Air Fryer Chicken Tenders with Honey Mustard Sauce Recipe

Okay, let’s get those delicious Air Fryer Chicken Tenders with Honey Mustard Sauce onto the page! This recipe is an absolute game-changer in our household. The kids, who can be notoriously picky, devour these tenders like they’re going out of style, and my partner and I love them because they’re so much healthier than their deep-fried counterparts, without sacrificing any of that craveable crispiness. The air fryer works its magic, creating a beautifully golden and crunchy exterior while keeping the chicken inside incredibly juicy and tender. And the honey mustard sauce? It’s the perfect blend of sweet, tangy, and creamy – so good, you’ll want to put it on everything! We’ve made these for quick weeknight dinners, game day snacks, and even chopped them up for salads. They’re versatile, easy, and consistently a hit. I’m thrilled to share this family-favorite with you!

Ingredients for Air Fryer Chicken Tenders with Honey Mustard Sauce

This recipe is designed to be straightforward, using ingredients you likely already have or can easily find. We’ll break down the ingredients into two main components: the chicken tenders themselves and the star of the show, the homemade honey mustard dipping sauce.

For the Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders:

• Chicken:
  • 1.5 lbs (about 680g) boneless, skinless chicken tenderloins (or chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch thick strips)
• For the Breading Station:
  • Bowl 1 (Flour Dredge):
    • 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
    • 1 teaspoon salt
    • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
    • 1 teaspoon paprika (sweet or smoked, your preference)
    • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
    • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • Bowl 2 (Egg Wash):
    • 2 large eggs
    • 1 tablespoon water or milk
  • Bowl 3 (Crispy Coating):
    • 1.5 cups (90g) panko breadcrumbs (these are key for extra crispiness)
    • 1/2 cup (40g) grated Parmesan cheese (optional, but adds great flavor)
    • 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley (optional, for color and subtle flavor)
• For Air Frying:
  • Olive oil spray or avocado oil spray (essential for achieving that golden-brown color and extra crisp)

For the Homemade Honey Mustard Sauce:

• Creamy Base & Sweetness:
  • 1/2 cup (120g) mayonnaise (good quality, full-fat recommended for best flavor and texture)
  • 1/4 cup (85g) honey (runny honey works best; adjust to your preferred sweetness)
• Tang & Spice:
  • 3 tablespoons Dijon mustard (provides a nice tang and depth)
  • 1 tablespoon yellow mustard (classic bright flavor)
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice (for a bit of acidity to balance the richness)
• Seasoning (Optional but Recommended):
  • Pinch of salt
  • Pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce (optional, for a little kick)
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional, for an extra flavor dimension)

Having these components ready will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable. The combination of seasoned flour, egg wash, and panko breadcrumbs creates a multi-layered coating that crisps up beautifully in the air fryer. The honey mustard sauce, with its simple yet perfectly balanced ingredients, is the ideal accompaniment.

Instructions

Follow these step-by-step instructions to create perfectly crispy air fryer chicken tenders and a delicious, tangy honey mustard sauce. This process is broken down into preparing the chicken, making the sauce, and finally, air frying to golden perfection.

1. Prepare the Honey Mustard Sauce (Make this first so flavors can meld):

• Combine Ingredients: In a small to medium-sized mixing bowl, add the mayonnaise, honey, Dijon mustard, yellow mustard, and apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice).
• Whisk Thoroughly: Whisk all the ingredients together until completely smooth and well combined. Ensure there are no lumps of mayonnaise or mustard.
• Season and Adjust (Optional): Stir in the pinch of salt, cayenne pepper (if using), and garlic powder (if using). Taste the sauce. This is your chance to adjust the seasonings to your preference. Need it sweeter? Add a touch more honey. Tangier? A little more Dijon or vinegar. Spicier? A bit more cayenne.
• Chill: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the sauce to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 15-30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. The sauce can be made up to 3-4 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

2. Prepare the Chicken Tenders:

• Pat Chicken Dry: If you’re using chicken tenderloins, they are usually ready to go. If using chicken breasts, cut them lengthwise into 1-inch thick strips, similar in size to tenderloins. Regardless of the cut, pat the chicken pieces thoroughly dry with paper towels. This is a crucial step as it helps the breading adhere better and promotes crispiness.
• Set Up Breading Station: You’ll need three shallow dishes or plates for an efficient breading process.
  • Dish 1 (Flour Mixture): In the first dish, combine the all-purpose flour, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Whisk them together until evenly distributed.
  • Dish 2 (Egg Wash): In the second dish, crack the two large eggs and add the tablespoon of water or milk. Whisk vigorously until the yolks and whites are fully combined and slightly frothy.
  • Dish 3 (Panko Coating): In the third dish, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese (if using), and dried parsley (if using). Mix them well.

