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–+ servings
Ella Cooks

Crispy Honey Butter Chicken Tenders (15-Minute Air Fryer Fix!)

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There’s something deeply comforting about biting into a golden, crunchy chicken tender, especially when it’s glazed in warm honey butter with a pinch of spice. It’s the kind of nostalgic flavor that feels like childhood dinners but with a grown-up, sweet-savory upgrade. Whether you’re cooking for kids, picky eaters, or just treating yourself after a long day, this recipe delivers joy in every bite and you don’t even need to heat up the oven.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Calories: 360
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
For the Chicken Tenders:
  • 1 lb chicken tenders or boneless skinless chicken breasts sliced into strips
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 2 eggs beaten
  • Olive oil spray or neutral spray for air fryer
For the Honey Butter Glaze:
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper optional, for heat
  • Pinch of salt

Equipment

  • Air fryer (any model; basket-style works best)
  • Small saucepan (for honey butter glaze)
  • 2 shallow bowls (for dredging)
  • Tongs or fork
  • Cooking spray

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
    Step 1: Prep the Chicken
    1. Pat chicken tenders dry with a paper towel—this helps the coating stick better. If using chicken breasts, slice into strips about 1 inch thick.
    Step 2: Set Up the Dredging Station
    1. In one shallow bowl, combine flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. In a second bowl, beat the eggs. In a third bowl (or plate), pour the panko breadcrumbs.
    Step 3: Bread the Chicken
    1. Dip each chicken tender first into the flour, then the egg, and finally coat generously with panko. Press to ensure the crumbs adhere well.
    Step 4: Air Fry to Crispy Perfection
    1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 2–3 minutes.
    2. Spray the air fryer basket lightly with oil.
    3. Place chicken tenders in a single layer, giving them space.
    4. Air fry for 9–11 minutes, flipping halfway through. Spritz with more oil halfway for extra crispiness. They’re done when golden brown and the internal temp reaches 165°F.
    Step 5: Make the Honey Butter Glaze
    1. While the tenders are cooking, melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Add the honey, cayenne (if using), and a pinch of salt. Stir until smooth and warm.
    Step 6: Toss & Serve
    1. Once the chicken is done, drizzle or brush the honey butter glaze over the tenders while hot. You can also toss them gently in a bowl for an even coating.
    2. Serve immediately with ranch, a creamy dipping sauce, or even more warm honey.

    Nutrition

    Calories: 360kcalCarbohydrates: 26gProtein: 26gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 5g

    Notes

    Tips for the Best Chicken Tenders
    Double-dredge for extra crunch: Want an even crispier coating? Dip tenders back in egg and panko for a second layer.
    Glaze just before serving to avoid soggy breading.
    Spice it up with a pinch of cayenne or a dash of hot sauce in the glaze.
    Use gluten-free panko and flour for a GF version.
    Don’t crowd the air fryer—work in batches if needed so tenders crisp up properly.

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