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#### **Instructions**:
**Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Tenders**
1. Begin by patting the chicken tenders dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This ensures a crispier coating when cooked.
2. Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls. In the first bowl, combine the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. In the second bowl, crack and beat the eggs. In the third bowl, place the panko breadcrumbs.
3. Dredge each chicken tender in the flour mixture, making sure it is evenly coated. Then dip it into the egg wash and finally coat it in the panko breadcrumbs. Press the breadcrumbs gently into the chicken to ensure a thorough coating.
**Step 2: Preheat the Air Fryer**
1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes. Preheating ensures that the chicken tenders cook evenly and get crispy.
**Step 3: Air Fry the Chicken Tenders**
1. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or brush it with a little oil to prevent sticking.
2. Arrange the breaded chicken tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Make sure there is some space between each piece to allow air to circulate for even cooking. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook the tenders in batches.
3. Air fry the chicken tenders at 375°F for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the tenders are golden brown and crispy on the outside and fully cooked inside (the internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C).
**Step 4: Prepare the Honey Butter Garlic Sauce**
1. While the chicken is cooking, prepare the honey butter garlic sauce. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
2. Add the honey and soy sauce (if using) to the pan, stirring until the mixture is well combined. Let it simmer for 1-2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
3. If you like a little heat, add the crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce. Stir well and remove from heat.
**Step 5: Coat the Chicken Tenders**
1. Once the chicken tenders are done cooking, remove them from the air fryer and transfer them to a large bowl.
2. Pour the honey butter garlic sauce over the chicken tenders, tossing gently to coat them evenly in the sauce. Make sure each piece is generously glazed.
**Step 6: Serve and Enjoy**
1. Serve the **Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders** immediately with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch or barbecue sauce, and a side of crispy fries, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and extra flavor.
### Tips and Variations for Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders
1. **Make it Spicy**: If you enjoy a little heat, you can add sriracha sauce or chili paste to the honey butter garlic sauce. This will give the chicken tenders a spicy kick that pairs well with the sweetness of the honey.
2. **Add More Flavor**: Experiment with different seasonings for the breadcrumb coating. For example, you can add dried herbs like thyme, oregano, or Italian seasoning for an extra burst of flavor.
3. **Crispy Chicken Tenders**: For an even crispier texture, spray the coated chicken tenders with a little cooking spray or olive oil before air frying. This will help them crisp up even more and give them a golden-brown finish.
4. **Make it Gluten-Free**: For a gluten-free version, swap out the flour and breadcrumbs for gluten-free alternatives, such as almond flour or rice flour for the breading and gluten-free panko breadcrumbs.
### Nutritional Information (Approximate Per Serving)
– **Calories**: 320
– **Protein**: 30g
– **Carbohydrates**: 18g
– **Fat**: 18g
– **Fiber**: 1g
– **Sugar**: 10g
### Conclusion
**Air Fryer Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Tenders** are the perfect combination of crispy, sweet, and savory flavors that will leave
your taste buds craving more. This easy-to-make recipe is a healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken tenders, thanks to the air fryer. The honey butter garlic sauce adds a touch of indulgence while keeping the dish light and satisfying.
Whether you’re making them for a family dinner, a party, or just a quick weeknight meal, these tenders are sure to impress. Serve them with your favorite sides, and you have a delicious, crowd-pleasing meal that’s as simple as it is flavorful. So fire up that air fryer and get ready to enjoy these irresistible chicken tenders—you won’t regret it!
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