
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¼ cup unsalted butter
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¼ cup honey
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4 cloves garlic (minced or finely grated)
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1 tbsp soy sauce (for depth)
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Optional: pinch of chili flakes for a kick
For the Breading
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1 cup flour
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2 large eggs (beaten)
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1½ cups panko breadcrumbs (for extra crispiness)
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½ tsp smoked paprika
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½ tsp garlic powder
Optional Add-Ins for Extra Flavor
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Dijon mustard in the sauce
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Lemon zest for a citrusy finish
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Cayenne or hot honey for heat
Kitchen Tools and Equipment
To make this recipe seamless:
The Best Air Fryer for Crispy Chicken Tenders
A large-capacity air fryer (like the Ninja Foodi or Cosori) helps you cook more tenders at once without overcrowding.
Mixing Bowls, Tongs, and Other Essentials
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Mixing bowls for dredging
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Tongs for flipping tenders
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A pastry brush (optional for sauce)
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Cooking spray or oil mister
How to Make Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders
Step 1 – Prep the Chicken and Set Up the Breading Station
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Pat the chicken dry with paper towels.
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Season both sides with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
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Set up 3 bowls:
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Flour
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Beaten eggs
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Panko + paprika
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Dip each tender into flour, then egg, then panko. Press to coat well.
Step 2 – Make the Honey Butter Garlic Sauce
While the chicken is cooking, melt butter in a small pan over medium heat.
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Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
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Stir in honey, soy sauce, and optional chili flakes.
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Simmer for 1–2 minutes until slightly thickened. Set aside.
Step 3 – Air Fry to Golden Perfection
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Preheat your air fryer to 390°F (200°C).
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Spray the basket and tenders with oil.
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Arrange in a single layer (work in batches if needed).
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Air fry for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
Step 4 – Toss in the Sauce and Serve Hot
Transfer the tenders to a bowl, drizzle or toss with the warm honey garlic butter sauce, and serve immediately.
Tips for Crispy and Juicy Chicken Tenders Every Time
Don’t Overcrowd the Air Fryer Basket
Give the tenders space to crisp up. Air needs to circulate for that golden crunch.
Use Cooking Spray for Even Browning
A quick mist of oil ensures a deep golden crust without the fryer.
How to Tell When Chicken Tenders Are Done
Use a meat thermometer—internal temp should hit 165°F (74°C).
Marinating Tips for Even More Flavor
You can marinate the chicken in buttermilk or seasoned yogurt for 30 minutes before breading. This tenderizes and adds flavor.
Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tender Variations
Spicy Sriracha Honey Butter Chicken
Add 1 tbsp sriracha to the butter sauce for heat lovers. You’ll get a sweet and spicy glaze that’s irresistible.
Lemon Garlic Herb Chicken Tenders
Swap honey for lemon juice and zest, and add chopped parsley and thyme for a fresh twist.
Low-Carb or Gluten-Free Alternatives
Use almond flour or crushed pork rinds instead of breadcrumbs, and coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
Serving Suggestions
These tenders are great on their own—but they shine even brighter with sides!
Perfect Side Dishes to Pair With These Tenders
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Garlic mashed potatoes
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Creamy mac and cheese
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Sweet potato fries
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Classic coleslaw
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Roasted green beans or broccoli
Dipping Sauce Ideas to Elevate the Flavor
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Spicy mayo or chipotle aioli
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Ranch or blue cheese
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Extra honey garlic butter sauce
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Dijon-honey mustard
Storage and Reheating Tips
How to Store Leftovers for Freshness
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
The Best Way to Reheat Without Losing Crispiness
Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5–6 minutes until crispy again.
Can You Freeze Air Fryer Chicken Tenders?
Absolutely! Freeze the breaded (but uncooked) tenders on a tray, then store in a freezer bag. Air fry straight from frozen—just add 3–4 minutes to cooking time.
FAQs About Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Tenders?
Yes! Boneless, skinless thighs work beautifully. Just slice them into strips and adjust cooking time slightly.
How Long Do You Cook Chicken Tenders in the Air Fryer?
Typically 10–12 minutes at 390°F, flipping once halfway through.
Is This Recipe Good for Meal Prep?
Definitely! Make ahead and reheat as needed. You can also prep the tenders and freeze before air frying.
Can I Make It Without an Air Fryer?
Yes. Bake at 425°F for 20 minutes or pan-fry in a bit of oil on the stovetop until golden and cooked through.
Final Thoughts
Why These Chicken Tenders Deserve a Spot in Your Recipe Rotation
They’re flavorful, fast, family-friendly, and totally satisfying. Once you try them, they’ll become a weekly favorite.
Share Your Twist in the Comments or Tag Us!
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