Craving something crispy, juicy, and absolutely bursting with flavor — but without the heavy grease of deep-frying? These Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders check every box. Golden on the outside, tender on the inside, and coated with a sweet, savory honey butter garlic sauce, they are the ultimate comfort food that you can whip up quickly in your air fryer.

Perfect for busy weeknights, casual gatherings, or even meal prepping for lunches, this recipe is easy enough for beginners but delicious enough to impress everyone around the table.

Why This Recipe is a Must-Try

This recipe is for anyone who loves that classic combination of sweet, savory, and garlicky goodness. Kids adore these chicken tenders, but trust me — adults will be fighting for the last one too! Using the air fryer cuts down significantly on fat and calories without sacrificing any of that deep-fried taste or satisfying crunch.

Even better? The ingredient list is short, the prep is minimal, and you can have these beauties ready in about 20 minutes from start to finish. Fast food cravings, conquered!

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 lb chicken tenders

• 4 tablespoons butter, melted

• 3 tablespoons honey

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

• 1 cup breadcrumbs

• Cooking spray

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Air fryer

• Mixing bowls

• Whisk or fork

• Tongs

• Measuring cups and spoons

• Basting brush (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Air Fryer

Start by preheating your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your chicken tenders will cook evenly and get that irresistible crispy coating.

2. Make the Honey Butter Garlic Mixture

In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the melted butter, honey, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. This mixture is where the magic happens — sweet, buttery, and full of garlicky punch.

3. Coat the Chicken Tenders

Dip each chicken tender into the honey butter mixture, making sure it’s fully coated on all sides. Work carefully to get a nice, even coating for maximum flavor.

4. Bread the Chicken

Next, roll each coated tender in breadcrumbs, pressing gently so the breadcrumbs stick well. The honey butter mixture acts as the perfect adhesive!

5. Arrange in the Air Fryer

Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Arrange the breaded chicken tenders in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding to ensure they get crispy on all sides.

6. Air Fry to Golden Perfection

Air fry the tenders for 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through. They’re done when they are golden brown and the internal temperature reads 165°F (74°C).

7. Serve and Enjoy

Serve your honey butter garlic chicken tenders immediately with your favorite dipping sauce — ranch, honey mustard, or spicy mayo all work wonderfully!

Tips and Shortcuts

• Shortcut: Use pre-minced garlic to save chopping time.

• Extra Crispy Tip: For an even crispier exterior, use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs.

• Uniform Size: Try to use chicken tenders of similar size for even cooking.

• Double Dip: For a thicker breading, dip the tenders back into the honey butter mixture and coat with breadcrumbs a second time before air frying.

Variations and Recipe Swaps

• Spicy Version: Add a teaspoon of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the honey butter mixture.

• Cheesy Upgrade: Mix grated Parmesan cheese into the breadcrumbs before coating.

• Low-Carb Option: Use crushed pork rinds or almond flour instead of breadcrumbs.

• Vegan Option: Swap chicken tenders for firm tofu strips, and use vegan butter and agave syrup instead of honey.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

• Storage: Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes until heated through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the tenders soggy.

• Freezing: You can freeze cooked tenders for up to 2 months. Reheat straight from frozen in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes.

Perfect Pairings

Side Dishes:

• Crispy French fries

• Coleslaw

• Macaroni and cheese

• Roasted vegetables

Drink Pairings:

• Iced tea

• Lemonade

• Light lager or pilsner (for adults)

The sweet and savory flavors of the tenders pair beautifully with simple, fresh sides and light beverages.

FAQ

Can I bake these chicken tenders instead of using an air fryer?

Yes! Bake them in a 400°F (200°C) oven for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and cooked through.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?

Absolutely. Just slice the chicken breasts into strips for similar-sized pieces.

How do I keep the breading from falling off?

Make sure the tenders are well coated in the honey butter mixture and press the breadcrumbs firmly onto the chicken. Also, avoid moving them too much during the first few minutes of air frying.

What’s the best way to tell if the chicken is done?

Use an instant-read thermometer — the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes! Simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure your other ingredients (like spices) are certified gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a quick, delicious, and family-friendly recipe, these Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders will become a regular in your dinner rotation. They’re crispy, flavorful, and so much healthier than deep-fried versions — without sacrificing an ounce of taste.

If you enjoyed this recipe, please share it with your friends and family! Don’t forget to subscribe to the blog for more easy, flavorful recipes that make home cooking a joy. Happy air frying!