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Hot Honey Chicken Tenders in Air Fryer

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Hot Honey Chicken Tenders in the air fryer are crispy, juicy, and coated in a sweet-and-spicy glaze. Made without deep frying, these golden tenders are lighter yet full of bold flavor, making them perfect for weeknights or game-day snacking.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb chicken tenders or boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into strips)
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Cooking spray or oil mist
  • 1/3 cup honey
  • 23 tbsp hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot, Cholula, or Sriracha)
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 tsp apple cider vinegar or lemon juice (optional, for tang)

Instructions

  1. Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Set up a dredging station with flour, beaten eggs, and panko mixed with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  3. Coat chicken strips in flour, dip in egg, then press into panko mixture until well coated.
  4. Arrange chicken in a single layer in the air fryer basket and spray lightly with oil.
  5. Air fry 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and cooked through (165°F/74°C internal temp).
  6. Meanwhile, melt butter in a small saucepan. Stir in honey, hot sauce, red pepper flakes, and vinegar or lemon juice if using. Simmer 1–2 minutes until slightly thickened.
  7. Toss cooked chicken tenders in hot honey sauce or drizzle on top before serving.

Notes

Double coat with flour and panko for extra crispy tenders.For a mild version, use a mild hot sauce and omit red pepper flakes.Gluten-free option: use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs.Make dairy-free by substituting vegan butter or omitting butter in the sauce.Best reheated in the air fryer for crispiness; add fresh sauce before serving.

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