Air Fryer Chicken Tenders with Honey Mustard Sauce Recipe

Let me tell you, finding dinner recipes that please everyone in my house can sometimes feel like navigating a culinary minefield. But then, I stumbled upon air fryer chicken tenders. Initially, I was skeptical – could air-fried tenders really compete with the crispy, golden perfection of their deep-fried counterparts? The answer, unequivocally, is YES! From the moment my family took their first bites, these air fryer chicken tenders became an instant weeknight staple. The chicken is unbelievably juicy and tender on the inside, encased in a satisfyingly crispy and flavorful coating, all without the guilt of excessive oil. And the homemade honey mustard sauce? It’s the perfect tangy-sweet complement, tying everything together in a symphony of deliciousness. Even my pickiest eater devoured these, declaring them “better than restaurant tenders!” If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing, healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken tenders that’s also incredibly easy to make, look no further. This air fryer chicken tender recipe is a game-changer, and I’m thrilled to share it with you.

Ingredients

For the ultimate air fryer chicken tenders experience, you’ll need to gather a few key ingredients for both the chicken and the delectable honey mustard dipping sauce. Let’s break down each component to ensure you’re fully prepared for cooking success.

For the Chicken Tenders:

• 1.5 lbs Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Starting with high-quality chicken breasts is crucial. Opt for fresh, plump breasts if possible. You can also use frozen chicken breasts, but ensure they are fully thawed before starting the recipe. The weight is important for ensuring you have enough tenders for the recipe’s serving size, and for proper seasoning ratios.
• 1 cup Buttermilk: Buttermilk is the secret weapon for incredibly tender and juicy chicken. Its acidity helps to tenderize the chicken fibers while also adding a subtle tang that enhances the overall flavor. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a quick substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to 1 cup of milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes to curdle slightly before using.
• 1 large Egg: The egg acts as a binder, helping the breadcrumb mixture adhere to the chicken. It also adds a bit of richness and moisture to the coating.
• 1 ½ cups Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs are essential for achieving that signature crispy texture. They are larger and flakier than regular breadcrumbs, resulting in a much more satisfying crunch when air-fried. If you must substitute, use regular breadcrumbs, but know that the crispiness will be slightly less pronounced.
• ½ cup All-Purpose Flour: The flour creates a base layer for the breadcrumbs to stick to, ensuring a more even and complete coating. It also contributes to the overall crispiness.
• ¼ cup Cornstarch: Cornstarch is another key ingredient for achieving extra crispiness. It helps to absorb moisture and creates a light, delicate crunch that’s irresistible.
• 2 tablespoons Paprika: Paprika adds a beautiful color and a subtle smoky sweetness to the chicken. You can use regular paprika or smoked paprika for a more intense smoky flavor.
• 2 teaspoons Garlic Powder: Garlic powder provides a savory, aromatic base flavor that complements the chicken perfectly.
• 2 teaspoons Onion Powder: Onion powder adds another layer of savory depth and complexity to the seasoning blend, working in harmony with the garlic powder.
• 1 teaspoon Dried Thyme: Dried thyme brings a touch of earthy, herbaceous flavor that elevates the overall taste profile of the chicken.
• 1 teaspoon Salt: Salt is crucial for seasoning the chicken and enhancing all the other flavors. Use kosher salt or sea salt for best results.
• ½ teaspoon Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds a touch of spice and complexity to the seasoning blend.

For the Honey Mustard Sauce:

