If you are searching for a flavorful yet simple meal, then this Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders Recipe is going to be your new best friend in the kitchen. Crispy on the outside with tender, juicy chicken inside, these tenders are generously coated in a luscious honey butter garlic sauce that balances sweetness, richness, and a touch of spice perfectly. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe promises a delightful experience that’s quick, fuss-free, and absolutely irresistible.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders Recipe plays a vital role in creating that mouthwatering combination of flavors and textures. From the fresh garlic to the buttery honey glaze, these simple components work together beautifully to deliver a dish that looks as good as it tastes.
- 1 lb chicken tenders: The star protein, naturally tender and perfect for quick cooking.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Helps the chicken achieve a nice golden crust while keeping it moist.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning and enhancing the natural flavors of the chicken.
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness and the creamy base for the sauce.
- 2 tbsp honey: Brings a subtle sweetness that beautifully balances the savory garlic.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic infuses the dish with aromatic depth and warmth.
- ½ tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning (optional): Adds a herby note for extra complexity if you like a hint of earthiness.
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional): Offers a gentle kick, enhancing the flavor without overpowering it.
How to Make Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Tenders
Start by patting the chicken tenders dry with paper towels to ensure they crisp up nicely in the air fryer. Rub them evenly with olive oil, then season both sides generously with salt and pepper. This simple step sets the foundation for perfectly seasoned, golden chicken.
Step 2: Preheat the Air Fryer
Turn your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and let it preheat for about 5 minutes. Preheating is essential to kick-start the cooking process, resulting in that coveted crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender and juicy.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken Tenders
Place the seasoned chicken tenders in a single layer inside the air fryer basket to allow even air circulation and a perfect crisp. Cook for 10 to 12 minutes, flipping the tenders halfway through, until they turn a beautiful golden brown. Check with a meat thermometer that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) to ensure they’re fully cooked and safe to enjoy.
Step 4: Prepare the Honey Butter Garlic Sauce
While the chicken is cooking, melt the unsalted butter in a small bowl. Add the honey, freshly minced garlic, and if you like, the dried thyme or Italian seasoning along with red pepper flakes for a touch of heat. Stir until all the flavors blend into a silky, aromatic sauce that will transform your tenders.
Step 5: Coat the Chicken
Once your chicken tenders are cooked through, transfer them to a large bowl. Pour the prepared honey butter garlic sauce over the tenders, tossing gently but thoroughly so each piece is coated with that glossy and flavorful glaze. This step is where the magic truly happens, turning simple tenders into a dish bursting with taste.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your deliciously glazed chicken tenders immediately with your favorite accompaniments. Whether it’s crispy fries, roasted veggies, or a crisp salad, these tenders bring warmth and excitement to any meal.
How to Serve Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives over the top adds a fresh pop of color and a hint of herbaceous brightness that complements the rich honey butter garlic sauce perfectly. Adding a wedge of lemon on the side can offer a zesty contrast for those who enjoy a little tang.
Side Dishes
These chicken tenders pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. Crisp French fries or sweet potato fries echo the crispy texture, while roasted or steamed vegetables provide balance and nutrients. A fresh garden salad or coleslaw can add crunch and lighten up the plate beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve these tenders as sliders with soft buns and a dab of mayo or aioli. You can also chop them up to top a vibrant salad or transform the tenders into a filling for wraps or tacos garnished with slaw and avocado slices. The versatility is endless and always inviting.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders Recipe, place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate them. They’ll stay fresh and tasty for up to 3 days—perfect for a quick lunch or an easy dinner on busy days.
Freezing
If you want to save tenders for a longer period, freeze them in a freezer-safe container or bag. When properly stored, they maintain their deliciousness for up to 2 months. Just remember to thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat your chicken tenders in the air fryer at 350°F for about 3 to 4 minutes to bring back their crispness and warmth. Alternatively, warming them in an oven or on a stovetop skillet works well if you prefer. Avoid microwaving as it can make the coating soggy.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken tenders for this recipe?
Yes, but it’s best to thaw them completely and pat dry before seasoning and cooking to ensure even cooking and the best texture.
Is it necessary to flip the chicken halfway through air frying?
Flipping helps to achieve an even golden crust on both sides, but if your air fryer has excellent air circulation, it may not be absolutely necessary.
Can I substitute honey with another sweetener?
Maple syrup or agave nectar can work nicely as substitutes, offering a slightly different but equally delightful sweetness.
What if I don’t have dried thyme or Italian seasoning?
No worries! The sauce is delicious without them, but you can experiment with other herbs like oregano or rosemary to add a unique twist.
How spicy is this recipe with red pepper flakes?
The ¼ teaspoon adds just a gentle warmth, not overwhelming heat. You can adjust or omit it depending on your spice preference.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders Recipe enough—it’s straightforward, quick, and bursting with flavor in every bite. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a casual weekend treat, these tenders always bring warmth and satisfaction to the table. Give it a try; I promise it’ll become a favorite in your recipe collection!
Print
Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 17 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
Crispy and flavorful Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders cooked to golden perfection and coated in a delicious honey butter garlic sauce, perfect for a quick and tasty meal.
Ingredients
Chicken Tenders
- 1 lb chicken tenders (about 8 tenders)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Honey Butter Garlic Sauce
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tbsp honey
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning (optional)
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken Tenders: Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels. Rub them with olive oil and season with salt and pepper on both sides to ensure even seasoning and crispiness.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes to achieve an optimal cooking temperature for crispy chicken.
- Cook the Chicken Tenders: Arrange the seasoned chicken tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Prepare the Honey Butter Garlic Sauce: While the chicken cooks, melt the butter in a small bowl. Add honey, minced garlic, thyme or Italian seasoning (if using), and red pepper flakes for heat (if using). Stir well to combine the sauce.
- Coat the Chicken: Once cooked, transfer the chicken tenders to a large bowl. Pour the honey butter garlic sauce over the tenders and toss them to coat evenly, ensuring each piece is infused with flavor.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve the honey butter garlic chicken tenders immediately with your favorite sides such as fries, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Notes
- Make sure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket to allow even cooking.
- Adjust red pepper flakes according to your preferred spice level or omit for a mild flavor.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is cooked safely to 165°F (74°C).
- For extra crispiness, pat chicken dry before seasoning.
- Leftovers can be stored refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the air fryer for best texture.
