chicken tenders in air fryer recipe
The Best chicken tenders in air fryer recipe
Chicken tenders made in the air fryer are one of those simple, foolproof recipes that always come together the same way every time. I’ve been cooking this way for years, and there’s nothing like the crispy, golden-brown exterior with a tender inside that just melts in your mouth. My kids—well, let’s just say they’re picky eaters, but once they try these, they’re hooked. They’re quick, easy, and require almost no cleanup, which is a huge plus when you’ve got a family that moves fast. Plus, you can prep them ahead of time and toss them in the air fryer right before serving, so you’re not stuck with a big batch of raw chicken sitting around.
These tenders are perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner, a game night with friends, or even a special family gathering. They’re versatile enough to be served with ketchup, honey mustard, or a simple yogurt dip, but they’re also great on their own. My husband and I love that they’re healthier than deep-fried versions because they use minimal oil, and the air fryer gets them crispy without all the excess grease. Plus, kids actually enjoy eating them because they’re not soggy or heavy, which is a game-changer when you’re trying to get them to eat anything but mac and cheese. It’s a recipe that’s always a hit, no matter how often you make it.
Air Fryer Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders
Crispy, juicy chicken tenders coated in a sweet and savory honey garlic glaze, perfectly cooked in the air fryer for a healthier takeout-style meal. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.
🥘Ingredients
- 8 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch strips
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 3 tbsp honey
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
👨🍳Directions
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1 Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper if desired for easy cleanup.
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2 In a shallow bowl, mix flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
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3 In another bowl, combine honey, soy sauce, ketchup, minced garlic, olive oil, and Dijon mustard. Set aside.
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4 Dip each chicken strip into the glaze, coating evenly. Then, dredge in the flour mixture, pressing lightly to adhere.
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5 Place the coated chicken tenders in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they don’t overlap. Air fry for 8 minutes.
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6 Flip the tenders and air fry for another 4 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C).
🔧Equipment
- Air fryer
- Mixing bowls
- Baking sheet (optional, for extra crispiness)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
- Spatula
- Paper towels
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Air Fryer Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders Works
Chicken tenders cooked in the air fryer come out crispy and juicy every single time, making them a perfect pick for quick family dinners or last-minute gatherings. Whether it’s a weeknight when everyone’s tired or a holiday spread where you need something easy yet impressive, these tenders are foolproof—they don’t dry out, they’re fast, and they always taste better than store-bought. Plus, serving them with a simple dipping sauce keeps things simple, so you’re not stuck stressing over complicated sides. It’s the kind of recipe that works for every occasion without needing a lot of fuss.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Air Fryer Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders
1. What is the best oil to use when air frying chicken tenders for optimal crispiness?
The best oils for air frying chicken tenders to achieve maximum crispiness are avocado oil, vegetable oil, or peanut oil. These oils have high smoke points (around 450°F/232°C) and help create a golden, crunchy exterior without burning. Avoid lighter oils like canola or olive oil, as they may break down too quickly at high temperatures.
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2. How long should I cook chicken tenders in the air fryer for perfect results?
For regular chicken tenders, cook at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through. For thicker or breaded tenders, increase time to 12–15 minutes. Check doneness by ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part. Overcrowding the basket reduces crispiness, so cook in batches if needed.
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3. Can I use frozen chicken tenders in the air fryer, and if so, how do I adjust the cooking time?
Yes! Frozen chicken tenders work perfectly in the air fryer. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and cook for 12–15 minutes, shaking the basket every 5 minutes for even cooking. If they’re still slightly underdone, add 1–2 minutes at the end. Avoid thawing first—this can make them soggy.
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4. What’s the secret to making crispy air fryer chicken tenders without extra oil?
The key is double-dredging and using a light coating of oil (just enough to lightly coat the tenders). Here’s how: – First dredge: Dip tenders in beaten egg, then coat in 1–2 tbsp flour (or breadcrumbs). – Second dredge: Toss in 1 tsp oil + 1 tbsp flour (or breadcrumbs) for extra crispiness. – Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes, shaking halfway. For extra crunch, sprinkle with panko or crushed cornflakes before frying.
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5. Can I add marinades or sauces to chicken tenders after air frying, and how do they affect crispiness?
Yes! You can brush on marinades or sauces after cooking, but avoid heavy glaze applications directly on the tenders before frying—this can prevent crispiness. Instead: – Lightly coat with a marinade (like honey mustard or BBQ) right after air frying for 1–2 minutes. – For saucy tenders, use thin, flavorful sauces (e.g., teriyaki, garlic aioli) and serve on the side. – Overcoating with sauce before frying can make them steamed instead of crispy. If you want extra crispiness, bake the tenders first, then add sauce.
