Ultra-Crispy Air Fryer Honey Buffalo Chicken Tenders (Sweet & Spicy Crunch)

🛒 Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs (680g) fresh chicken breast tenderloins (tendons removed)
• 1 cup buttermilk (or 1 cup milk + 1 tbsp lemon juice)
• 1 tsp garlic powder, divided
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp kosher salt, divided
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1.5 cups Japanese panko breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• Olive oil cooking spray
• 1/3 cup Frank's RedHot sauce
• 1/3 cup clover honey
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• Ranch dressing or blue cheese for dipping

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

1. 1
   Place chicken tenders in a bowl with buttermilk, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, and 1/2 tsp salt. Let soak for 15 to 30 minutes in the fridge.
2. 2
   Set up three breading stations: Bowl 1 with flour, remaining salt, and paprika; Bowl 2 with beaten eggs; Bowl 3 with panko breadcrumbs mixed with remaining garlic powder.
3. 3
   Remove each tender from the buttermilk, dredge lightly in flour, dip completely in beaten egg, then press firmly into the panko breadcrumbs to coat thoroughly.
4. 4
   Preheat your air fryer to 390°F (200°C) for 3 minutes. Lightly spray the basket with olive oil.
5. 5
   Arrange breaded tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket without overlapping. Spray the tops generously with olive oil spray (this ensures a golden crunch).
6. 6
   Air fry at 390°F for 10 to 12 minutes, flipping halfway through and spraying the other side, until golden-brown and the internal temp registers 165°F (74°C).
7. 7
   While tenders air fry, whisk together the melted butter, Frank's RedHot, and honey in a large heatproof bowl until silky and emulsified.
8. 8
   Transfer hot tenders into the bowl, drizzle the honey buffalo glaze over top, and gently toss to coat. Serve immediately with chilled ranch dressing!

🥗 Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)