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Crispy chicken tenders have long held a special place in the hearts of comfort food enthusiasts. Their irresistible crunch, combined with succulent, juicy meat, makes them a favorite among both children and adults alike. Whether served as a quick weeknight dinner, a delightful appetizer for game day, or a fun addition to lunch boxes, chicken tenders are versatile and beloved. However, traditional frying methods often lead to excessive oil usage, making them less appealing for health-conscious individuals. This is where the air fryer comes in—a revolutionary kitchen appliance that allows you to achieve that perfect crispy texture without all the added fat.

Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders with Honey Mustard

Discover the joy of Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders with Honey Mustard, a healthier twist on a beloved comfort food. These golden-brown tenders boast a satisfying crunch while remaining juicy inside, all thanks to the air fryer method that reduces oil without sacrificing flavor. Marinated in a flavorful buttermilk blend, each bite is both delicious and wholesome. Serve them with a tangy honey mustard dipping sauce, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. Enjoy a guilt-free treat that brings everyone together!
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Ingredients
  

1 pound chicken tenderloins

1 cup buttermilk

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon paprika

1 teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 cup panko bread crumbs

Cooking spray

For Honey Mustard Sauce:

½ cup mayonnaise

2 tablespoons Dijon mustard

2 tablespoons honey

1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

Salt and black 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 tenderloins, making sure they are fully submerged, and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours for better flavor).

    Prepare the Breading: While the chicken is marinating, set up a breading station. In one shallow dish, place the all-purpose flour. In a second dish, spread out the panko bread crumbs. You can also mix a pinch of salt and pepper into the panko for extra flavor.

      Coat the Chicken: Remove the chicken tenderloins from the buttermilk, letting the excess drip off. First, dredge each tender in the flour, shaking off any excess. Then, dip them back into the buttermilk and finally coat them in the panko bread crumbs, pressing gently to ensure they stick.

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

          Air Fry the Chicken: Place the breaded chicken tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Spray the tops lightly with cooking spray for added crispiness. Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C).

            Prepare the Honey Mustard Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, honey, apple cider vinegar, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the sweetness or tanginess by adding more honey or mustard as desired.

              Serve: Once the chicken tenders are done, remove them from the air fryer and let them rest for a minute. Serve warm with a side of the honey mustard sauce for dipping. Enjoy your crispy goodness!

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 30 minutes | 4 servings