Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders with Honey Mustard Dip

These Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders are a healthier take on a classic favorite. Coated in seasoned breadcrumbs and air-fried to perfection, they come out golden and crunchy on the outside while remaining juicy on the inside. Paired with a homemade honey mustard dip, this recipe is a guaranteed hit for all ages.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Air fryer chicken tenders are a perfect balance of crispiness and flavor without the need for deep frying. They’re simple to prepare, quick to cook, and kid-friendly. Whether you’re serving them as a snack, appetizer, or main course, they’re versatile, satisfying, and healthier than traditional fried tenders.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Chicken tenders or chicken breast cut into strips
• All-purpose flour
• Eggs
• Panko breadcrumbs
• Garlic powder
• Paprika
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Cooking spray

For the honey mustard dip:

• Mayonnaise
• Dijon mustard
• Honey
• Lemon juice

Directions

1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. Set up a dredging station with three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with a mixture of panko, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Dredge each chicken strip in the flour, dip into the egg, then coat thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture.
4. Arrange the coated tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Lightly spray with cooking spray.
5. Cook for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. While the tenders cook, mix all honey mustard dip ingredients in a small bowl until smooth.
7. Serve the chicken tenders warm with the dipping sauce on the side.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 27 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Tenders: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the egg mixture for a spicy twist.
• Parmesan Crust: Add grated Parmesan cheese to the breadcrumb mix for a savory upgrade.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.
• Buttermilk Soak: Marinate chicken in buttermilk for 1 hour before breading for added tenderness.

Storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 4–6 minutes to maintain crispiness. Avoid microwaving if you want to preserve the crunchy texture.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of tenders?

Yes, slice chicken breasts into uniform strips for even cooking and the same tender results.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can bread the tenders ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to a day before air frying.

How do I keep the coating from falling off?

Make sure the chicken is patted dry, and press the breadcrumbs gently but firmly onto the surface.

Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of panko?

Yes, but panko breadcrumbs create a lighter, crispier coating.

Is the honey mustard dip sweet?

The dip has a balanced sweet-tangy flavor. You can adjust the honey and mustard ratios to taste.

Can I freeze these chicken tenders?

Yes. Breaded, uncooked tenders can be frozen on a tray, then transferred to a freezer bag. Cook from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 165°F (74°C).

What side dishes go well with chicken tenders?

Popular choices include fries, coleslaw, roasted veggies, or a simple green salad.

Can I bake these in the oven instead of using an air fryer?

Yes, bake at 425°F (220°C) for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and fully cooked.

What other dips work with chicken tenders?

Ranch, barbecue sauce, buffalo sauce, or garlic aioli all pair well.

Conclusion

Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders with Honey Mustard Dip are a fast, flavorful, and family-friendly meal option. Whether served for dinner, lunch, or as a party appetizer, they offer all the crunch of fried tenders with none of the grease. The homemade honey mustard dip adds the perfect final touch, making this a go-to recipe you’ll want to make again and again.

Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders with Honey Mustard Dip

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Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders are golden and crunchy on the outside while juicy and tender inside. Served with a creamy honey mustard dip, they’re a healthier and faster alternative to deep frying, perfect for weeknight meals or snacks.

• Author: Emma Harper
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Total Time: 27 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Air Frying
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Low Fat

Ingredients

Units USM Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb chicken tenders or boneless chicken breasts cut into strips
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon water
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Cooking spray
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise (for dip)
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard (for dip)
• 1 tablespoon honey (for dip)
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice (for dip)

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Instructions

1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. Set up three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs mixed with water, and one with panko breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
3. Coat each chicken strip in flour, then dip into the egg mixture, and finally coat in the breadcrumb mixture.
4. Place coated chicken tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Lightly spray with cooking spray.
5. Air fry for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
6. While chicken cooks, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, honey, and lemon juice in a small bowl to make the dip.
7. Serve chicken tenders hot with honey mustard dip on the side.

Notes

• For extra crispy tenders, use panko breadcrumbs.
• You can substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise in the dip for a lighter version.
• Add cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mix for a spicy kick.
• Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket—cook in batches if necessary.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 2-3 tenders)
• Calories: 280
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 470mg
• Fat: 11g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 19g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 105mg