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Chicken tenders are a beloved comfort food, cherished by both children and adults alike. Their crispy exterior and tender, juicy interior make them a go-to choice for family dinners, game day snacks, or even quick weeknight meals. Traditionally deep-fried, chicken tenders can often be heavy and greasy, which is why many people are seeking healthier alternatives without sacrificing taste. Enter the air fryer—a revolutionary kitchen appliance that has transformed the way we cook our favorite fried foods.

Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders with Honey Mustard

Discover the deliciousness of crispy air fryer chicken tenders, a healthier twist on a beloved comfort food. These tender, juicy tenders feature a perfectly crisp coating, thanks to the magic of air frying. With minimal oil, you can indulge guilt-free, especially when paired with a sweet and tangy honey mustard dipping sauce. Perfect for family dinners or game day snacks, this easy recipe promises all the flavor without the heaviness of traditional frying. Dive into a healthier way to enjoy your favorite meal today!
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Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Tenders:

1 pound chicken breast tenders

1 cup buttermilk

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon paprika

½ teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)

½ cup all-purpose flour

2 large eggs, beaten

For the Honey Mustard Dipping Sauce:

¼ cup Dijon mustard

¼ cup honey

1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

½ teaspoon garlic powder

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

Marinate the Chicken:

    - In a bowl, combine the buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken tenders, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight for maximum flavor.

      Prepare the Breading Station:

        - Set up three shallow bowls:

          - In the first bowl, place the flour.

            - In the second bowl, add the beaten eggs.

              - In the third bowl, put the breadcrumbs.

                Bread the Chicken:

                  - Remove the marinated chicken from the refrigerator. Dredge each tender in flour, shaking off the excess, then dip into the beaten eggs, and coat evenly with breadcrumbs. Place the breaded chicken tenders on a plate or baking tray.

                    Preheat the Air Fryer:

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

                        Air Fry the Chicken Tenders:

                          - Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Arrange the chicken tenders in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the basket. Spray the tops lightly with olive oil or cooking spray for extra crispiness.

                            - Cook for about 10-12 minutes, flipping the tenders halfway through, until golden brown and crispy. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

                              Prepare the Honey Mustard Sauce:

                                - While the chicken is cooking, mix together the Dijon mustard, honey, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper in a small bowl. Adjust the taste by adding more honey for sweetness or more mustard for tanginess according to your preference.

                                  Serve:

                                    - Once cooked, remove the chicken tenders from the air fryer and serve them hot alongside the honey mustard dipping sauce.

                                      Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 min | 1 hr 15 min (including marination) | 4 servings