Hot Honey Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

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Introduction

Did you know that air-fried chicken tenders can be 40% lower in calories than deep-fried versions—without sacrificing crunch? If you crave crispy, juicy chicken with a sweet-spicy kick, these Hot Honey Air Fryer Chicken Tenders are your new weeknight hero. Ready in just 20 minutes, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor with minimal oil and cleanup.

Unlike traditional fried tenders, this version uses the air fryer to achieve a golden, crunchy crust while keeping the inside tender. The hot honey glaze—a blend of honey, chili flakes, and garlic—adds a addictive balance of heat and sweetness. Whether you’re meal prepping or feeding picky eaters, this dish is a crowd-pleaser. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients List

Here’s what you’ll need for crispy, flavorful tenders:

For the Chicken Tenders:

• 1 lb chicken tenders (or boneless breasts sliced into strips)
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (for extra crunch; gluten-free if needed)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (adds umami depth)
• 1 tsp smoked paprika (for a smoky touch)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp salt & black pepper
• 2 eggs (whisked, for binding)
• 1 tbsp olive oil (or avocado oil spray)

For the Hot Honey Glaze:

• ¼ cup honey (or maple syrup for vegan)
• 1 tbsp hot sauce (like Sriracha or Frank’s)
• ½ tsp chili flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1 tbsp butter (or coconut oil for dairy-free)
• 1 garlic clove, minced

Substitutions:

• Keto? Use crushed pork rinds or almond flour instead of panko.
• Less spicy? Skip the chili flakes or reduce hot sauce.
• No Parmesan? Nutritional yeast adds a cheesy flavor.

Timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Faster Than Delivery: 3x quicker than waiting for takeout!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Coating

In a bowl, mix panko, Parmesan, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, whisk the eggs.

Pro Tip: For extra crunch, toast the panko in a dry skillet for 2 minutes before coating.

Step 2: Coat the Chicken

Dip each tender into the egg wash, then press into the panko mixture. Place on a plate and lightly spray with oil.

Pro Tip: Let coated tenders rest for 5 minutes to help the coating adhere.

Step 3: Air Fry

Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Arrange tenders in a single layer (work in batches if needed). Cook for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and internal temp reaches 165°F (74°C).

Step 4: Make the Hot Honey Glaze

While chicken cooks, melt butter in a saucepan. Add garlic, hot sauce, honey, and chili flakes. Simmer for 2 minutes until glossy.

Step 5: Glaze & Serve

Toss cooked tenders in the hot honey glaze or drizzle on top. Garnish with sesame seeds or chopped parsley.

Nutritional Information

(Per serving, serves 4)

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 28g
• Carbs: 22g
• Fat: 12g
• Fiber: 1g

Why It’s Healthier:

• Air frying cuts 70% of the oil vs. deep-frying.
• Panko-Parmesan crust adds crunch without heavy batter.

Healthier Alternatives

• Lower-Carb: Use almond flour/crushed pork rinds.
• Sugar-Free: Swap honey for sugar-free maple syrup.
• Extra Protein: Add a sprinkle of hemp seeds post-cooking.

Serving Suggestions

• Over salads (try arugula with lemon dressing).
• With dipping sauces (ranch, blue cheese, or yogurt-based).
• In wraps (with slaw and avocado).

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcrowding the air fryer (leads to soggy tenders).
• Skipping the preheat (uneven cooking).
• Over-glazing (can make coating soft).

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Air fry at 375°F for 3–4 minutes to restore crispiness.
• Freezer: Freeze unglazed tenders for up to 1 month.

Conclusion

These Hot Honey Air Fryer Chicken Tenders are the ultimate quick, crispy, and flavorful meal—perfect for busy nights or game-day snacks. The sweet-spicy glaze takes them to the next level!

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken tenders?

Yes! Thaw first, pat dry, and coat as directed.

2. How do I make them extra crispy?

Double-coat: Dip in egg → panko → egg → panko again.

3. Can I bake these instead?

Bake at 400°F for 15–20 mins on a greased rack.

4. Is the glaze very spicy?

Adjust heat by reducing chili flakes or hot sauce.

5. Best dip pairing?

Cooling dips like ranch or tzatziki balance the heat!

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