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Chicken tenders have long been a beloved dish across many households and restaurants, celebrated for their tenderness, versatility, and kid-friendly appeal. Whether served as a quick weeknight dinner, a satisfying snack, or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, chicken tenders remain a staple in many culinary traditions. Their mild flavor allows them to pair beautifully with a variety of sauces and seasonings, making them a canvas for endless creativity in the kitchen.

Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders with Honey Mustard

Indulge in the delicious Crunchy Honey Mustard Air Fryer Chicken Tenders, a healthier twist on a classic favorite! This recipe showcases juicy chicken tenders marinated in buttermilk for optimal tenderness, then coated with flavorful panko breadcrumbs for that perfect crunch. Paired with a sweet and tangy honey mustard dipping sauce, these tenders are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a crowd-pleasing appetizer. Easy to make and oh-so-satisfying!
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Ingredients
  

1 lb chicken tenders

1 cup buttermilk

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 cup panko breadcrumbs

1 teaspoon paprika

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

½ teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)

Cooking spray or olive oil spray

For the Honey Mustard Dipping Sauce:

¼ cup mayonnaise

¼ cup honey

2 tablespoons Dijon mustard

1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

Marinate the Chicken: In a medium bowl, add the chicken tenders and pour in the buttermilk. Ensure all the pieces are well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours for best flavor).

    Prepare the Breading: In one bowl, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne (if using). In a separate bowl, place the panko breadcrumbs.

      Coat the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off. Dredge each tender in the seasoned flour mixture and shake off the excess. Then, coat it in the panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure they stick well.

        Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.

          Air Fry the Chicken: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Arrange the coated chicken tenders in a single layer, making sure they are not overcrowded. Lightly spray the tops of the tenders with more cooking spray.

            Cooking Time: Air fry the chicken tenders for 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy. Cooking times may vary based on your air fryer model, so check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

              Make the Dipping Sauce: While the chicken cooks, prepare the honey mustard sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.

                Serve: Once the chicken tenders are crispy and cooked through, remove them from the air fryer and serve hot with the honey mustard dipping sauce on the side.

                  Prep Time: 10 min | Cook Time: 12 min | Total Time: 42 min | Servings: 4