Air Fryer Hot Honey Chicken Tenders Recipe

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Cozy Air Fryer Hot Honey Chicken Tenders Recipe, Made Simple

If you’re looking for a crispy, flavorful dish that’s both comforting and a bit exciting, you’ll love this Air Fryer Hot Honey Chicken Tenders Recipe. I remember the first time I made these—they came out with a perfectly crunchy crust and that irresistible sweet-heat you just can’t stop reaching for. It’s like a warm hug with a little kick at the end. The magic is in the coating: golden crushed cornflakes give you that satisfying crunch without heavy frying, and the hot honey drizzle adds a vibrant layer of flavor that keeps everyone coming back for more. Plus, cooking them in the air fryer means quick cleanup and less oil, so you get all the joy with less mess. Whether you’re making a quick family dinner or a casual weekend snack, this recipe is a total winner. Let’s dive into why it’s so special.

Ingredient Lowdown

• Chicken breasts: Sliced into tenders for quick, even cooking and the perfect bite size.
• Eggs & milk: The glue that helps the crunchy coating stick and adds a little richness.
• Salt, black pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder: These simple spices create a warm, savory foundation with a subtle smoky backdrop.
• Cornflakes: Crushed to coat and crisp up the chicken beautifully without deep-frying.
• Cooking spray or oil: Just a light touch helps the tenders get golden and keep that toasty crunch in the air fryer or oven.
• Store-bought hot honey: A sweet-spicy drizzle that ties the whole dish together. You can swap with your favorite hot sauce-honey blend if you like more heat or different flavor layers.

Set Up for Success

Before you jump into cooking, prep all your ingredients for smooth sailing. Cut your chicken into similar-sized tenders to ensure they cook evenly—this makes a huge difference in texture. Whisk your egg mixture and crush your cornflakes into small but not powdery pieces; you want texture in each bite. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) or the oven to 400°F (200°C), and remember to spray your air fryer basket or line your baking sheet to prevent sticking. A little advance prep goes a long way in this recipe.

Step-by-Step: Air Fryer Hot Honey Chicken Tenders Recipe

1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and spray the basket with cooking spray to avoid sticking. This ensures your chicken cooks evenly with that perfect crisp.
2. Whisk the egg wash. Combine eggs, milk, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and onion powder in a bowl. You’ll love how fragrant and inviting this mixture smells—it’s the flavor booster.
3. Prepare the coating. Crush the cornflakes into small crunchy bits but not powdery. Place these in a shallow dish. These crunchy gems are the secret to that golden crust.
4. Dip each chicken tender
5. Arrange the tenders
6. Air fry for 12-15 minutes,

7. Drizzle with store-bought hot honey
8. Serve immediately

Flavor Twists for Air Fryer Hot Honey Chicken Tenders Recipe

• Add a citrus zing: Toss tenders with a squeeze of fresh lime or lemon juice right before serving to brighten every bite.
• Spicy upgrade: Mix cayenne or chili powder into the egg wash for extra heat if you like it fiery.
• Herbed crunch: Crush some dried thyme or parsley into the cornflakes for a fresh, herbal note.
• Sweet crunch swap: Mix a bit of brown sugar with your cornflakes for a caramelized, sweet layer beneath the hot honey.
• Asian-inspired: Serve with a drizzle of sriracha-honey blend and garnish with sesame seeds for a flavorful twist.

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

• Refrigerate leftovers: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer to keep the crisp.
• Freeze for later: Freeze uncooked tenders on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a zip-top bag. Cook from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cook time.
• Prep your coating: Mix your egg wash and crush cornflakes ahead to save time on busy days.
• Reheating tip: Avoid microwaving as it softens the coating; instead, air fry at 350°F for 3-5 minutes.

Air Fryer Hot Honey Chicken Tenders Recipe FAQs

• Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Absolutely! Just adjust cooking time slightly, as thighs may cook faster.
• What if I don’t have hot honey? Mix honey with your favorite hot sauce or chili flakes to create a similar drizzle.
• Can I make this gluten-free? Yes! Just confirm your cornflakes are gluten-free or swap them with crushed gluten-free cereal.
• How do I ensure the coating stays crispy? Don’t overcrowd the air fryer; cook in batches and flip halfway for even browning.
• Is air frying healthier than baking or frying? Yes, it uses less oil and still gets that crispy finish, making it a great choice for a lighter indulgence.

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