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These Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders are packed with flavor thanks to a homemade honey mustard coating and a crunchy layer of crushed potato chips. This recipe transforms simple chicken tenders into a crispy, juicy meal that feels both indulgent and quick to prepare.
I first whipped up this recipe on a whim during a hectic evening, and it instantly became a family favorite. Even picky eaters ask for it regularly now.
Ingredients
- One pound chicken tenderloins: the tender texture cooks quickly and stays juicy
- Garlic powder: adds savory depth and enhances natural chicken flavor
- Onion powder: subtly sweet and builds complexity in the seasoning
- Kosher salt: essential for bringing out the natural taste of the chicken
- Black pepper: provides mild heat and sharpness
- Mayonnaise: creates a rich base that helps the coating stick evenly
- Dijon mustard: brings tang and a slight bite to the honey mustard sauce
- Honey: balances mustard’s mustard’s tanginess with sweet smoothness
- One and a half cups crushed kettle cooked plain potato chips: offer a sturdy crunchy coating, and selecting thick kettle chips ensures crispiness after air frying
- Fresh chopped parsley (optional): adds a burst of freshness and color when garnished
Instructions
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- For this recipe, instead of traditional aromatics, the chicken is seasoned simply. Toss the chicken tenderloins with garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, and black pepper in a medium-sized bowl until they are evenly coated. This step builds the base for all the flavor later on. Set aside the seasoned chicken.
- Make the Honey Mustard Sauce:
- In another medium bowl whisk together mayonnaise, dijon mustard, and honey until the sauce is smooth and emulsified. This creamy honey mustard will both flavor and help bind the coating.
- Coat the Chicken:
- Pour about one-third of a cup of the honey mustard sauce onto the seasoned chicken tenders and toss gently to coat every piece. Let them sit for a minute so the sauce clings well.
- Prepare the Crunchy Coating:
- Place the crushed kettle-cooked potato chips in a shallow bowl. For the crispiest results, use plain chips with a firm and coarse texture.
- Bread the Tenders:
- One at a time, press the honey mustard-coated chicken tenders into the crushed chips, making sure each tender is coated evenly and well pressed so the coating sticks nicely.
- Arrange for Air Frying:
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Place the coated tenders inside the basket without letting them touch; you might need to work in batches depending on your basket size. Spray the tops of the chicken tenders lightly with cooking spray for an even crisp.
- Air Fry to Perfection:
- Set the air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Cook the tenders for about eight to ten minutes, flipping halfway through if your air fryer requires it, until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit and the coating is golden and crispy.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Optionally sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness. Serve the tenders hot with the remaining honey mustard sauce as a dipping option.
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The combination of honey mustard and crunchy potato chip coating remains my favorite part of this dish. I still remember watching my kids’ eyes light up as they bit into these crispy tenders for the very first time. It felt like a restaurant-style treat made right at home with so little effort.
Storage Tips
Store leftover cooked tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For best results, reheat in the air fryer at a lower temperature around 350 degrees Fahrenheit for a few minutes to regain crispiness without drying out the chicken. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the coating crunchy.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap plain kettle chips for flavored ones like barbecue or sour cream and onion to add new taste profiles. Crushed pork rinds are a great low-carb alternative and retain crunch just as well. Use honey mustard dressing from the store if you need a shortcut but whisking fresh ingredients delivers a brighter flavor.
Serving Suggestions
These chicken tenders pair brilliantly with a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or even crispy baked fries. The honey mustard dipping sauce also works as a flavorful salad dressing or sandwich spread if you want to extend its use.
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These crispy air fryer chicken tenders are a quick, family-friendly weeknight win that deliver big flavor with minimal fuss. Serve with extra honey mustard for dipping.
Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes
- → What type of potatoes chips work best for coating?
Kettle-cooked plain potato chips provide the ideal crunchy texture, but you can experiment with flavored chips or even crushed pork rinds for variation.
- → How do I ensure the coating sticks well?
After tossing the chicken in honey mustard sauce, press each tender firmly into the crushed chips so the coating adheres evenly before air frying.
- → What temperature should the air fryer be set to?
Set the air fryer to 400°F for optimal cooking, allowing the chicken to become crispy while reaching a safe internal temperature.
- → Can I prepare the honey mustard sauce ahead of time?
Yes, the honey mustard can be whisked together in advance and stored in the refrigerator for easy use before coating the chicken.
- → Is it necessary to spray the air fryer basket?
Spraying the air fryer basket and the coated tenders with nonstick cooking spray helps prevent sticking and promotes an even, crispy finish.