Hot Honey Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
Hot Honey Air Fryer Chicken Tenders : If you’re looking for a chicken dish that is both delicious and easy to make, you have found it! Hot Honey Air Fryer Chicken Tenders are a fantastic choice. These tenders combine crispy texture with juicy meat and a drizzle of sweet honey mixed with a bit of spice. They are perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a tasty snack. With the air fryer, you can achieve that crunchy goodness without using too much oil. This dish is not only delectable but also healthier than traditional frying methods. Let’s dive into this recipe and learn how to make it!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Hot Honey Air Fryer Chicken Tenders are loved for many reasons. First, they are incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a tasty meal in no time. Second, the air fryer makes them crispy without the need for soaking in oil. This gives you a healthier option without sacrificing flavor.
Moreover, the blend of hot honey adds a unique twist that brings a delightful balance of sweetness and heat. It’s a flavor that tantalizes the taste buds and keeps everyone coming back for more. Lastly, these chicken tenders are versatile. They work great as a meal on their own, in a sandwich, or as a topping for salads. You’ll find endless ways to enjoy them!
How to Prepare Hot Honey Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
Now that you’re excited about making these tasty chicken tenders, let’s go over what you will need and how to prepare them.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound chicken tenders
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- Cooking spray
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1-2 teaspoons hot sauce (adjust to taste)
Instructions:
Marinate the Chicken: Start by placing the chicken tenders in a bowl and pouring the buttermilk over them. Make sure the chicken is fully submerged. Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This helps tenderize the chicken and adds flavor.
Prepare the Breading: In a separate bowl, mix the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. This mix will give your chicken a crispy and flavorful coating.
Coat the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the buttermilk, allowing the excess to drip off. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, making sure to coat it well. Shake off any excess flour.
Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and gets crispy.
Spray and Cook: Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place the coated chicken tenders in a single layer in the basket. Lightly spray the tops of the chicken tenders with cooking spray for an extra crispy finish.
Air Fry the Chicken: Cook the chicken tenders for about 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through. They should be golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Prepare the Hot Honey: While the chicken is cooking, mix the honey and hot sauce in a small bowl. Adjust the level of hot sauce to suit your taste.
Drizzle and Serve: Once the chicken is done, remove it from the air fryer and drizzle the hot honey mixture over the top. Serve immediately, and enjoy your delicious chicken tenders!
How to Serve Hot Honey Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
These chicken tenders can be served in many different ways. A simple and classic choice is to serve them with dipping sauces. Popular options include ranch, blue cheese dressing, or BBQ sauce. You can also serve them alongside sides like fries, coleslaw, or a fresh salad.
For a more substantial meal, consider placing the chicken tenders in a sandwich or wrap. Add some lettuce, tomato, and mayonnaise for a tasty treat. These tenders also make a great protein addition to a salad. Just chop them up and toss them with your favorite greens and vegetables.
How to Store Hot Honey Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
If you happen to have leftovers (though they might not last long!), storing them properly is important. Place the cooked chicken tenders in an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat them in the air fryer for a few minutes to regain their crispness.
For longer storage, you can freeze the uncooked, breaded chicken tenders. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze for a couple of hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to cook them, you can air fry from frozen; just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Preparation Tips for Hot Honey Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
Don’t Skimp on the Marinade: Marinating the chicken in buttermilk not only enhances flavor but also ensures the chicken is tender and juicy. Allowing it to sit for longer will yield even better results, so feel free to marinate for up to 2 hours if you have the time.
Even Coating: Make sure to coat the chicken evenly in the flour mixture. This will help get that perfect crunchy texture.
Avoid Overcrowding: Cook the chicken tenders in batches if necessary. Overcrowding the air fryer can lead to uneven cooking and may prevent them from getting crispy.
Temperature Check: Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) for safety and doneness.
Variation
Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your taste! For example, if you want to make it spicier, increase the amount of cayenne pepper, or add your favorite spices to the flour mixture. You can also experiment with different sauces instead of hot honey, like teriyaki or garlic sauce, for a different flavor profile.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts. Just make sure to cut them into strips about the same size as tenders. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
2. Is it necessary to marinate the chicken in buttermilk?
While marinating the chicken in buttermilk is recommended for flavor and tenderness, you can skip this step if you’re short on time. However, the results may not be as juicy as those that have been marinated.
3. Can I make these chicken tenders gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or use crushed gluten-free crackers. Just ensure that the other ingredients you use are also gluten-free.
With this guide, you have all the information you need to make tasty Hot Honey Air Fryer Chicken Tenders. Enjoy cooking, and most importantly, enjoy eating this delicious dish!
