On a particularly busy day, when the dinner clock was ticking and I craved something that felt both comforting and indulgent, I decided to take matters into my own hands. Enter Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders Air Fryer style—a dish that combines the crunch of corn flakes with a sweet and savory glaze that tantalizes the taste buds. There’s something incredibly satisfying about biting into a tender piece of chicken, perfectly crisped and infused with the rich flavors of garlic and honey.
As I whipped these up, I remembered how quick and simple homemade meals can truly be, especially when you have an air fryer at your fingertips. With just a handful of everyday ingredients, including chicken, honey, and a dusting of spices, I turned what could’ve been another fast-food evening into a delightful culinary experience. Perfect for a family meal or entertaining friends, these chicken tenders bring a burst of flavor that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Ready to elevate your weeknight dinners? Let’s get cooking!
Why are Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders Air Fryer a must-try?
Crispy texture: Enjoy the satisfying crunch from the cornflakes, giving each bite a delightful snap.
Sweet and savory sauce: The honey garlic glaze perfectly complements the chicken’s crispy exterior, creating a mouthwatering flavor explosion.
Quick and easy: With minimal prep, these tenders come together effortlessly, making them perfect for busy weeknights.
Versatile dish: Serve them as a main course, in a wrap, or atop a salad for a flavorful meal any way you choose!
Family-approved: This recipe is a surefire hit with both kids and adults, ensuring everyone leaves the table happy and satisfied.
Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders Air Fryer Ingredients
For the Chicken Tenders
- 1 lb chicken tenders – Choose boneless tenders for easy cooking and tenderness.
- 2 chicken breasts cut into strips – For a juicy alternative, use breast meat for extra flavor.
- 3 eggs – Eggs act as a binder, helping the coating stick to the chicken.
For the Coating
- 2 cups corn flakes – These provide a crispy texture, making your chicken tenders irresistible.
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder – Garlic powder adds a punch of flavor that enhances every bite.
- 1 teaspoon paprika – It brings warmth and a touch of smokiness to the dish.
- ½ teaspoon salt – Essential for seasoning and elevating flavors.
- ½ teaspoon pepper – A pinch of pepper adds a slight kick to the mixture.
For the Honey Garlic Sauce
- 3 tablespoon salted butter – Butter enriches the sauce and adds a creamy texture.
- 3 tablespoon honey – Sweetness from honey balances the garlic’s richness in the glaze.
- 2 tablespoon minced garlic – Fresh garlic gives the sauce a wonderful aromatic quality.
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce – Soy sauce adds an umami depth, rounding out the flavor profile.
Now that we’ve got all our ingredients ready, let’s transform these humble pantry staples into the delightfully crispy Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders Air Fryer style!
How to Make Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders Air Fryer
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Preheat your air fryer to 400°F. This ensures that your chicken tenders will cook evenly and achieve that perfect crispiness you’re looking for.
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Prepare the coating by combining corn flakes, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Mix well until all the spices are evenly distributed in the flakes for full flavor.
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Dip each chicken tender into the eggs, allowing any excess to drip off. This step is crucial for helping the corn flake mixture adhere to the chicken for a crispy crust.
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Coat the egg-dipped chicken in the corn flake mixture, pressing gently to ensure an even coating. This is where they get their signature crunch!
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Arrange the coated chicken tenders in a single layer in your preheated air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding to allow proper airflow, which helps achieve that golden brown texture.
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Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. You’re looking for an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
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Make the honey garlic sauce by melting butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the honey, minced garlic, and soy sauce, stirring until combined and warm. This sauce will take your tenders to another level!
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Serve the chicken tenders hot, drizzled generously with the honey garlic sauce. Pair with your favorite dipping sauce for a delightful meal!
Optional: Sprinkle sesame seeds on top for an extra touch of flavor and crunch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Storage Tips for Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders
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Room Temperature: Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders should not be left out for more than 2 hours to prevent bacterial growth.
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Fridge: Store leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer for a crispy texture.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked chicken tenders in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag once firm. They can last up to 3 months.
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Reheating: To retain crispiness, reheat frozen tenders in the air fryer at 375°F for about 10-12 minutes. Enjoy the deliciousness of your Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders again!
Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders Air Fryer Variations
Feel free to get creative and put your own twist on these delightful chicken tenders!
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Spicy Kick: Add 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the corn flake mixture for a fiery version that will tantalize your taste buds. For those who love a bit of heat, this spice brings a fun twist!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute corn flakes with gluten-free breadcrumbs for the coating to make these tenders suitable for gluten-sensitive eaters. Enjoy the same crunch and flavor without the gluten!
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Herb-Infused: Mix in dried herbs like oregano or thyme with the corn flake coating for added earthy notes. Herbs can elevate the dish and provide a fresh taste that complements the garlic perfectly.
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Parmesan Twist: Incorporate 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese into the corn flake mixture for a cheesy, savory flavor. This adds irresistible richness and depth that cheese lovers will adore.
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Honey Soy Glaze: Reduce the sauce ingredients, adding a touch more soy sauce to create a glaze that evenly coats the chicken tenders. This variation offers a bolder umami flavor profile for a fusion twist!
