Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Hot honey chicken tenders made in the air fryer are the perfect mix of crispy, sweet, and spicy. The tenders are coated in a crunchy golden crust, air-fried to perfection, and finished with a drizzle of hot honey that balances heat and sweetness in every bite. Unlike deep-fried versions, this recipe is healthier while still delivering that irresistible crunch. Quick to prepare and easy to cook, these tenders make an ideal weeknight dinner, party snack, or game-day favorite. The air fryer ensures even cooking with minimal oil, while the hot honey glaze elevates the flavor to something truly special. Whether you pair them with fries, a crisp salad, or enjoy them on their own, these chicken tenders are guaranteed to impress. If you’re looking for comfort food with a fiery twist, this recipe delivers big flavor without the guilt.
Crispy Perfection: Hot Honey Chicken Tenders in the Air Fryer
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
Crispy golden chicken tenders cooked in the air fryer and drizzled with a sweet and spicy hot honey glaze, perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or game-day snack.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken tenders
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup regular breadcrumbs
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Olive oil spray
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tbsp hot sauce
- 1 tbsp butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Set up breading station: place flour in one bowl, beaten eggs in another, and panko + breadcrumbs + garlic powder + paprika + salt + pepper in a third.
- Coat chicken tenders in flour, dip in egg, then coat with breadcrumb mixture, pressing to adhere.
- Arrange chicken tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Spray lightly with olive oil.
- Air fry for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and cooked through (165°F internal temp).
- Meanwhile, in a small bowl, whisk honey, hot sauce, and melted butter until smooth.
- Drizzle hot honey glaze over chicken tenders or serve on the side for dipping.
Notes
- Adjust hot sauce amount based on spice preference.
- For extra crispiness, double-coat chicken with breadcrumbs.
- These pair great with fries, coleslaw, or over waffles for a spicy-sweet twist.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Chicken tenders are the main protein, lean and perfect for quick cooking.
Flour forms the first coating, helping the batter cling to the chicken.
Eggs bind the breading layers and give the tenders structure.
Panko breadcrumbs create the signature crunch that air frying enhances beautifully.
Paprika adds mild spice and vibrant color to the breading mix.
Garlic powder infuses the tenders with a savory depth of flavor.
Salt and pepper balance the seasoning for a well-rounded taste.
Olive oil spray helps the breading crisp up in the air fryer.
Hot honey – a blend of honey and chili flakes or hot sauce – finishes the tenders with sweet heat.
Fresh parsley (optional) adds a bright garnish and a touch of freshness.
Directions
Start by setting up a breading station with three shallow bowls: flour mixed with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in the first; beaten eggs in the second; and panko breadcrumbs in the third.
Coat each chicken tender first in flour, then dip in the egg wash, and finally press into the panko mixture until well coated. Place the breaded tenders on a plate while you prepare the air fryer.
Preheat the air fryer to 375°F. Lightly spray the basket with olive oil spray and arrange the tenders in a single layer without overcrowding. Spray the tops lightly with more oil to ensure even crisping. Cook for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Once cooked, drizzle hot honey generously over the tenders or serve it on the side for dipping. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and enjoy while hot and crispy.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields about 4 servings. Preparation takes 15 minutes, and cooking requires 10–12 minutes. In total, you’ll have hot honey chicken tenders ready in under 30 minutes, making this a perfect quick dinner or snack.
Storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the air fryer at 350°F for 4–5 minutes until crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as it softens the breading. For longer storage, freeze the tenders after cooking and reheat directly from frozen in the air fryer.
Variations and Customizations
Extra Spicy
Add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the breading for more heat.
Cheesy Coating
Mix grated Parmesan into the breadcrumbs for a savory twist.
Gluten-Free Option
Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour to accommodate dietary needs.
Buttermilk Marinated
Soak chicken tenders in buttermilk before breading for extra tenderness.
BBQ Honey Tenders
Replace hot honey with barbecue sauce for a smoky-sweet variation.
Asian-Inspired
Drizzle with spicy chili oil mixed with honey for a fusion take.
Lemon Herb
Finish with lemon zest and herbs for a fresh, zesty version.
Buffalo Honey
Toss tenders in buffalo sauce before drizzling with honey for tangy spice.
Kid-Friendly
Skip the chili in the honey for sweet, crispy tenders kids will love.
Sandwich Style
Serve inside toasted buns with lettuce and pickles for hot honey chicken sandwiches.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?
Yes, just slice them into strips for even cooking.
Do I need to preheat the air fryer?
Yes, preheating ensures even cooking and crispiness.
Can I make these tenders ahead of time?
Yes, bread the tenders in advance and refrigerate until ready to cook.
Is hot honey store-bought or homemade?
You can buy it ready-made or make it by mixing honey with chili flakes or hot sauce.
How do I prevent soggy breading?
Spray with oil and avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket.
Can I bake them instead of air frying?
Yes, bake at 400°F for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway.
Conclusion
Hot honey chicken tenders in the air fryer are the ultimate combination of crispy texture, juicy chicken, and bold flavor. With minimal oil and maximum crunch, this easy recipe makes weeknight dinners or party snacks exciting and irresistible. Whether you enjoy them as a main dish or appetizer, these tenders prove that crispy perfection can be both healthier and full of flavor.
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