• ½ cup Mayonnaise: Mayonnaise forms the creamy base of the honey mustard sauce. Use your favorite brand of mayonnaise. Full-fat mayonnaise will provide the richest flavor and texture, but you can use light mayonnaise if you prefer.
• ¼ cup Honey: Honey provides the signature sweetness in honey mustard sauce. Use a good quality honey for the best flavor. You can adjust the amount of honey to your preference, adding more for a sweeter sauce or less for a tangier sauce.
• ¼ cup Dijon Mustard: Dijon mustard is essential for the classic tangy and slightly spicy flavor of honey mustard. Its sharpness cuts through the sweetness of the honey and the richness of the mayonnaise.
• 1 tablespoon Yellow Mustard: Yellow mustard adds another layer of mustard flavor and a bit of bright acidity to the sauce. It complements the Dijon mustard perfectly.
• 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice adds a touch of brightness and acidity that balances the sweetness and richness of the other ingredients. Fresh lemon juice is always preferred over bottled for its superior flavor.
• ½ teaspoon Paprika (optional, for color and a hint of flavor): A pinch of paprika can be added to the honey mustard sauce for a subtle smoky note and to enhance its color.
• Salt and Pepper to taste: Season the honey mustard sauce with salt and pepper to your liking to bring all the flavors together and achieve the perfect balance.

Instructions

Creating these mouthwatering air fryer chicken tenders with honey mustard sauce is surprisingly straightforward. Follow these step-by-step instructions for perfectly cooked, crispy tenders and a sauce that will have everyone begging for more.

Preparing the Chicken Tenders:

1. Prepare the Chicken: Begin by preparing your chicken breasts. If using whole chicken breasts, slice them into tender strips, about 1-inch thick and 3-4 inches long. Aim for uniform size to ensure even cooking. Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels. This is a crucial step as it helps the breading adhere better and promotes crispiness.
2. Marinate in Buttermilk: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the chicken tenders and buttermilk. Ensure all the chicken pieces are submerged in the buttermilk. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or ideally for 1-2 hours. This marinating time allows the buttermilk to tenderize the chicken and infuse it with flavor. For even more tender chicken, you can marinate it for up to 4 hours.
3. Set up Breading Stations: While the chicken is marinating, prepare your breading stations. In three separate shallow dishes or plates, set up the following:
   • Station 1: Flour Mixture: In the first dish, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly to ensure all spices are evenly distributed.
   • Station 2: Egg Wash: In the second dish, lightly beat the large egg. Whisk until the yolk and white are fully combined.
   • Station 3: Panko Breadcrumbs: In the third dish, place the panko breadcrumbs. You can lightly season the panko with a pinch of salt and pepper if desired, but it’s generally not necessary as the flour mixture is already well-seasoned.
4. Bread the Chicken Tenders: Now it’s time to bread the chicken. Take one chicken tender at a time from the buttermilk marinade, letting any excess buttermilk drip off.
   • Dredge in Flour Mixture: First, dredge the chicken tender in the flour mixture, ensuring it is fully coated on all sides. Shake off any excess flour.
   • Dip in Egg Wash: Next, dip the flour-coated chicken tender into the egg wash, making sure it is completely submerged and coated. Allow any excess egg wash to drip off.
   • Coat in Panko Breadcrumbs: Finally, dredge the egg-washed chicken tender in the panko breadcrumbs. Press the breadcrumbs gently onto the chicken to ensure they adhere well. Make sure the entire surface of the chicken tender is coated in panko.
   • Repeat: Repeat this breading process for all the remaining chicken tenders. As you bread each tender, place it on a plate or baking sheet in a single layer. Avoid stacking them, as this can make the breading soggy.

Air Frying the Chicken Tenders:

1. Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Preheating is crucial for achieving crispy chicken tenders. If your air fryer model requires it, you can lightly spray the air fryer basket with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking, although this is often not necessary with panko breadcrumbs.
2. Air Fry in Batches: Work in batches to avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. Overcrowding will steam the chicken instead of air frying it, resulting in less crispy tenders. Arrange the breaded chicken tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving a little space between each tender for air circulation. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook in 2-3 batches.
3. Cook the Chicken Tenders: Air fry the chicken tenders for 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through, after about 5-6 minutes. Flipping ensures even cooking and browning on both sides. The chicken is done when it is golden brown and crispy on the outside and cooked through on the inside. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) when measured with a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of a tender.
4. Repeat for Remaining Batches: Remove the cooked chicken tenders from the air fryer and place them on a wire rack to keep them crispy while you cook the remaining batches. Repeat steps 2 and 3 until all the chicken tenders are cooked.

