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Air Fryer Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders

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Air Fryer Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders made with corn flakes are the perfect combo of crispy, sweet, and savory. These golden tenders use crushed corn flakes as the breading for an ultra-crunchy texture without needing deep frying. Drizzled or tossed in a sticky honey garlic glaze, they’re a crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults—ready in under 30 minutes with minimal cleanup thanks to the air fryer.

Why You’ll Love Air Fryer Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders

This recipe takes traditional fried chicken tenders and gives them a healthier twist without sacrificing crunch or flavor. The corn flake coating creates a satisfying crispiness, while the homemade honey garlic sauce adds a glossy, addictive finish. They’re easy to make, family-friendly, and perfect for busy weeknights, game days, or quick lunches.

Expert Tips and Tricks

  • Crush the corn flakes by hand or pulse briefly in a food processor—too fine and you’ll lose the crunch.
  • Pat chicken dry before dredging to help the coating stick better.
  • Use a two-hand method for breading: one for wet ingredients, one for dry.
  • Preheat your air fryer for even cooking and maximum crispiness.
  • Spray the tenders lightly with oil before cooking to get a golden finish.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

  • Swap chicken tenders for boneless thighs or cut breasts into strips.
  • Add cayenne or crushed red pepper to the glaze for a spicy kick.
  • Replace corn flakes with crushed Ritz crackers, panko, or even pretzels.
  • Use maple syrup instead of honey for a different sweetness profile.
  • Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free corn flakes and gluten-free soy sauce.
  • Dairy-Free: Ensure your corn flakes and sauce ingredients are dairy-free; skip buttermilk or use plant-based milk with lemon juice.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Serve these tenders hot from the air fryer with extra sauce for dipping, or drizzle the glaze just before serving to maintain their crisp. They pair well with coleslaw, garlic mashed potatoes, or roasted veggies. For a lighter option, serve over a bed of greens with an Asian-inspired vinaigrette. A cold lemonade or light beer makes a great beverage pairing.

Storage and Reheating Tips

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 4–6 minutes to revive the crunch.
  • Avoid microwaving, as it will soften the coating.
  • Freeze breaded (uncooked) tenders and air fry straight from frozen at 380°F for 15–18 minutes.

Recipe FAQs

Do I need to pre-cook the chicken before air frying?
No, the air fryer cooks it through—just ensure tenders reach 165°F internally.

Can I bake them instead?
Yes, bake at 425°F on a wire rack-lined baking sheet for 18–22 minutes.

How do I keep the coating from falling off?
Press the corn flakes firmly onto the tenders and avoid flipping too early.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, store it in the fridge and reheat gently before using.

Air Fryer Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders

Air Fryer Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders

Yield: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Crispy Air Fryer Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders use corn flakes for extra crunch and a sticky homemade glaze—easy, fast, and better than takeout!

Ingredients

  • 1 lb chicken tenders or strips
  • 2 cups corn flakes, crushed
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 eggs
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp onion powder
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Cooking spray or oil mist
  • Chopped fresh parsley, green onions, or cilantro for garnish (optional)

For the Honey Garlic Sauce

  • ¼ cup honey
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar
  • 2–3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp water (optional, for thickening)

Instructions

  1. Preheat air fryer to 400°F for 3–5 minutes.
  2. Set up 3 dredging bowls: one with flour + seasonings, one with beaten eggs, one with crushed corn flakes.
  3. Pat chicken tenders dry. Dredge in flour, then egg, then coat firmly with crushed corn flakes.
  4. Lightly spray both sides with oil and place in a single layer in the air fryer basket (work in batches if needed).
  5. Air fry for 10–12 minutes, flipping once halfway, until golden and cooked through (internal temp 165°F).
  6. While the chicken cooks, make the sauce: combine honey, soy sauce, vinegar, and garlic in a small saucepan. Simmer over medium heat for 3–5 minutes. For a thicker sauce, mix cornstarch and water, stir in, and cook until slightly thickened.
  7. Drizzle or toss tenders in the warm sauce just before serving, or serve sauce on the side.

Notes

  • Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket—space allows crisp air circulation.
  • For even more crunch, double-coat the tenders: dip in egg and flakes twice.
  • Line air fryer basket with perforated parchment for easier cleanup.
  • Use a meat thermometer to check doneness if unsure.
  • Let tenders rest for 2 minutes after cooking for the coating to set.

    • Nutrition Information:
    Yield: 4 Serving Size: 1
    Amount Per Serving: Calories: 620Total Fat: 25gSaturated Fat: 4gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 18gCholesterol: 145mgSodium: 1565mgCarbohydrates: 71gFiber: 3gSugar: 20gProtein: 29g
    © Chasety.com
    Cuisine: American / Category: Appetizers

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