Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders
Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders
Introduction
Are you craving a delicious and crispy chicken tender recipe that’s easy to make? Look no further! These Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders are the perfect combination of sweet and savory, with a crispy outer coating that will leave you wanting more.
Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a party, these chicken tenders are sure to be a hit. They’re quick to make, require minimal ingredients, and are packed with flavor. Plus, with the help of an air fryer, you can achieve that perfect crunchy texture without the need for deep frying.
Not only are these chicken tenders delicious, but they’re also a healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken. By using an air fryer, you can significantly reduce the amount of oil needed, making this recipe a guilt-free indulgence. So, let’s dive in and learn how to make these mouthwatering chicken tenders!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are several reasons why you’ll fall in love with these Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders:
1. Crispy and flavorful: The air fryer ensures that the chicken tenders come out perfectly crispy on the outside while remaining juicy and tender on the inside. The combination of honey, butter, and garlic adds a burst of flavor that will keep you coming back for more.
2. Quick and easy: This recipe requires just a few simple steps and minimal prep time. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
3. Customizable: Feel free to adjust the seasonings according to your taste preferences. You can add a bit of heat with some cayenne pepper or experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own unique flavor profile.
4. Healthier alternative: By using an air fryer, you can enjoy crispy chicken tenders without the excessive oil and calories associated with deep frying. It’s a guilt-free way to satisfy your fried chicken cravings.
Ingredients
For the chicken tenders:
- 1 pound chicken tenders
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the honey butter garlic sauce:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Note: Feel free to adjust the quantities of the ingredients based on the number of servings you need.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
3. Dip each chicken tender into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the breadcrumbs adhere to the chicken.
4. Place the breaded chicken tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not touching each other. You may need to cook them in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
5. Cook the chicken tenders in the air fryer for 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning.
6. While the chicken tenders are cooking, prepare the honey butter garlic sauce. In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, honey, minced garlic, dried parsley, and salt. Mix well.
7. Once the chicken tenders are cooked, remove them from the air fryer and place them on a serving platter.
8. Drizzle the honey butter garlic sauce over the chicken tenders, or serve it on the side as a dipping sauce.
9. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.
10. Serve the Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders immediately and enjoy!
Expert Tips for Success
1. To achieve maximum crispiness, it’s important to preheat your air fryer before cooking the chicken tenders.
2. Make sure to coat the chicken tenders evenly with the breadcrumb mixture to ensure a crispy coating.
3. If you prefer a spicier flavor, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or your favorite hot sauce to the breadcrumb mixture.
4. Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. Cook the chicken tenders in a single layer, leaving enough space between them for the hot air to circulate.
5. If you don’t have an air fryer, you can also bake the chicken tenders in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for approximately 15-20 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Variations and Substitutions
1. Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers instead of regular breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free.
2. Dairy-free option: Replace the grated Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast or a dairy-free cheese alternative.
3. Flavor variations: Experiment with different seasonings and spices to customize the flavor of the chicken tenders. Try adding smoked paprika, dried herbs, or a sprinkle of lemon zest for a citrusy twist.
4. Sauce variations: If you prefer a tangy flavor, you can add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a splash of apple cider vinegar to the honey butter garlic sauce.
Serving Suggestions
These Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders are delicious on their own, but they can also be served with various side dishes and accompaniments:
1. Classic side dishes: Serve the chicken tenders with your favorite sides, such as french fries, coleslaw, or a green salad.
2. Dipping sauces: In addition to the honey butter garlic sauce, you can offer a variety of dipping sauces, such as barbecue sauce, ranch dressing, or sweet chili sauce.
3. Sandwiches or wraps: Use the chicken tenders as a filling for sandwiches or wraps. Add some lettuce, tomato slices, and your favorite condiments for a satisfying meal.
FAQs
Q: Can I use chicken breast instead of chicken tenders?
A: Yes, you can use chicken breast instead of chicken tenders. Simply cut the chicken breast into strips or use chicken cutlets and adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Q: Can I make these chicken tenders ahead of time?
A: While these chicken tenders are best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the breadcrumb mixture and coat the chicken tenders in advance. Store the coated chicken tenders in the refrigerator until ready to cook, then proceed with the recipe as directed.
Q: Can I freeze these chicken tenders?
A: Yes, you can freeze these chicken tenders for later use. After cooking and cooling them, place them in an airtight container or freezer bag and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, preheat your air fryer and cook the frozen chicken tenders at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes, or until heated through.
Final Thoughts
These Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders are a delightful combination of crispy, flavorful, and easy-to-make. With the help of an air fryer, you can achieve that perfect golden-brown coating without the need for excessive oil. Whether you’re serving them as a main course, appetizer, or party snack, these chicken tenders are sure to impress your family and friends.
So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your air fryer, and get ready to enjoy a plate of delicious homemade chicken tenders that are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Give this recipe a try, and let your taste buds experience the magic of Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders!
Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders
Crispy chicken tenders coated in a honey butter garlic sauce, made with minimal ingredients and cooked in an air fryer for a healthier alternative to fried chicken.
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken tenders
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Directions
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper in a shallow bowl.
- Coat each chicken tender with the breadcrumb mixture.
- Place breaded chicken tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket and cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Mix melted butter, honey, minced garlic, parsley, and salt to make the sauce.
- Drizzle the honey butter garlic sauce over cooked chicken tenders or use it as a dipping sauce.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.