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Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders


  • Author: Emily
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 10-12 tenders 1x

Description

These crispy Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders are coated in a crunchy cornflake crust and tossed in a rich, sweet, and savory honey butter garlic sauce. Perfect for a quick dinner, appetizer, or snack!


Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken Tenders

  • 1 lb chicken tenders (or 2 chicken breasts, cut into strips)
  • 2 cups corn flakes (crushed)
  • 1 tbsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 3 eggs

For the Honey Butter Garlic Sauce

  • 5 tbsp salted butter
  • 2 tbsp minced garlic
  • 3 tbsp honey
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Tenders

  1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Crush the cornflakes into fine crumbs using a food processor or rolling pin. Place in a shallow dish.
  3. In a mixing bowl, whisk the eggs and add salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
  4. Dip each chicken tender into the egg mixture, ensuring an even coat.
  5. Roll the coated chicken in crushed cornflakes, pressing gently to adhere.

Step 2: Air Fry the Chicken Tenders

  1. Spray the air fryer basket lightly with oil to prevent sticking.
  2. Arrange the tenders in a single layer, ensuring they do not touch.
  3. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
  4. Remove from the air fryer and let them rest for 2 minutes before adding the sauce.

Step 3: Prepare the Honey Butter Garlic Sauce

  1. In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
  2. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
  3. Stir in honey and soy sauce, whisking until combined.
  4. Simmer for 1-2 minutes until slightly thickened, then remove from heat.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken Tenders

  1. Transfer the cooked chicken tenders into the saucepan.
  2. Gently toss until fully coated in the honey butter garlic sauce.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy

  • Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions or sesame seeds if desired.
  • Pair with your favorite dipping sauce or side dishes!

Notes

  • For extra crispiness, double coat the tenders by repeating the egg and cornflake step.
  • Let the coated tenders sit for 5 minutes before air frying to help the breading adhere.
  • For a spicier kick, add ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix.
  • If you prefer baking, cook at 425°F (218°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Air Fryer
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 3 tenders
  • Calories: 375
  • Sugar: 9g
  • Sodium: 650mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Carbohydrates: 38g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 31g
  • Cholesterol: 135mg