Honey butter chicken tenders are crispy, juicy, and coated in the most delicious sticky-sweet sauce. This chicken tenders recipe is pure comfort food and an easy weeknight meal to make!

Made in the air fryer for that perfect crunch without the deep-frying mess, this chicken tenders recipe is one you’ll want on repeat.

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What Are Honey Butter Chicken Tenders?

If you’ve never had honey butter chicken tenders before, get ready for a flavor bomb. This popular dish features crispy breaded chicken tenders tossed in a glossy, buttery honey-soy-garlic glaze.

You get that sweet-savory combo with just the right hint of garlic, and they’re especially amazing when made in the air fryer for easy cleanup.

Why You’ll Love This Honey Butter Chicken Tenders Recipe

Crispy and juicy texture combo: Golden outside, tender and juicy inside—what’s not to love?
Easy to make at home: No need to deep-fry or fuss. The air fryer does all the heavy lifting.
Sweet, savory, and garlicky glaze: The honey butter sauce is rich and flavorful with a touch of umami.
Kid- and crowd-approved: These are seriously the best for picky eaters or casual get-togethers.

If you like this chicken recipe, then check out my Gochujang Chicken Thighs and Hot Honey Sriracha Chicken!

Ingredients

Chicken Tenderloins: The star of the dish—tender, lean, and perfect for breading.
Flour: Helps the egg and panko stick to the chicken.
Garlic Powder: Adds savory depth right into the breading.
Salt + Black Pepper: Essential seasoning to bring out flavor.
Eggs: Acts as a binder to help the coating adhere.
Panko Breadcrumbs: Extra crispy and light for the perfect crunch.
Soy Sauce: Savory and salty base for the honey butter glaze.
Honey: Adds that signature sticky sweetness.
Garlic: Intensifies the flavor in the sauce.
Cornstarch: Thickens the glaze to coat every piece.
Unsalted Butter: Adds richness and that luscious, velvety finish.

Customizations

Make it Spicy: Add a little chili crisp or sriracha to the honey butter sauce for a heat kick.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and tamari instead of soy sauce.
Baked Version: No air fryer? These are still delicious baked in the oven.

How to Make Honey Butter Chicken Tenders

Set Up the Breading Station

In separate shallow dishes, prepare your flour mixture, beaten eggs, and panko. Dip each chicken tender first into the flour, then egg, then panko—pressing firmly so the coating sticks.

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Honey Butter Chicken Tenders Instructions 5

Cook the Chicken in the Air Fryer

Preheat the air fryer to 400°F. Place the breaded tenders in a single layer (working in batches if needed), and spray generously with oil.

Flip, spray the other side, and air fry for about 10–12 minutes until crispy and cooked through. Make sure internal temperature reaches 165F!

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Make the Honey Butter Sauce

While the chicken cooks, mix soy sauce, honey, garlic, water, and cornstarch in a bowl.

In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat, then pour in the sauce. Stir and cook for 1–2 minutes until the honey butter sauce thickens.

Coat the Chicken

Toss the crispy chicken tenders in the honey butter sauce, turning them gently to get every piece glossy and coated.

Honey Butter Chicken Tenders Instructions 2

Honey Butter Chicken Tenders Instructions 1

Serve It Up

Plate with fluffy rice, veggies, and drizzle on extra sauce if you saved some—you won’t regret it.

Storage

These are best fresh, but leftovers can be stored in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer for best texture.

Tips

Don’t skip the oil spray: It helps the breading crisp up and get that golden finish.
Save extra sauce: It’s great for drizzling over rice or even veggies!

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