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In recent years, air fryer recipes have taken the culinary world by storm, revolutionizing how we think about cooking healthier meals without sacrificing flavor. The air fryer, a kitchen appliance that uses hot air circulation to cook food to crispy perfection, has become a staple in many households. Among the most popular air fryer dishes are chicken tenders—a family favorite that can please even the pickiest eaters.

Air Fryer Chicken Tenders with Honey Mustard Dip

Discover the joy of crispy air fryer chicken tenders paired with a sweet and tangy homemade honey mustard dip. This recipe embraces the healthier cooking benefits of air frying, providing a deliciously crunchy exterior while keeping the chicken juicy and tender. With easy-to-follow marinating and breading techniques, plus a customizable dip, these tenders are perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Elevate your meal with this irresistible comfort food that everyone will love.
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Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Tenders:

1 lb chicken breast, cut into strips

1 cup buttermilk

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 cup panko breadcrumbs

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon paprika

½ teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

Cooking spray or olive oil, for spraying

For the Honey Mustard Dip:

½ cup mayonnaise

¼ cup honey

2 tablespoons Dijon mustard

1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

½ teaspoon garlic powder

Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions
 

Marinate the Chicken:

    - In a medium bowl, soak the chicken tenders in buttermilk. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours. This will tenderize the chicken.

      Prepare the Breading:

        - In a shallow dish, mix together the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.

          - In another shallow dish, place the panko breadcrumbs.

            Coat the Chicken:

              - Remove the chicken from the buttermilk, allowing any excess to drip off.

                - First, dredge the chicken tenders in the flour mixture, shaking off the excess.

                  - Next, dip them back into the buttermilk briefly, then press them into the panko breadcrumbs until fully coated.

                    Preheat the Air Fryer:

                      - Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.

                        Air Fry the Chicken:

                          - Spray the basket of the air fryer lightly with cooking spray or brush with olive oil.

                            - Arrange the chicken tenders in a single layer, making sure they don’t touch.

                              - Spray the tops lightly with cooking spray.

                                - Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway, until they are golden brown and cooked through (internal temp should reach 165°F or 74°C).

                                  Make the Honey Mustard Dip:

                                    - In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth. Adjust seasoning to taste.

                                      Serve:

                                        - Once cooked, remove the chicken tenders from the air fryer. Serve hot alongside the honey mustard dip for an irresistible flavor combination!

                                          Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes | Servings: 4