Air Fryer Honey BBQ Chicken Tenders Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a dish that’s bursting with flavor, crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and coated in a perfectly balanced sweet and smoky glaze, then these Air Fryer Honey BBQ Chicken Tenders are calling your name. This recipe takes the humble chicken tender to a whole new level by combining a golden, crunchy coating with a sticky, finger-licking sauce that’s as satisfying as it is simple. Whether you’re whipping them up for a quick weeknight dinner, a party appetizer, or just because, these tenders are sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering straightforward ingredients is the first step to nailing these tasty Air Fryer Honey BBQ Chicken Tenders. Each element plays an essential role, from the crispy breading that delivers crunch to the honey BBQ glaze that brings the dish together with a kick of sweetness and tang.

• Chicken tenders (1½ pounds): Choose fresh or thawed tenders for the perfect protein base with tender juiciness.
• All-purpose flour (1 cup): This creates the first coating layer to help the breading stick and develop a crispy shell.
• Large eggs, beaten (2): Eggs act as the sticky binder ensuring the breadcrumbs adhere uniformly for extra crunch.
• Breadcrumbs (1 cup): Use plain or seasoned for that golden, crunchy texture that makes each bite so satisfying.
• Salt and pepper, to taste: Simple seasoning to enhance the natural flavors of the chicken and the coating.
• Garlic powder (½ teaspoon + ½ teaspoon): Adds a subtle, savory depth within both the breading and the sauce.
• Onion powder (½ teaspoon + ½ teaspoon): Provides a mild sweetness that complements the overall flavor profile beautifully.
• Smoked paprika (½ teaspoon): Infuses a gentle smoky warmth that pairs perfectly with the BBQ sauce.
• BBQ sauce (½ cup): The heart of the glaze, delivering bold, tangy, and smoky notes.
• Honey (¼ cup): Balances the BBQ sauce with natural sweetness, helping to create that irresistible sticky coating.
• Apple cider vinegar (1 tablespoon): Adds a hint of acidity to brighten the sauce and cut through the richness.

How to Make Air Fryer Honey BBQ Chicken Tenders

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Start by patting your chicken tenders dry with paper towels. This extra step is crucial to ensure the coating sticks well. If using chicken breasts, slice them into strips about the size of tenders for consistent cooking.

Step 2: Season and Dredge

Mix the flour with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika in a shallow dish. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs. Then, place the breadcrumbs in a third dish. Coat each tender first in the flour mixture, then dip it into the egg, and finally press it firmly into the breadcrumbs. This triple-layer approach guarantees an extra crisp and flavorful crust once cooked.

Step 3: Air Frying the Tenders

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for a few minutes. Arrange the tenders in a single layer in the basket without overcrowding to allow even air circulation. Cook them for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the coating is golden and crisp, and the chicken is thoroughly cooked.

Step 4: Prepare the Honey BBQ Sauce

While the tenders cook, whisk together the BBQ sauce, honey, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, and onion powder in a small bowl. This sauce is the magic ingredient that brings the perfect sweet and smoky contrast to your crispy tenders.

Step 5: Toss and Glaze

Once the tenders come out of the air fryer, immediately toss them in the warm honey BBQ sauce to ensure every bite is sticky and flavorful. Serve while hot to savor that delightful combination of crisp crust and saucy tenderness.

How to Serve Air Fryer Honey BBQ Chicken Tenders

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or cilantro adds a refreshing pop of color and a hint of brightness that complements the rich sauce. For an extra punch, a little drizzle of ranch or blue cheese dressing on the side offers a cooling contrast to the sweet heat of the BBQ glaze.

Side Dishes

The best Air Fryer Honey BBQ Chicken Tenders pair beautifully with crunchy coleslaw, creamy mac and cheese, or crispy sweet potato fries. Pick your favorite sides that balance textures and tones to create a well-rounded meal everyone will enjoy.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve these tenders as sliders with pickles and lettuce on mini buns or chop them up to top a fresh garden salad for a protein-packed lunch. They also shine as snacks paired with dipping bowls featuring the leftover honey BBQ sauce or spicy aioli for guests to customize their bites.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover honey BBQ chicken tenders in an airtight container and refrigerate them. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days, making them a perfect option for quick meals or snacks throughout the week.

Freezing

If you want to save some tenders for later, freeze them on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Properly stored, they will keep their flavor and texture for up to 2 months.

Reheating

To reheat, use your air fryer again at 350°F (175°C) for 4-5 minutes to bring back the crispiness without drying out the chicken. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the coating soggy.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?

Absolutely! Just slice your chicken breasts into strips similar in size to tenders so they cook evenly and maintain that irresistible tender texture.

What’s the best type of breadcrumb to use?

Panko breadcrumbs work wonderfully because of their light, airy texture, resulting in an ultra-crispy coating. But regular breadcrumbs can work fine too if that’s what you have on hand.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, simply swap the all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives, such as almond flour or gluten-free panko, to enjoy a safe and delicious dish.

How spicy is this recipe?

The Air Fryer Honey BBQ Chicken Tenders are more sweet and smoky than spicy, but if you want some heat, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the flour mixture or mix some hot sauce into the BBQ glaze.

Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?

Definitely! The honey BBQ sauce can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge. Just give it a good stir before tossing it with your freshly cooked tenders.

Final Thoughts

These Air Fryer Honey BBQ Chicken Tenders are a fantastic combination of ease and irresistible flavor that’s perfect anytime you crave something crispy, saucy, and packed with personality. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and watch it become one of your go-to favorites to share with family and friends. Happy cooking!

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