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- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts - 1 cup buttermilk - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon onion powder - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika - 1 teaspoon salt - ½ teaspoon black pepper - 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs - ½ cup all-purpose flour - Cooking spray

Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders with Honey Mustard

Discover the ultimate family favorite with these Crunchy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders served with a delicious honey mustard dip. This easy recipe uses healthy air frying techniques, achieving that irresistible crunch without excess oil. Perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings, these tenders are marinated for flavor and paired with a tangy dip that adds the perfect balance. Enjoy a delicious, guilt-free meal that everyone will love!
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Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Tenders:

1 pound chicken breast, sliced into strips

1 cup buttermilk

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

1 cup Panko breadcrumbs

½ cup all-purpose flour

2 large eggs, beaten

Cooking spray

For the Honey Mustard Dip:

¼ cup Dijon mustard

¼ cup honey

1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine chicken strips with buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cover and let marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour (or up to overnight for more flavor).

    Prepare the Breading Station: Set up three shallow dishes. In the first, place the flour. In the second, add the beaten eggs. In the third, combine Panko breadcrumbs with a pinch of salt and pepper.

      Bread the Chicken Tenders: Remove chicken from the marinade, letting excess buttermilk drip off. Dredge each strip in flour, shaking off the excess. Next, dip in the beaten eggs, ensuring they're well-coated, and finally, press into the Panko breadcrumbs until fully covered.

        Air Fry the Tenders: Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for about 5 minutes. Arrange the breaded chicken tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Spray lightly with cooking spray to help them crisp up. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through until they are golden brown and cooked through.

          Make the Honey Mustard Dip: While the chicken is cooking, whisk together Dijon mustard, honey, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper in a small bowl until smooth. Adjust seasoning to taste.

            Serve and Enjoy: Once the chicken tenders are crispy and fully cooked, remove from the air fryer and let them rest a minute. Serve hot with the honey mustard dip on the side.

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 1 hour marinating | 12 minutes | 4 servings