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Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders in the Air Fryer: A Delightful Treat

If you’re seeking a quick and tasty meal that the whole family will enjoy, look no further than honey garlic chicken tenders cooked in the air fryer. This dish beautifully combines the sweet richness of honey with the savoury depth of garlic, creating a flavour-packed experience that’s hard to resist. Moreover, cooking in an air fryer ensures that these tenders come out perfectly crispy without the need for excess oil, making them a healthier option compared to traditional frying.

Ingredients

To prepare honey garlic chicken tenders, you will need the following ingredients:

• For the Chicken Tenders:

  • 500g chicken breast fillets, sliced into strips
  • 100g plain flour
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • 200g breadcrumbs (panko breadcrumbs are preferred for extra crunch)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • A pinch of paprika (optional for added flavour)
• For the Honey Garlic Sauce:
  • 4 tablespoons honey
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (or rice vinegar)
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (to thicken)
  • Sesame seeds and chopped spring onions for garnish (optional)

Method

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Tenders

1. Begin by seasoning the chicken strips with salt, pepper, and paprika in a bowl.
2. Set up a breading station: Place the flour in one bowl, the beaten egg in a second bowl, and the breadcrumbs in a third bowl.
3. Dip each chicken strip first into the flour, shaking off any excess, before immersing it in the egg. Finally, coat the chicken in the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure the coating adheres well.

Step 2: Air Fry the Chicken Tenders

1. Preheat your air fryer according to the manufacturer’s instructions, typically around 200°C (390°F).
2. Arrange the breaded chicken strips in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Lightly spray or brush them with oil to promote crispiness.
3. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning the chicken tenders halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning. The tenders should be golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F).

Step 3: Prepare the Honey Garlic Sauce

1. While the chicken is cooking, you can prepare the honey garlic sauce. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, and apple cider vinegar. Stir until the mixture begins to simmer.
2. Add the cornstarch slurry to the saucepan, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens. This should take about 1-2 minutes. Once thickened, remove from heat and set aside.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

1. Once the chicken tenders are cooked, transfer them to a large bowl. Drizzle the honey garlic sauce over the tenders and toss gently to coat all pieces evenly.
2. Serve your honey garlic chicken tenders hot, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped spring onions if desired. They make a fantastic main dish accompanied by rice or noodles, or can even be enjoyed as a crispy appetiser or snack.

Conclusion

Honey garlic chicken tenders cooked in the air fryer are a delightful fusion of flavours that are sure to please everyone at the dinner table. Not only are they easy to make, but they also highlight the wonderful capabilities of the air fryer, delivering crispy results in no time at all. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just treating yourself, these tenders are a fantastic option to satisfy your taste buds. Enjoy this simple yet delicious recipe and indulge in the mouth-watering combination of sweet and savoury!