3. Bread the Chicken Tenders:

• Work One by One: Take one piece of chicken at a time. This ensures each tender is evenly coated.
• Dredge in Flour: First, dredge the chicken tender in the seasoned flour mixture (Dish 1). Make sure it’s coated on all sides. Gently shake off any excess flour. This dry layer helps the egg wash stick.
• Dip in Egg Wash: Next, dip the flour-coated tender into the egg wash (Dish 2), ensuring it’s completely moistened. Allow any excess egg to drip off for a few seconds.
• Coat with Panko: Finally, transfer the egg-washed tender to the panko breadcrumb mixture (Dish 3). Press the panko firmly onto all sides of the chicken to ensure a thick, even coating. This pressing action is key for a super crispy result.
• Set Aside: Place the breaded chicken tender on a clean plate or a wire rack. Repeat this process with all the remaining chicken pieces. If you have space, try not to let the breaded tenders touch too much, as this can make the breading clump or fall off.

4. Air Fry the Chicken Tenders:

• Preheat Air Fryer (Highly Recommended): Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3-5 minutes. Preheating helps the tenders start cooking and crisping immediately.
• Arrange in Basket: Lightly spray the inside of your air fryer basket with olive oil or avocado oil spray. This prevents sticking and helps with browning.
• Single Layer is Key: Carefully arrange the breaded chicken tenders in a single layer in the preheated air fryer basket. Do NOT overcrowd the basket. Overcrowding will cause the chicken to steam rather than crisp, and they won’t cook evenly. You may need to cook the tenders in two or more batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
• Spray the Tenders: Lightly spray the tops of the chicken tenders with more olive oil or avocado oil spray. This is crucial for achieving that beautiful golden-brown color and extra crispiness, mimicking the effect of deep frying without the excess oil.
• Cook: Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 10-14 minutes, flipping the tenders halfway through the cooking time (around the 5-7 minute mark).
• Check for Doneness: Cooking time can vary slightly depending on the thickness of your chicken tenders and your specific air fryer model. The chicken tenders are done when they are golden brown and crispy on the outside, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer in the thickest part of a tender.
• Repeat if Necessary: If cooking in batches, remove the cooked tenders to a plate (you can keep them warm in a low oven if desired) and repeat the air frying process with the remaining breaded chicken. Remember to spray the basket and the new batch of tenders with oil.

5. Serve and Enjoy:

• Once all the chicken tenders are cooked, serve them immediately while they are hot and crispy.
• Accompany with the chilled homemade honey mustard sauce for dipping.
• Enjoy your delicious, healthier, and incredibly satisfying meal!

By following these detailed steps, you’ll master the art of making air fryer chicken tenders that rival any restaurant version, all from the comfort of your kitchen.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: This recipe yields approximately 4-6 servings, depending on appetite and what they are served with. If making 1.5 lbs of chicken, and considering an average serving size of 4-6 oz of cooked chicken per person, this would comfortably serve 4 people as a main course, or 6 as a lighter meal or appetizer.
• Calories per serving (approximate):
  • Chicken Tenders (per serving, assuming 4 servings): Approximately 350-450 calories. This can vary based on the exact size of the tenders, the amount of breading that adheres, and the type/amount of oil spray used.
  • Honey Mustard Sauce (per 2-tablespoon serving): Approximately 100-150 calories, largely dependent on the mayonnaise and honey quantities.

Please Note: These nutritional values are estimates. Actual values can vary based on specific ingredient brands, exact quantities used, and variations in chicken tender size. The use of Parmesan cheese and the amount of oil spray will also influence the final calorie count. For precise nutritional information, it’s recommended to use an online recipe calculator with your specific ingredients and quantities.

