AIR FRYER CRISPY HONEY SRIRACHA BBQ CHICKEN TENDERS

The AIR FRYER CRISPY HONEY SRIRACHA BBQ CHICKEN TENDERS are a delightful dish that combines sweet and spicy flavors, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re planning a family dinner, hosting a game night, or simply craving a tasty snack, these chicken tenders are sure to impress. Their crispy texture, achieved through the air fryer, sets them apart from traditional frying methods, delivering a guilt-free indulgence that’s both satisfying and delicious.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy Preparation: These chicken tenders come together in just 25 minutes, making them a fantastic choice for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of honey, Sriracha, and BBQ sauce creates a mouthwatering blend of sweet and spicy that will leave your taste buds dancing.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy them as an appetizer, main course, or even as a party snack. They’re great for any gathering!
• Healthier Alternative: Cooking in an air fryer means less oil is used compared to traditional frying, giving you a crispy finish without the extra calories.
• Kid-Friendly: The appealing flavor profile and crunch make these chicken tenders perfect for kids and adults alike.

Tools and Preparation

To create these delicious chicken tenders, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Air fryer
• Three shallow bowls
• Whisk
• Cooking spray
• Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Air fryer: This tool is key to achieving that perfect crispy texture without deep frying.
• Three shallow bowls: They help in organizing the breading process efficiently.
• Whisk: Perfect for mixing sauces smoothly without lumps.
• Tongs: Essential for flipping the chicken tenders easily during cooking.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Tenders

• 1 pound chicken tenders
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
• ½ teaspoon paprika

For the Sauce

• ½ cup honey
• 3 tablespoons Sriracha sauce
• 2 tablespoons BBQ sauce
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

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How to Make AIR FRYER CRISPY HONEY SRIRACHA BBQ CHICKEN TENDERS

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels. Season them with salt, pepper, and paprika to enhance their flavor.

Step 2: Coat the Chicken

Set up your breading station with three shallow bowls:
1. Fill one bowl with flour.
2. Place the beaten eggs in the second bowl.
3. Put panko breadcrumbs in the third bowl.

Dredge each chicken tender in flour first. Then dip it into the beaten eggs before coating it fully with panko breadcrumbs.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together honey, Sriracha sauce, BBQ sauce, and olive oil until well combined and smooth.

Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for approximately 5 minutes so it’s ready when you are.

Step 5: Air Fry the Chicken

Arrange your breaded chicken tenders in a single layer within the air fryer basket. Lightly spray them with cooking spray. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through until they turn crispy and golden brown.

Step 6: Glaze the Chicken

During the last 2 minutes of cooking time, generously brush the chicken tenders with your honey Sriracha BBQ sauce.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Once cooked thoroughly, remove the chicken tenders from the air fryer. Drizzle any remaining sauce on top for added flavor. Serve warm alongside your favorite sides or dipping sauces!

How to Serve AIR FRYER CRISPY HONEY SRIRACHA BBQ CHICKEN TENDERS

These delicious chicken tenders are versatile and can be served in various exciting ways. Whether you want them as a snack, an appetizer, or part of a meal, here are some great serving suggestions.

With Dipping Sauces

• Ranch Dressing: A cool and creamy complement to the spicy notes of the chicken.
• Blue Cheese Sauce: Adds a tangy flavor that pairs well with the sweetness of the honey.
• Extra Sriracha: For those who crave more heat, drizzle some extra Sriracha on top.

In a Wrap

• Lettuce Wraps: Use large lettuce leaves to create a fresh wrap filled with chicken tenders and veggies.
• Tortilla Wraps: Roll up the chicken tenders with your favorite toppings like avocado, cheese, and salsa for a satisfying meal.

On a Salad

• Crispy Chicken Salad: Slice the tenders and place them over mixed greens with cherry tomatoes and a light vinaigrette.
• Asian-Inspired Salad: Combine the chicken tenders with cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing for an Asian twist.

How to Perfect AIR FRYER CRISPY HONEY SRIRACHA BBQ CHICKEN TENDERS

To achieve the perfect balance of crispy texture and flavor in your chicken tenders, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko provides a light and crunchy coating that enhances crispiness.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: Arrange tenders in a single layer for even cooking; this ensures they get crispy all around.
• Preheat Your Air Fryer: Always preheat your air fryer for optimal cooking results, which helps achieve that golden-brown color.
• Adjust Cooking Time Based on Size: Larger tenders may need additional cooking time; ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
• Spray Lightly with Oil: A quick spray of cooking oil can help achieve a golden crust without unnecessary calories.
• Let Them Rest: Allow cooked tenders to rest for a few minutes before serving; this helps retain their juiciness.

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Best Side Dishes for AIR FRYER CRISPY HONEY SRIRACHA BBQ CHICKEN TENDERS

Pairing side dishes with your crispy honey Sriracha BBQ chicken tenders elevates your meal. Here are some fantastic options to consider.

1. Coleslaw: A crunchy side that adds freshness; consider using a vinegar-based dressing for contrast.
2. Sweet Potato Fries: Their natural sweetness perfectly balances the spiciness of the chicken tenders.
3. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn adds vibrant color and complements the flavors well.
4. Macaroni and Cheese: This comfort food classic brings creaminess that pairs beautifully with crispy chicken.
5. Baked Beans: A savory side dish that adds depth to your meal with its smoky flavors.
6. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables roasted until tender makes for a healthy option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making AIR FRYER CRISPY HONEY SRIRACHA BBQ CHICKEN TENDERS, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls for the best results.

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning the chicken before breading can lead to bland tenders. Always season with salt, pepper, and paprika for added flavor.
• Overcrowding the air fryer: Placing too many chicken tenders in the air fryer can prevent even cooking. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure crispiness.
• Neglecting the breading station: Forgetting to set up a proper breading station can make coating difficult. Use three shallow bowls for flour, eggs, and panko breadcrumbs.
• Not preheating the air fryer: Failing to preheat can result in uneven cooking. Always preheat your air fryer according to the manufacturer’s instructions for optimal results.
• Skipping sauce application: Skipping the glaze step may lead to less flavorful chicken. Brush on the honey Sriracha BBQ sauce in the last two minutes of cooking for a delicious finish.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cooked chicken tenders in an airtight container.
• They can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing AIR FRYER CRISPY HONEY SRIRACHA BBQ CHICKEN TENDERS

• Place cooled chicken tenders in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating AIR FRYER CRISPY HONEY SRIRACHA BBQ CHICKEN TENDERS

• Oven: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for about 10-12 minutes until heated through and crispy.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals until warm, but be aware that they may lose crispiness.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a little oil for about 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What makes AIR FRYER CRISPY HONEY SRIRACHA BBQ CHICKEN TENDERS crispy?

The combination of panko breadcrumbs and air frying creates a light and crispy texture without excessive oil.

Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead of tenders?

Yes, boneless chicken thighs work well too! Just adjust cooking time as they may require slightly longer than tender cuts.

How spicy are these AIR FRYER CRISPY HONEY SRIRACHA BBQ CHICKEN TENDERS?

The spiciness level depends on how much Sriracha you add. Feel free to adjust according to your taste preferences!

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour mix and use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs.

Final Thoughts

These AIR FRYER CRISPY HONEY SRIRACHA BBQ CHICKEN TENDERS are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them by adjusting spice levels or trying different sauces. Perfect as an appetizer or main dish, they’re sure to please everyone at your table!