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Air Fryer Honey BBQ Chicken Tenders

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  • Author: Alice
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 8-10 minutes
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Air Fryer Honey BBQ Chicken Tenders are a quick, crispy, and juicy alternative to deep-fried chicken. Coated in a sweet and smoky honey BBQ sauce, these tenders are easy to make and cook quickly in the air fryer, making them perfect for a healthier family-friendly meal or game night snack.


Ingredients

For the Chicken Tenders:

  • 1 1/2 pounds chicken tenders (about 8 tenders)

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour

  • 2 large eggs

  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs

  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Honey BBQ Sauce:

  • 1/2 cup BBQ sauce

  • 2 tablespoons honey

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for spraying)

Instructions

  • Prep the Chicken: Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.

  • Prepare the Coating: Set up a breading station with flour, beaten eggs, and a mixture of panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.

  • Coat the Chicken: Dredge each tender in flour, dip in beaten eggs, and coat with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure it sticks.

  • Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3 minutes.

  • Cook the Chicken: Lightly spray chicken tenders with olive oil. Place them in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden brown and crispy.

  • Make the Honey BBQ Sauce: In a small bowl, mix BBQ sauce and honey until smooth.

  • Coat with Sauce: Toss the cooked chicken tenders in the honey BBQ sauce, coating them evenly.

  • Serve: Serve immediately with your favorite sides such as fries, coleslaw, or a fresh salad.


Notes

Add a spicy kick by incorporating cayenne pepper or hot sauce into the BBQ sauce.For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs.For extra crunch, try using crushed cornflakes instead of panko breadcrumbs.If you don’t have an air fryer, bake the tenders at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes.To store leftovers, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.Reheat leftovers in the air fryer to maintain crispiness.