Craving crispy, juicy chicken tenders without the guilt of deep frying?These Air Fryer Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders strike an ideal balance between crispy texture and bold flavor, all while offering a healthier, faster cooking method. With the magic of the air fryer, you can achieve that golden-brown exterior and tender interior in just minutes.Tossed in a sweet and savory honey garlic glaze, these tenders are sure to become a household favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Healthier Alternative: Uses less oil than traditional frying methods.
- Bursting with Flavor: The honey garlic glaze brings a rich combination of sweet and savory notes.
- Kid-Friendly: A hit with both kids and adults alike.
- Versatile: Great as a main dish, appetizer, or even in wraps and salads.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Tenders:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into tender strips
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cups corn flakes, crushed
For the Honey Garlic Sauce:
- 2 tbsp honey
- 4 tsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp minced garlic
How to Make Air Fryer Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders
- Season the Chicken: Sprinkle the chicken strips with paprika, salt, and pepper for added flavor.
- Create a Breading Station: Beat the eggs in one bowl and prepare another with crushed cornflakes.
- Bread the Chicken: Dip each chicken strip into the egg mixture, then coat with crushed corn flakes, pressing gently to adhere.
- Cook: Air fry the tenders at 350°F (175°C) for 12 minutes or until they’re golden and fully cooked.
- Mix the Sauce: As the chicken cooks, combine honey, soy sauce, and minced garlic in a bowl and whisk until smooth.
- Glaze the Chicken: Once the chicken tenders are cooked, toss them in the honey garlic sauce until well coated.
- Serve and Enjoy: Plate the glazed tenders warm, and optionally top with chopped green onions or sesame seeds.
Helpful Tips
- Preheat the Air Fryer: For even cooking, preheat your air fryer for a few minutes before adding the chicken.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Arrange tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: Ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Customize the Sauce: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or a splash of lime juice for tanginess.
Substitutions and Variations
- Chicken: Use chicken tenders or thighs instead of breasts.
- Breading: Substitute corn flakes with panko breadcrumbs or crushed crackers.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free corn flakes and tamari instead of soy sauce.
- Vegan Option: Replace chicken with tofu strips and use maple syrup instead of honey.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen chicken? Yes, but ensure it’s fully thawed before breading and cooking for even results.
How do I store leftovers? Let tenders cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I bake these instead of air frying? Absolutely. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Reheat in the air fryer for best results.
Conclusion
These Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders made in the air fryer are a total win for fast, flavorful meals.Thanks to their crunchy coating and irresistible glaze, they’re bound to be a favorite at the table.Try this recipe today—then share your results and check out more delicious air fryer ideas!
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Air Fryer Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders
- Total Time: 17 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
Description
Air Fryer Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders are crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and coated in a flavorful honey garlic glaze. Made in minutes, this recipe is perfect for quick weeknight dinners or kid-friendly meals. Try it today!
Ingredients
For the Chicken Tenders:
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips
1 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 large eggs
2 cups corn flakes, crushed
For the Honey Garlic Sauce:
2 tbsp honey
4 tsp soy sauce
1 tsp minced garlic
Instructions
- Season the Chicken: Sprinkle the chicken strips with paprika, salt, and pepper for added flavor.
- Create a Breading Station: Beat the eggs in one bowl and prepare another with crushed cornflakes.
- Bread the Chicken: Dip each chicken strip into the egg mixture, then coat with crushed corn flakes, pressing gently to adhere.
- Cook: Air fry the tenders at 350°F (175°C) for 12 minutes or until they’re golden and fully cooked.
- Mix the Sauce: As the chicken cooks, combine honey, soy sauce, and minced garlic in a bowl and whisk until smooth.
- Glaze the Chicken: Once the chicken tenders are cooked, toss them in the honey garlic sauce until well coated.
- Serve and Enjoy: Plate the glazed tenders warm, and optionally top with chopped green onions or sesame seeds.
Notes
Preheat your air fryer for best results.
Don’t overcrowd the basket—cook in batches if needed.
For extra crunch, press the corn flakes firmly onto the chicken.
Make it spicy by adding red pepper flakes to the sauce.
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (½ recipe)
- Calories: 368 kcal
- Sugar: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Protein: 35g