These Air-Fried Chicken Tenders are seasoned with garlic powder and paprika, then coated in a crunchy cornflake crust for the perfect crunch. Tossed in a quick and easy homemade honey garlic sauce—no cooking required—they’re a tasty mix of crispy, flavorful, and sweet. If you’re looking for a new go-to meal, these Air-Fried Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders are sure to become a household favorite.

This recipe combines the best of savory and sweet, with a crunchy cornflake coating that adds a great texture to every bite. It’s the kind of dish that works well all year round, whether you’re enjoying a summer picnic or a cozy meal at home. Thanks to the air fryer, you get that golden, crispy finish without the hassle of deep frying, making it a healthier and easier option.

Why you’ll love these Air Fryer Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders

Crispy and Flavorful:
The blend of cornflakes and seasoned chicken creates a delightful crunch in every bite. The garlic and paprika add a savory depth that pairs well with the sweet honey garlic sauce.
Quick and Easy:
With minimal prep time and a straightforward cooking process, this recipe is perfect for busy nights. The air fryer ensures the chicken cooks quickly while staying juicy inside.
Family-Friendly:
This dish is a crowd-pleaser that both kids and adults will enjoy. The balance of flavors makes it a go-to recipe for any meal occasion.

Big Flavors for Busy Nights

Honey and garlic make a perfect duo, especially when paired with crispy chicken that’s easy to whip up. This recipe is all about getting a tasty, full-flavored meal on the table without much fuss. It’s a go-to for those busy nights when you need something satisfying but don’t have time to spend hours in the kitchen. The cornflake coating adds that perfect crunch, while the honey garlic sauce ties it all together, making it a dish that’s both quick and delicious.

Ingredients Needed for Air Fryer Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders

Chicken Tenderloins: These are perfect for this recipe because they cook quickly and stay juicy. If you can’t find tenderloins, you can use chicken breasts sliced into strips.
Cornflakes: These give the chicken a wonderfully crunchy coating. You can crush them by placing them in a zip-top bag and rolling over them with a rolling pin or pulse them in a food processor.
Garlic Powder and Paprika: These spices add a savory depth of flavor that balances the sweetness of the sauce. The garlic powder is a must for that classic garlic taste without the moisture, and paprika gives it a mild kick.
Eggs: These help the cornflakes stick to the chicken, ensuring a crispy exterior.
Honey, Minced Garlic, and Soy Sauce: This trio makes up the sauce. The honey provides sweetness, the minced garlic adds a punch of flavor, and the soy sauce balances it all with its umami taste. Just mix them together in a bowl, and the sauce is ready to go!

How to make Air Fryer Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders

**For more detailed instructions, please refer to the printable recipe card below.**

Toss the Chicken in a bowl with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Dip Each Chicken Piece into the beaten eggs.

Then, roll the chicken in the crushed cornflakes.

Place in Air Fryer in a single layer.

Mix the Sauce by combining honey, minced garlic, and soy sauce

Toss the Chicken in the sauce

Variations

Spicy Honey Garlic Tenders: Add a teaspoon of hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the honey garlic sauce for a spicy kick.
Sesame Honey Garlic Tenders: Sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds into the sauce or over the chicken before serving to add a nutty flavor.
Coconut Crusted Tenders: Mix some unsweetened shredded coconut with the crushed cornflakes for a tropical twist.
BBQ Honey Garlic Tenders: Replace the soy sauce with your favorite BBQ sauce for a smoky, tangy variation.
Gluten-Free Tenders: Use gluten-free cornflakes and tamari instead of soy sauce to make this recipe gluten-free.

Serving Suggestions

Over Rice: Serve these tenders over a bed of steamed rice, letting the sauce seep into the grains for extra flavor.
In a Wrap: Use the chicken tenders to make a wrap with lettuce, tomato, and a drizzle of extra sauce.
With Veggies: Pair these tenders with roasted or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
On a Salad: Slice the tenders and serve them on top of a salad with your favorite dressing for a lighter option.
With Fries: Serve alongside some crispy air fryer or oven-baked fries for a classic combo.

Storage and Freezing

How should I store Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to regain the crispy texture.

Can I freeze Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders?

If you want to freeze the chicken tenders, let them cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to a zip-top bag or airtight container and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat in the air fryer straight from frozen for best results.

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Tips & Tricks

Crush Cornflakes Evenly: For a more even coating, crush the cornflakes until they resemble coarse breadcrumbs. This will ensure every bite is evenly crispy.
Don’t Overcrowd the Air Fryer: Make sure the chicken pieces aren’t touching in the air fryer so they can crisp up evenly. You may need to cook in batches if your air fryer is small.
Season Generously: Don’t be shy with the seasoning on the chicken before coating it. The garlic powder and paprika are what make the chicken flavorful, so make sure every piece is well-seasoned..
Reheating: When reheating leftovers, use the air fryer to bring back the crunch instead of microwaving, which can make the chicken soggy.

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FAQ

Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenderloins?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts. Just slice them into strips that resemble tenderloins for even cooking.
Can I make these chicken tenders in the oven instead of the air fryer?
Yes! Bake them at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re crispy and cooked through.
What can I use instead of cornflakes?
Panko breadcrumbs or crushed crackers can work as a substitute, but they won’t give the exact same crunch as cornflakes.
Is there a way to make these tenders spicier?
Yes! Add some hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the egg mixture or sprinkle red pepper flakes into the cornflake coating for some heat.
Can I prepare these ahead of time?
You can coat the chicken in the cornflakes and refrigerate them for a few hours before cooking. Just make sure to bring them to room temperature before air frying for even cooking.
How long can I store the sauce?
The sauce can be stored in the fridge for up to a week. Just give it a good stir before using it again.
Can I use honey alternatives like maple syrup or agave?
Yes, both maple syrup and agave can be used, but they will slightly alter the flavor of the sauce. Honey gives the best result in terms of taste.
What sides go well with this dish?
Steamed veggies, mashed potatoes, or a simple salad are great sides that complement the flavors of the chicken.
How do I keep the cornflake coating from falling off?
Press the cornflakes firmly onto the chicken after dipping it in the egg mixture, and let the coated chicken rest for a few minutes before air frying. This helps the coating adhere better.