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Crispy Air Fryer Hot Honey Chicken Tenders

A close-up of crispy, glazed hot honey chicken tenders piled on a white plate, glistening under natural light.
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Make unbelievably crispy hot honey chicken tenders at home. These tenders are juicy inside with a shatteringly crisp coating, tossed in a perfectly balanced sweet and spicy homemade hot honey glaze. This air fryer method delivers takeout flavor with simple steps.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch wide tenders
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1.5 cups panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • Cooking spray or oil for air fryer
  • For the Hot Honey Glaze:
  • 1/2 cup honey
  • 2 tablespoons hot sauce (use your favorite brand)
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the chicken: Place the chicken tenders in a bowl and cover them with buttermilk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Mix well and let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours.
  2. Set up the breading station: Place the flour in one shallow dish, the beaten eggs in a second dish, and the panko breadcrumbs in a third dish.
  3. Coat the chicken: Remove the tenders from the buttermilk, letting excess drip off. Dredge each tender first in the flour, shaking off any excess. Dip into the egg mixture, then press firmly into the panko breadcrumbs until fully coated. Place the coated tenders on a wire rack.
  4. Preheat the air fryer: Set your air fryer to 380°F (195°C). Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or brush with oil.
  5. Air fry the tenders: Arrange the coated tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they do not overlap. Spray the tops of the tenders lightly with cooking spray or oil for better browning. Cook for 10 to 12 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  6. Make the hot honey glaze: While the chicken cooks, combine the honey, hot sauce, apple cider vinegar, and cayenne pepper (if using) in a small saucepan. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring until the mixture is smooth and just begins to simmer. Remove from heat immediately.
  7. Glaze the tenders: Once the chicken tenders are cooked, transfer them to a large bowl. Pour the warm hot honey glaze over the tenders and toss gently until every piece is evenly coated.
  8. Serve immediately for the best crunchy texture.

Notes

  • For extra crunch, you can bake these tenders on a wire rack set over a baking sheet at 400°F (200°C) for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway.
  • If you prefer a thicker glaze, simmer the sauce for an extra minute or two until it reduces slightly.
  • Garnish with sesame seeds or chopped fresh parsley before serving for visual appeal.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://alchemychef.com/hot-honey-chicken-tenders-recipe/