Making the Honey Mustard Sauce:

1. Combine Ingredients: While the chicken is cooking, prepare the honey mustard sauce. In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, honey, Dijon mustard, yellow mustard, and lemon juice.
2. Whisk Until Smooth: Whisk all the ingredients together until the sauce is smooth, creamy, and well combined.
3. Season to Taste: Taste the honey mustard sauce and season with salt and pepper to your preference. If you want a sweeter sauce, add a little more honey. If you prefer a tangier sauce, add a touch more Dijon mustard or lemon juice. If using, stir in a pinch of paprika for color and a subtle smoky flavor.
4. Serve and Enjoy: Once the chicken tenders are cooked and the honey mustard sauce is ready, serve them immediately while they are hot and crispy. Serve the honey mustard sauce alongside the chicken tenders for dipping. Enjoy your delicious homemade air fryer chicken tenders!

Nutrition Facts

(Per Serving, approximate, based on 4 servings)

• Serving Size: Approximately 3-4 chicken tenders
• Calories: 450-550 kcal
• Protein: 40-50g
• Fat: 20-30g
  • Saturated Fat: 4-6g
• Cholesterol: 150-200mg
• Sodium: 500-700mg
• Carbohydrates: 30-40g
  • Fiber: 1-2g
  • Sugar: 10-15g

Note: Nutritional values are estimates and can vary depending on specific ingredients used, portion sizes, and cooking methods. Air frying significantly reduces the fat content compared to traditional deep-fried chicken tenders. The honey mustard sauce contributes to the sugar and fat content.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 30 minutes (includes chicken preparation, marinating, and breading)
• Cook Time: 15-20 minutes (depending on air fryer and batch sizes)
• Total Time: 45-50 minutes

This recipe is relatively quick and easy, making it perfect for a weeknight meal. The marinating time adds to the overall preparation time, but it significantly enhances the tenderness and flavor of the chicken.

How to Serve

These air fryer chicken tenders are incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways. Here are some delicious serving suggestions:

• Classic Dipping:
  • Honey Mustard Sauce: Of course, the homemade honey mustard sauce is the star dipping companion!
  • Other Dipping Sauces: Offer a variety of dipping sauces to cater to different tastes. Consider:
    • BBQ Sauce: A smoky and tangy BBQ sauce complements the crispy chicken perfectly.
    • Ranch Dressing: Creamy ranch dressing is a classic and always a crowd-pleaser.
    • Ketchup: Simple and always reliable, especially for kids.
    • Spicy Mayo: Mix mayonnaise with sriracha or your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
    • Sweet Chili Sauce: A sweet and slightly spicy Asian-inspired dipping option.
• Make it a Meal with Sides:
  • French Fries or Air Fryer Fries: Crispy fries are the quintessential side for chicken tenders. Air fryer fries keep it healthier!
  • Sweet Potato Fries: A slightly healthier and sweeter alternative to regular fries.
  • Coleslaw: Creamy coleslaw provides a refreshing and crunchy contrast to the crispy chicken.
  • Mac and Cheese: A comforting and cheesy side dish that pairs wonderfully with chicken tenders.
  • Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob is a simple and summery side.
  • Green Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette adds a healthy and balanced element to the meal.
  • Roasted Vegetables: Roasted broccoli, carrots, or Brussels sprouts are nutritious and flavorful sides.
• Chicken Tender Meals:
  • Chicken Tender Salad: Slice the air fryer chicken tenders and arrange them on top of a bed of mixed greens with your favorite salad toppings and dressing.
  • Chicken Tender Wraps or Burritos: Wrap the chicken tenders in tortillas with lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, and your choice of sauce for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
  • Chicken Tender Sandwiches: Serve the chicken tenders on burger buns or rolls with lettuce, tomato, cheese, and honey mustard sauce for a delicious sandwich.
  • Chicken and Waffles: For a fun and indulgent brunch or dinner, serve the chicken tenders with waffles and maple syrup or hot honey.

