1 Delicious Air Fryer Honey BBQ Chicken Tenders You’ll Love!

Air Fryer Honey BBQ Chicken Tenders : do you ever find yourself in need of a quick, tasty meal that everyone in the family will love? If the answer is yes, look no further than these Air Fryer Honey BBQ Chicken Tenders! My kids affectionately refer to them as “magic sticks,” and I completely understand why. They’re crunchy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and simply disappear in seconds. Whether it’s for a family dinner, game night, or just when those sudden cravings hit, these chicken tenders are the perfect solution.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

There are countless reasons to love this recipe. First and foremost, the sweet and tangy flavor of honey BBQ sauce creates a delicious combination that pleases both kids and adults. It’s a dish that is not only easy to prepare but also fun to eat. The air fryer method cooks the chicken tenders to perfection, giving them a satisfying crunch without all the extra oil. This means you can enjoy a guilty pleasure without feeling too guilty! Plus, making them at home saves time and money compared to ordering takeout.

Another great advantage is the versatility of these tenders. They can be served in various ways, making them perfect for any occasion. You can plate them for a sit-down dinner, put them in a wrap for a quick lunch, or set them out as finger food for a party. Turn cooking into a family activity by having your kids help create their “magic sticks.” All in all, these Air Fryer Honey BBQ Chicken Tenders will become a favorite in your household!

How to Prepare Air Fryer Honey BBQ Chicken Tenders

Preparing these chicken tenders is easy! You’ll find that the process is simple and not time-consuming, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Below, you will find everything you need to know to make the best Air Fryer Honey BBQ Chicken Tenders at home.

Ingredients:

To make Air Fryer Honey BBQ Chicken Tenders, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 pound of chicken tenders
• 1 cup of breadcrumbs (you can use panko for extra crunch)
• 1/2 cup of honey
• 1/2 cup of BBQ sauce
• 2 eggs
• 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon of onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooking spray or olive oil spray for the air fryer

Instructions:

1. Preheat your air fryer: Set the temperature to 400°F (200°C). Preheating is important as it helps the chicken tenders cook evenly and get crispy.

2. Prepare the chicken: If the chicken tenders are not already thawed, make sure they are fully thawed and patted dry with paper towels. This helps to ensure a nice coating.

3. Make the honey BBQ sauce: In a medium bowl, mix together the honey and BBQ sauce until well combined. Reserve half of this sauce in a separate bowl for later.

4. Coat the chicken: In another bowl, beat the eggs. In a third bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Dip each chicken tender into the egg mixture, then coat it in the breadcrumb mixture to create a nice layer.

5. Air fry the chicken: Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or olive oil spray to prevent sticking. Place the coated chicken tenders into the basket in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd them. You may need to do this in batches.

6. Cook the chicken: Air fry the chicken tenders for about 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through. They should be golden brown and cooked through by the end. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).

7. Glaze with honey BBQ sauce: In the last few minutes of cooking, brush the reserved honey BBQ sauce on top of the chicken tenders. Allow them to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to let the sauce caramelize slightly.

8. Serve immediately: Once done, carefully remove the chicken tenders from the air fryer and serve hot.

How to Serve Air Fryer Honey BBQ Chicken Tenders

These chicken tenders can be served in various delicious ways. Here are a few suggestions for serving:

• With Dipping Sauces: Set out a variety of dipping sauces, such as ranch, honey mustard, or extra BBQ sauce. This allows everyone to customize their meal to their liking.

• On a Bed of Salad: Pair the chicken tenders with fresh greens, vegetables, and your favorite dressing for a complete meal.

• In Wraps and Sandwiches: Use the honey BBQ chicken tenders to create amazing wraps or sandwiches. Just add some lettuce, tomatoes, and your favorite condiments.

• As Appetizers: Cut the tenders into smaller pieces and serve them as finger food at parties or gatherings. Your guests will love them!

How to Store Air Fryer Honey BBQ Chicken Tenders

If you happen to have leftovers (which is unlikely), storing them is simple. Make sure to let the chicken tenders cool to room temperature first. Then, place them in an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat them again, simply reheat them in the air fryer for a few minutes to regain that crispy texture.

Tips for Preparing Air Fryer Honey BBQ Chicken Tenders

Here are some helpful tips to ensure your chicken tenders turn out perfectly:

• Choose the right chicken: Fresh chicken tenders work best. If using frozen, make sure they are completely thawed and dried well before coating.

• Don’t skip the coating: A good coating is key to achieving that nice crunch and flavor. Make sure each tender is well-coated in the egg and breadcrumb mixture.

• Preheat the air fryer: Always preheat your air fryer for even cooking and better texture.

• Watch the cooking time: Air fryer models may vary, so keep an eye on your chicken tenders to avoid overcooking.

• Use a meat thermometer: For safety, use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches the proper internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Variation

You can easily switch things up with this recipe if you want to try something different. Here are a few variations you can consider:

• Spicy Honey BBQ Chicken Tenders: Add some cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the honey BBQ mixture for a spicy kick.

• Herb-Infused Chicken Tenders: Mix dried herbs such as oregano or thyme into the breadcrumb mixture for added flavor.

• Parmesan-Crusted Tenders: For a cheesy twist, add grated Parmesan cheese to the breadcrumb mixture.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use regular chicken breasts instead of tenders?

   • Yes, you can! Simply cut chicken breasts into strips that mimic tenders. Adjust the baking time accordingly, as larger pieces might take longer to cook.

2. Can I bake these instead of using an air fryer?

   • Absolutely! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the coated chicken tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

3. Can I freeze the chicken tenders?

   • Yes, you can freeze the uncoated or cooked chicken tenders. If freezing before cooking, lay them flat on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. For cooked tenders, they can also be frozen for later enjoyment.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Air Fryer Honey BBQ Chicken Tenders are a delicious and easy dish the whole family will enjoy. With their irresistible flavor and satisfying texture, it’s no wonder my kids call them “magic sticks.” They are perfect for weeknight dinners, casual get-togethers, or even special occasions. Give this recipe a try, and you’ll quickly see why they become a favorite in your home, disappearing in mere seconds!