These Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders are the perfect combination of sweet, savory, and crispy. Ready in under 20 minutes, they make a fantastic weeknight dinner, meal prep option, or healthy alternative to fast food. The air fryer locks in moisture and flavor without the need for deep frying.
Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Chicken Recipe
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Healthier than deep-fried alternatives with less oil
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Family-friendly and kid-approved
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Made with pantry staples—no breading or marinating needed
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Perfect balance of sweet honey, savory garlic, and buttery richness
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Ready in under 25 minutes
Ingredients Breakdown:
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Chicken Tenders (1 lb / 450 g): Lean and tender, they cook quickly and soak up all that delicious honey-garlic flavor.
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Honey (¼ cup): Brings a natural sweetness and helps create a sticky glaze.
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Unsalted Butter, Melted (2 tbsp): Adds richness and helps caramelize the coating.
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Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Delivers bold, aromatic flavor.
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Paprika (½ tsp, optional): Adds mild heat and color.
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Salt and Pepper: Essential seasoning to balance the sweet and savory elements.
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Lemon Juice (1 tsp, optional): Cuts through the sweetness with a bit of brightness.
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Olive Oil Spray: Keeps the tenders from sticking to the air fryer and helps crisp them up.
Tips and Tricks
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Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is cooked perfectly every time.
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Avoid overcrowding the basket to maintain crispiness.
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Make it spicy by adding chili flakes or hot sauce to the glaze.
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Double the sauce and use it as a dip or drizzle.
Flavor Variations
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Asian-Inspired: Add a splash of soy sauce and grated ginger to the glaze.
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Buffalo Style: Swap honey for hot sauce and butter for a spicy twist.
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Lemon Herb: Omit honey and add Italian seasoning with extra lemon juice.
Best Serving Suggestions
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Pair with garlic mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or coleslaw.
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Serve on top of rice or a salad for a balanced lunch.
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Perfect as an appetizer with ranch or blue cheese dip.
Storage Instructions
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Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
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Reheat: Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 4–5 minutes or until warmed through.
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Freeze: Flash freeze on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag. Reheat directly in the air fryer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken breasts or thighs instead of tenders?
Yes. Just cut them into strips and adjust cook time slightly based on thickness.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as your seasonings and sauces are certified gluten-free.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely. Prepare the sauce and coat the chicken, then refrigerate until ready to cook.