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Air Fryer Honey BBQ Chicken Tenders

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These Air Fryer Honey BBQ Chicken Tenders are quick, easy, and perfect for any weeknight meal or snack. With crispy, golden-brown chicken strips coated in a sweet and tangy honey BBQ sauce, these tenders are a healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken. The air fryer creates a crisp exterior while keeping the inside juicy, and the honey BBQ sauce adds the perfect balance of sweetness and smokiness. Ideal for kids and adults alike, these tenders can be enjoyed on their own or in sandwiches and salads.

Ingredients

  • pounds chicken tenders (or boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into strips)
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

For the Honey BBQ Sauce:

  • ½ cup BBQ sauce
  • ¼ cup honey
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder

Instructions

  • Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
  • Prepare the breading station:
    • In a shallow dish, combine flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika.
    • In another shallow dish, beat the eggs.
    • In a third shallow dish, place the breadcrumbs.
  • Bread the chicken:
    • Dip each chicken tender into the flour mixture, ensuring it's evenly coated.
    • Then, dip it into the beaten eggs, followed by the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
  • Air fry the chicken:
    • Arrange the breaded chicken tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket, lightly spraying with cooking spray.
    • Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.
  • Prepare the Honey BBQ Sauce:
    • In a small saucepan, whisk together BBQ sauce, honey, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, and onion powder.
    • Cook over low heat for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
  • Serve:
    • Toss the chicken tenders in the honey BBQ sauce or serve the sauce on the side for dipping.

Notes

  • You can make the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week.
  • For a spicier version, add cayenne pepper to the flour mixture or hot sauce to the honey BBQ sauce.
  • Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs for a gluten-free alternative.