Additional Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

To ensure your air fryer chicken tenders are consistently amazing, keep these helpful tips in mind:

1. Don’t Skip the Buttermilk Marinade: Marinating the chicken in buttermilk is crucial for tenderness and flavor. It truly makes a difference in the final result. Even a 30-minute marinade will improve the texture, but longer is better for maximum tenderness.
2. Pat the Chicken Dry Before Breading: Excess moisture on the chicken will prevent the breading from sticking properly and can lead to soggy tenders. Patting the chicken dry with paper towels before dredging in flour is a simple but essential step for crispy results.
3. Ensure Even Breading: Take your time to bread the chicken tenders thoroughly and evenly. Make sure every part of the chicken is coated with flour, egg wash, and panko breadcrumbs. Press the breadcrumbs gently to help them adhere. Uneven breading can lead to some parts being crispy and others being soft.
4. Don’t Overcrowd the Air Fryer Basket: Overcrowding is the biggest mistake people make when air frying. It prevents proper air circulation and results in steamed rather than crispy food. Cook the chicken tenders in batches, arranging them in a single layer with some space between each piece.
5. Adjust Cooking Time and Temperature as Needed: Air fryers can vary in power and cooking times. Use the recipe as a guideline, but always check for doneness. The chicken should be golden brown and crispy, and the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). If your tenders are browning too quickly, you can lower the temperature slightly. If they are not crisping up enough, you can increase the cooking time by a minute or two.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Here are some common questions you might have about making air fryer chicken tenders:

Q1: Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of panko?

A: While panko breadcrumbs are highly recommended for their superior crispiness, you can use regular breadcrumbs as a substitute if needed. However, the texture will be less crunchy. For best results with regular breadcrumbs, consider toasting them lightly in a dry pan before using to enhance their crispness. You might also want to add a bit more cornstarch to the flour mixture to compensate for the less crispy breadcrumbs.

Q2: Can I make these chicken tenders ahead of time?

A: For the best quality and crispiness, air fryer chicken tenders are best enjoyed immediately after cooking. However, you can prepare the breaded chicken tenders ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 hours before air frying. Store them in a single layer on a plate or baking sheet covered with plastic wrap. You can also fully cook the chicken tenders and reheat them in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes to crisp them up again, but they may not be as perfectly crispy as freshly cooked tenders.

Q3: Can I freeze air fryer chicken tenders?

A: Yes, you can freeze air fryer chicken tenders, either cooked or uncooked (breaded).

• To freeze cooked chicken tenders: Let them cool completely after air frying. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Reheat them in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) until heated through and crispy.
• To freeze uncooked breaded chicken tenders: Place the breaded tenders in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper if needed. Air fry them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time, until cooked through and golden brown.

Q4: My chicken tenders are not crispy. What am I doing wrong?

A: There are several reasons why your chicken tenders might not be crispy:

• Overcrowding the air fryer: This is the most common culprit. Ensure you cook in batches and don’t overcrowd the basket.
• Not patting the chicken dry: Excess moisture prevents crispiness. Pat the chicken dry thoroughly before breading.
• Not preheating the air fryer: Preheating is important for achieving that initial burst of heat needed for crisping.
• Not using enough oil (though this recipe is designed to minimize oil): While this recipe aims for minimal oil, a very light spray of oil on the breaded tenders before air frying can sometimes enhance crispiness.
• Air fryer temperature too low or cooking time too short: Ensure your air fryer is at the correct temperature (400°F/200°C) and cook for the recommended time, checking for doneness.

Q5: Can I adjust the spice level of the chicken tenders?

A: Absolutely! You can easily adjust the spice level to your preference.

• For less spice: Reduce or omit the paprika, or use sweet paprika instead of regular paprika.
• For more spice: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the flour mixture. You can also add a dash of hot sauce to the buttermilk marinade for a subtle kick. Consider adding a spicy seasoning blend to the panko breadcrumbs, like Cajun seasoning or chili powder.

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