This recipe provides a good source of lean protein from the chicken. By air frying, you significantly reduce the amount of fat compared to traditional deep-fried chicken tenders. The panko breadcrumbs offer a satisfying crunch with less oil absorption.

Preparation Time

Understanding the time commitment helps in planning your meal. Here’s a breakdown:

• Sauce Preparation Time: 5-7 minutes (for mixing and initial chilling)
• Chicken Preparation & Breading Time: 15-20 minutes (for patting dry, setting up stations, and breading all tenders)
• Air Fryer Preheat Time: 3-5 minutes
• Cook Time (per batch): 10-14 minutes (if you need to cook in two batches, this will be 20-28 minutes total cooking, but you can prep other things during the first batch)
• Total Active Preparation Time: Approximately 20-27 minutes (sauce prep + chicken breading)
• Total Cook Time (including preheat and potential multiple batches): Approximately 15-35 minutes
• Overall Time (from start to finish, assuming one batch): Approximately 35-45 minutes
• Overall Time (from start to finish, assuming two batches): Approximately 50-65 minutes

This makes it a relatively quick meal, perfect for weeknights when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. The honey mustard sauce can also be made ahead of time to save a few minutes on the day of cooking.

How to Serve

Air Fryer Chicken Tenders are wonderfully versatile! Here are some fantastic ways to serve them, ensuring they shine as the star of the meal or a delightful snack:

• Classic Dipping Experience:
  • Serve hot and crispy tenders directly from the air fryer.
  • Provide generous bowls of the Homemade Honey Mustard Sauce for dipping.
  • Other Dipping Sauce Options:
    • Classic Ranch Dressing
    • Smoky BBQ Sauce
    • Sweet Chili Sauce
    • Spicy Ketchup or Sriracha Mayo
    • Garlic Aioli
• As a Main Course with Sides:
  • French Fries: A classic pairing! Make air fryer french fries for a fully air-fried meal, or opt for sweet potato fries.
  • Roasted Vegetables:
    • Air fryer broccoli or asparagus
    • Roasted Brussels sprouts
    • A medley of roasted root vegetables
  • Fresh Salads:
    • Creamy coleslaw
    • A simple green salad with vinaigrette
    • Caesar salad (you can even chop the tenders and add them to the salad)
  • Comfort Sides:
    • Macaroni and cheese
    • Corn on the cob
    • Mashed potatoes
• In Sandwiches or Wraps:
  • Chicken Tender Wrap: Slice the tenders and wrap them in a warm tortilla with lettuce, tomato, cheese, and a drizzle of honey mustard or ranch.
  • Chicken Tender Sandwich/Sub: Place tenders on a hoagie roll or slider buns with your favorite sandwich toppings.
• On Top of Salads:
  • Create a hearty Crispy Chicken Salad. Chop the cooked tenders and add them to a bed of mixed greens with cucumber, tomatoes, carrots, red onion, cheese, and croutons. Drizzle with honey mustard dressing or your favorite salad dressing.
• For Kids’ Meals:
  • Serve with kid-friendly sides like apple slices, carrot sticks, tater tots, or a fruit cup.
  • The honey mustard sauce is generally very kid-approved.
• As an Appetizer or Party Food:
  • Arrange them on a platter with various dipping sauces for a crowd-pleasing appetizer during gatherings or game days.
  • Cut them into smaller, bite-sized pieces for easier mingling.
• With Grains:
  • Serve alongside a portion of fluffy quinoa, rice pilaf, or couscous for a more complete meal.

No matter how you choose to serve them, these air fryer chicken tenders are sure to be a hit due to their crispy texture and juicy interior, perfectly complemented by the tangy and sweet honey mustard sauce.