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Crispy Oven Method: If you don’t have an air fryer, bake at 425°F for 20 minutes for the same crispiness without frying. This keeps things simple and allows you to make a larger batch at once.
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Sweet Maple Flavors: Swap honey with maple syrup in the sauce for a unique, sweeter flavor that’s perfect for breakfast-style dinners. It’s an unexpected delight that brings warmth to your meal!
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Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with firm tofu cut into strips for a delicious vegetarian alternative while retaining the same cooking technique. The sauce can infuse the tofu with wonderful flavor, making it a satisfying dish!
Make Ahead Options
These Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders Air Fryer are a fantastic choice for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a homemade meal without the last-minute rush! You can prep the chicken tenders by coating them in the corn flake mixture up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the initial steps, then place the coated tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their crispiness. When you’re ready to cook, just preheat your air fryer and pop them in for 10-12 minutes as directed. This approach not only saves you time but ensures that your weeknight dinner is just as delicious as if you made it from scratch!
Expert Tips for Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh chicken and garlic to maximize flavor. Stale ingredients can dull the taste of your Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders.
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Preheat Properly: Ensure your air fryer is fully preheated to 400°F before adding the chicken. This helps achieve that perfect crispy coating.
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Mind the Coating: Don’t rush the coating process. Make sure the corn flake mixture adheres well by pressing it onto the chicken. This prevents the coating from falling off during cooking.
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Avoid Overcrowding: Give your chicken tenders room in the air fryer basket. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking, so cook in batches if necessary for optimal crispiness.
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Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to confirm your chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F. This ensures your Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders are both safe and delicious!
What to Serve with Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders Air Fryer?
Elevate your dining experience with these delightful pairings that complement the sweet and savory flavors of your chicken.
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Crispy French Fries: The classic pairing offers a satisfying crunch that mirrors the chicken’s texture while balancing its rich flavors.
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Steamed Broccoli: Bright green and vibrant, steamed broccoli adds a pop of freshness and a healthy crunch that livens up the plate.
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Honey-Mustard Dipping Sauce: This tangy sauce amplifies the sweetness of the dish, perfect for those who love an extra dip.
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Coleslaw: A creamy slaw adds creaminess and a splash of acidity, cutting through the richness of the tenders for a refreshing contrast.
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Garlic Bread: Indulge in the warmth of garlic bread; its buttery touches make each bite delightful and just right for soaking up any sauce.
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Crispy Wontons: These crunchy bites add an unexpected twist, bringing in a fun texture and complementing the honey garlic glaze beautifully.
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Apple Cider: A chilled glass of apple cider offers a sweet, tangy note that pairs perfectly with the savory undertones of the meal.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: For a sweet finale, warm cookies provide the ultimate comfort dessert that everyone loves, leaving a lasting impression.
Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders Air Fryer Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting chicken for my Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders?
Absolutely! For the best results, choose fresh, lean chicken tenders or breast strips. Look for pieces that are pink, moist, and free of any dark spots or unusual odors. Farm-raised chicken tends to be more flavorful and tender, which is perfect for this recipe.
How should I store leftover Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders?
Very! If you have any leftovers, place them in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Allow them to cool completely before sealing to avoid condensation. Reheat in your air fryer for about 5–7 minutes at 375°F to restore that crispy texture.
Can I freeze my Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders?
Absolutely! To freeze, first allow the cooked chicken tenders to cool completely. Next, lay them out in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until they’re firm, usually about 2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag, pressing out as much air as possible. They’ll be good for up to 3 months! When ready to enjoy again, reheat them in the air fryer at 375°F for about 10-12 minutes until heated through.
What can I do if my coating doesn’t stick properly?
Sometimes, the coating might not adhere as expected, which can be frustrating. To troubleshoot this, make sure you’re fully coating each piece of chicken in the egg wash and pressing the corn flake mixture firmly onto the chicken. If you find that it still isn’t sticking, try adding a little extra garlic powder to enhance flavor, or make sure your egg wash isn’t too runny. Also, ensure your air fryer is preheated sufficiently for optimal results.
Are these Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Very! To make this dish gluten-free, substitute traditional corn flakes with gluten-free corn flakes or panko breadcrumbs. Additionally, make sure soy sauce is replaced with a gluten-free soy sauce alternative. Just double-check the other ingredients for any hidden gluten, and you’ll have a delicious, safe meal for gluten-sensitive guests!
Can I make a healthier version of these chicken tenders?
Certainly! For a healthier twist, you could use whole-grain cereal or crushed oats instead of corn flakes for the coating. Additionally, baking the tenders in the oven instead of air frying can reduce overall calories. You can also opt for a lower-sodium soy sauce to make a lighter honey garlic sauce. Experimenting makes cooking more exciting!
Air Fryer Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders Crispy Delight!
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F.
- Prepare the coating by combining corn flakes, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.
- Dip each chicken tender into the eggs, allowing any excess to drip off.
- Coat the egg-dipped chicken in the corn flake mixture, pressing gently to ensure an even coating.
- Arrange the coated chicken tenders in a single layer in your preheated air fryer basket.
- Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.
- Make the honey garlic sauce by melting butter in a small saucepan over medium heat, adding honey, minced garlic, and soy sauce.
- Serve the chicken tenders hot, drizzled with the honey garlic sauce.