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Air Fryer Chicken Tenders with Honey Mustard
Crunchy, golden chicken tenders made in the air fryer with a three-ingredient honey mustard dip.
Prep15 min
Cook12 min
Total27 min
Serves4
Gear: Air fryer (or oven and wire rack)
The restaurant secret
Chicken tenders are on nearly every American kids' menu — and plenty of grown-ups order them too. The air fryer makes them crisp with just a spray of oil. A quick buttermilk soak keeps the chicken juicy.
How to make it
- Combine the chicken, buttermilk and seasonings in a bowl and let sit for at least 10 minutes (or up to 8 hours in the refrigerator).
- Mix the panko and cornflakes in a shallow dish. Lift each tender from the buttermilk, let excess drip off, and press into the crumbs to coat.
- Arrange in a single layer in the air fryer basket without overlapping. Spray the tops lightly with oil.
- Air fry at 400°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and the thickest piece reaches 165°F. Cook in batches if needed.
- Stir together the honey mustard ingredients and serve with the tenders.
Technique tip
Don't crowd the basket. Hot air needs to circulate around each piece for even crunch — two quick batches beat one soggy one.
Swaps & options
- No air fryer? Bake on a wire rack set over a sheet pan at 425°F for 15–18 minutes.
- Swap honey mustard for barbecue or ranch.
Serve it with
- Serve with carrot sticks and air-fried potato wedges.
- Reheat in the air fryer at 375°F for 3–4 minutes.
Safety & allergens: Cook chicken to 165°F. Honey should not be given to infants under 1 year old. Contains milk, wheat and egg (mayonnaise). Always check ingredient labels. See our disclaimer.
This is an original home recipe inspired by a popular restaurant style. Tasty Food Deal is not affiliated with any restaurant.