Crispy Honey Butter Chicken Tenders (15-Minute Air Fryer Fix!)
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.
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
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
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
- 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
- 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
- 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
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 2–3 minutes.
- Spray the air fryer basket lightly with oil.
- Place chicken tenders in a single layer, giving them space.
- 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
- 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
- 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.
- Serve immediately with ranch, a creamy dipping sauce, or even more warm honey.
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.
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.
Nutrition
Calories: 360kcalCarbohydrates: 26gProtein: 26gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 5g
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
