These Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders are my go-to for a quick weeknight dinner! The chicken is perfectly crispy on the outside, juicy inside, and coated with a sweet and savory honey garlic sauce that everyone loves. I first tried this recipe on a busy evening, and it was ready in under 30 minutes. My family devoured it instantly!
If you love quick and flavorful chicken recipes, you’ll also enjoy my One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta, another easy weeknight dinner favorite.
Why We Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes.
- Crispy & Juicy: Air fryer cooks perfectly every time.
- Sweet & Savory: Honey garlic sauce is irresistible.
- Family Favorite: Kids and adults love it!
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 lb chicken tenders
- ¼ cup honey
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- Cooking spray
Equipment You Will Need
How to Make Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders
Prepare the Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together honey, melted butter, garlic, paprika, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
Coat the Chicken
Add chicken tenders to the bowl and toss until fully coated in the honey garlic mixture.
Bread the Chicken
Spread breadcrumbs on a plate. Dredge each chicken tender in breadcrumbs until evenly coated.
Preheat Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) and lightly spray the basket with cooking spray.
Air Fry
Place the chicken tenders in a single layer in the basket. Air fry for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.
Serve
Let the tenders rest for a few minutes before serving. For extra crunch, double-bread by dipping back in the honey mixture and breadcrumbs.
Serving & Storage
- Serve immediately for maximum crispiness.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Reheat in the air fryer to keep them crispy.
For more creamy pasta ideas to pair with your chicken tenders, check out my Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta, rich, cheesy, and full of flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve these crispy chicken tenders with mashed potatoes or roasted veggies for a complete dinner.
- Pair with a side of honey mustard or garlic aioli for dipping.
- Add a fresh salad or coleslaw to balance the sweet and savory flavors.
- Great for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or game day snacks.
- Sprinkle a little fresh parsley or chili flakes for an attractive presentation.
Expert Tips
- Use Panko Breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket it ensures even cooking.
- Double Coat for a thicker, crunchier layer.
- Fresh Garlic gives a stronger flavor than garlic powder.
Final Thoughts
These Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders are perfect for busy weeknights, parties, or anytime you want crispy, juicy chicken with a touch of sweetness. Easy to make, packed with flavor, and loved by everyone!
Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders – Crispy & Sweet
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken tenders
- ¼ cup honey
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- Cooking spray
Instructions
Prepare the Sauce
- Mix honey, melted butter, garlic, paprika, salt, and black pepper in a bowl until smooth.
Coat the Chicken
- Add chicken tenders to the bowl and toss until fully coated in the honey garlic sauce.
Bread the Chicken
- Spread breadcrumbs on a plate. Dredge each chicken tender in breadcrumbs evenly.
Preheat Air Fryer
- Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C) and lightly spray the basket with cooking spray.
Air Fry
- Place chicken tenders in a single layer. Air fry 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and fully cooked.
Serve
- Let rest a few minutes. Optional: double coat with honey sauce and breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