Additional Tips

To ensure your Air Fryer Chicken Tenders turn out perfectly every time, here are five additional tips:

1. Don’t Skip Patting the Chicken Dry: This might seem like a small step, but it’s crucial. Excess moisture on the chicken will prevent the flour from adhering properly, which in turn affects how well the egg wash and panko stick. Drier chicken leads to a crispier coating. Use paper towels and pat each tenderloin thoroughly before starting the breading process.
2. Optimize Your Breading Technique: For the best coating, use the “dry hand, wet hand” method. Dedicate one hand for handling the chicken when it’s in the dry flour and panko mixtures, and the other hand for when it’s in the wet egg wash. This prevents your fingers from becoming caked with breading, leading to a cleaner process and more even coating on the chicken. Also, really press the panko breadcrumbs onto the chicken to ensure they stick well during air frying.
3. Ensure Proper Oil Spray Coverage: While air frying uses significantly less oil than deep frying, a light coating of oil spray (like olive or avocado oil) is essential for achieving that desirable golden-brown color and ultimate crispiness. Spray the air fryer basket to prevent sticking, and then lightly spray the tops of the breaded tenders before cooking. When you flip them halfway, you can give the other side a quick spray too if it looks dry.
4. Invest in a Meat Thermometer: The suggested cooking times are a guideline, but air fryer models vary, and chicken tender thickness can differ. The only way to guarantee your chicken is cooked through (reaching an internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C) without overcooking and drying it out is by using an instant-read meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of a tender to check.
5. Reheating for Optimal Crispness: Leftover chicken tenders are great, but they can lose their crispness in the refrigerator. To bring them back to life, avoid the microwave, which will make them soggy. Instead, preheat your air fryer to 350-375°F (175-190°C) and reheat the tenders for 3-5 minutes, or until warmed through and crispy again. You can also reheat them in a conventional oven on a wire rack.

By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll elevate your air fryer chicken tender game from good to absolutely amazing!

FAQ Section (5 Q/A)

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about making Air Fryer Chicken Tenders with Honey Mustard Sauce:

Q1: Can I use frozen chicken tenderloins for this recipe?
A1: It’s best to use thawed chicken tenderloins. If you only have frozen ones, you must thaw them completely before starting the recipe. Pat them very dry after thawing, as they will release more moisture. Breading frozen chicken directly will result in an unevenly cooked, potentially soggy tender with breading that doesn’t adhere well. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave (being careful not to cook them).

Q2: How can I make these chicken tenders gluten-free?
A2: Absolutely! To make gluten-free air fryer chicken tenders, you’ll need to substitute a few ingredients.
* Flour: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular all-purpose flour for the initial dredge.
* Breadcrumbs: Use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs or crush gluten-free cornflakes or rice cakes for a crispy coating.
* Ensure all your seasonings and your Parmesan cheese (if using) are certified gluten-free.
The rest of the recipe and the honey mustard sauce ingredients are typically gluten-free, but always double-check labels if you have celiac disease or severe gluten sensitivity.

Q3: My chicken tenders aren’t getting crispy. What am I doing wrong?
A3: Several factors can contribute to less-than-crispy tenders:
* Overcrowding: This is the most common culprit. If the air fryer basket is too full, the hot air can’t circulate properly, causing the chicken to steam instead of crisp. Cook in batches.
* Not Enough Oil Spray: A light spray of oil helps the breading crisp up and turn golden. Make sure to spray the tenders before cooking.
* Not Preheating: Preheating the air fryer ensures the tenders start crisping immediately.
* Breading Issues: Ensure the chicken was patted dry, and that you pressed the panko breadcrumbs firmly onto the chicken.
* Air Fryer Model: Some older or less powerful air fryers might not achieve the same level of crispness. You might need to slightly increase cook time or temperature (but watch closely to prevent burning).

Q4: How do I store leftover chicken tenders and honey mustard sauce, and how long do they last?
A4:
* Chicken Tenders: Allow the cooked chicken tenders to cool completely. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For reheating, use the air fryer (see “Additional Tips”) or an oven to maintain crispness.
* Honey Mustard Sauce: Store the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for up to 5-7 days, or by the expiry date of your mayonnaise, whichever is sooner. The flavors may even improve after a day or two. Give it a good stir before serving.

Q5: Can I bake these chicken tenders in a conventional oven instead of an air fryer?
A5: Yes, you can bake them, though they might not get quite as uniformly crispy as in an air fryer. To bake:
* Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
* Place a wire rack on top of a baking sheet. This allows air to circulate around the tenders for better crisping.
* Arrange the breaded chicken tenders in a single layer on the wire rack. Spray them lightly with oil.
* Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping them halfway through, or until golden brown, crispy, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
The wire rack is key to preventing a soggy bottom.

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