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How to Make Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders in the Air Fryer
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels.
- Set up a dredging station:
- In one bowl, combine flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- In another bowl, place the beaten egg.
- In a third bowl, place the panko breadcrumbs.
- Coat each chicken tender in the flour mixture, dip it into the egg, and then coat it in panko breadcrumbs, pressing lightly to adhere.
Step 2: Air Fry the Tenders
- Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Place the tenders in a single layer, ensuring they don’t overlap. Spray the tops with cooking spray for extra crispiness.
- Air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the tenders are golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Step 3: Make the Honey Garlic Sauce
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine honey, soy sauce, and minced garlic.
- Stir and bring to a gentle simmer. Add butter and stir until melted.
- For a thicker sauce, dissolve cornstarch in a tablespoon of water and stir it into the sauce. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 4: Coat the Tenders
- Toss the cooked chicken tenders in the honey garlic sauce until evenly coated.
- Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Serving Suggestions
- As a Main Dish: Pair with steamed rice and roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
- As an Appetizer: Serve with extra dipping sauce for a crowd-pleasing starter.
- As a Snack: These tenders are perfect for game days or casual gatherings.
Tips for Success
- Don’t Overcrowd the Air Fryer: Cook in batches if necessary to ensure even crisping.
- Adjust Sweetness: Add a splash of lemon juice to balance the honey’s sweetness if desired.
- Double the Sauce: For extra dipping or drizzling, double the sauce recipe.
- Customize the Coating: Add Parmesan or herbs to the breadcrumb mixture for added flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Sweet & Savory Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders are a perfect combination of crispy, juicy, and flavorful. The air fryer makes them lighter than traditional fried tenders, while the honey garlic glaze adds an addictive sweet and savory twist.
Once you try these, they’re sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation—simple to make, endlessly versatile, and absolutely delicious!
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