Introduction
Welcome to a delicious adventure that combines the irresistible crunch of chicken tenders with a rich, flavorful honey butter garlic sauce. These Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders are sure to become a family favorite, offering a delightful balance of savory and sweet that will have everyone coming back for more. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering with friends, these tenders are not just quick to make but also packed with flavor. Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken tenders
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Cooking spray
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 27 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Start by preparing your seasoned flour mixture. In a shallow bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, salt, black pepper, paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder. This will create a delicious base for your chicken tenders.
- In a separate bowl, beat the egg until it’s nice and frothy. This will help the breadcrumbs adhere beautifully to the chicken.
- In a third bowl, pour in the breadcrumbs, setting up your assembly line for easy coating.
- Take each chicken tender and dip it into the flour mixture, making sure to shake off any excess flour.
- Next, dip the floured chicken tender into the beaten egg, allowing any extra to drip off back into the bowl.
- Finally, coat the chicken tender in the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to make sure each piece is fully covered with that crunchy goodness.
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C), getting it ready for that perfect crisp.
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent any sticking.
- Arrange the chicken tenders in a single layer in the basket, taking care not to overcrowd them to ensure even cooking.
- Cook the tenders for 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through. They should come out golden brown and cooked through.
- While the chicken is cooking, whisk together the melted butter, honey, and minced garlic in a small bowl to create your luscious honey butter garlic sauce.
- Once the chicken tenders are cooked to perfection, drizzle the honey butter garlic sauce generously over them just before serving, allowing that warm, fragrant glaze to soak in.
Notes or Tips
- For a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the flour mixture.
- Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices in the coating for a unique flavor twist.
- These tenders can be paired with a variety of dipping sauces for an even more delightful experience.
Cooking Techniques
The air fryer is a fantastic tool for achieving that desired crispy texture without the excess oil. It circulates hot air around the food, cooking it evenly and enhancing the deliciousness of your chicken tenders. Remember to flip them halfway through cooking for that perfect golden crust on all sides.
FAQ
- Can I use frozen chicken tenders? Yes, but be sure to adjust the cooking time, as they may take a bit longer to cook through.
- What can I serve with these chicken tenders? They pair beautifully with a fresh side salad, dipping sauces, or even on a bun for a delicious sandwich!
Conclusion
These Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders are not just a meal; they are a warm, comforting experience that brings joy to your palate. With their delightful crunch and inviting flavors, they are sure to be a hit at your dinner table. So gather your loved ones, serve these tasty tenders, and savor every bite. Happy cooking!