Air Fryer Honey Butter Chicken Tenders: A Deliciously Crispy Recipe

Air Fryer Honey Butter Chicken Tenders are a delightful twist on a classic favorite that will have your taste buds dancing with joy. Imagine tender, juicy chicken coated in a sweet and savory honey butter glaze, all cooked to perfection in an air fryer. This recipe not only offers a healthier alternative to traditional frying but also captures the essence of comfort food that we all crave. The combination of crispy exterior and succulent interior makes these chicken tenders irresistible.

Historically, chicken tenders have been a beloved dish across various cultures, often served at family gatherings and celebrations. The addition of honey butter elevates this dish, bringing a touch of sweetness that perfectly complements the savory notes of the chicken. People love Air Fryer Honey Butter Chicken Tenders for their incredible flavor, satisfying texture, and the convenience of quick preparation. Whether you’re serving them as a weeknight dinner or a party appetizer, these tenders are sure to impress everyone at the table!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound chicken tenders
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cornmeal
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tablespoon hot sauce (optional)
• Cooking spray or olive oil spray

Preparing the Marinade

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Whisk everything together until well blended. This marinade will not only add flavor but also tenderize the chicken. 2. Add the chicken tenders to the marinade, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight for maximum flavor.

Preparing the Coating

3. While the chicken is marinating, let’s prepare the coating. In a separate bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour and cornmeal. This combination will give the chicken a nice crunch when cooked. 4. Once the chicken has marinated, remove it from the refrigerator. Take each chicken tender out of the marinade, allowing any excess liquid to drip off. 5. Dredge each chicken tender in the flour and cornmeal mixture, making sure to coat it evenly. Press the coating onto the chicken to ensure it sticks well. Place the coated tenders on a plate or a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Cooking the Chicken Tenders

6. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This step is crucial for achieving that crispy texture we all love. 7. Once preheated, lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or olive oil spray to prevent sticking. 8. Place the coated chicken tenders in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd them. You may need to cook them in batches depending on the size of your air fryer. 9. Cook the chicken tenders for 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time. The tenders should be golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Preparing the Honey Butter Sauce

10. While the chicken is cooking, let’s whip up the honey butter sauce. In a small saucepan over low heat, combine the melted butter and honey. Stir until well combined and smooth. If you like a little kick, add the hot sauce at this stage and mix well. 11. Once the sauce is heated through, remove it from the heat and set it aside.

Assembling the Dish

12. Once the chicken tenders are done cooking, carefully remove them from the air fryer and place them on a serving platter. 13. Drizzle the warm honey butter sauce generously over the chicken tenders. You can also serve the sauce on the side for dipping if you prefer. 14. For an extra touch, you can garnish the dish with chopped fresh parsley or a sprinkle of sesame seeds for added flavor and presentation.

Serving Suggestions

15. These honey butter chicken tenders are perfect for a family dinner or a game day snack. Serve them alongside your favorite dipping sauces, such as ranch or barbecue sauce, and pair them with sides like coleslaw, fries, or a fresh garden salad. 16. If you have leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the air fryer for a few minutes to regain their crispiness.

Tips for Perfect Chicken Tenders

17. For the best results, use fresh chicken tenders rather than frozen. If you do use frozen, make sure they are fully thawed and patted dry before marinating. 18. Feel free to customize the spices in the marinade and coating to suit your taste. Adding cayenne pepper for heat or Italian seasoning for a different flavor profile can be fun! 19. If you want to make this dish gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure your cornmeal is also gluten-free. 20. Experiment with different types of honey, such as clover or wildflower, to see how it changes the flavor of the sauce

Conclusion:

In summary, the Air Fryer Honey Butter Chicken Tenders are an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their weeknight dinners or impress guests at a gathering. The combination of crispy, golden-brown chicken tenders with the sweet and savory honey butter glaze creates a flavor explosion that is simply irresistible. Plus, the air fryer makes this dish not only healthier but also incredibly easy to prepare, allowing you to enjoy a delicious meal without the fuss of traditional frying. For serving suggestions, consider pairing these tenders with a side of creamy coleslaw or a fresh garden salad to balance the sweetness of the honey butter. You can also serve them with a variety of dipping sauces, such as ranch or barbecue, to add an extra layer of flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding some spices to the honey butter glaze, like a pinch of cayenne for a kick or some garlic powder for an extra savory touch. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and experience the delightful crunch and mouthwatering taste for yourself. Once you do, I would love to hear about your experience! Share your thoughts, any variations you tried, or even a photo of your delicious creation. The Air Fryer Honey Butter Chicken Tenders are sure to become a favorite in your household, and I can’t wait to see how you make them your own!

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