Name: Air Fryer Garlic Butter Chicken Strips
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ½ pounds chicken tenders; ½ cup unsalted butter; 4 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tablespoon honey; 1 ½ cups panko breadcrumbs; ½ teaspoon smoked paprika; ½ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (optional); Cooking spray

Sometimes the best recipes show up when you’re not even looking. That’s exactly how I found this one. I had thawed some chicken tenders, thinking I’d pan fry them, but I wanted something crispier and lighter. My air fryer sat on the counter, and the garlic butter from my dinner rolls the night before was still calling my name. The combination was too tempting to ignore.

What came out was magic: juicy chicken wrapped in a crispy garlic butter crust, ready in minutes. This is the kind of dish you make once and then crave again the next day. It’s easy, fast, and packed with flavor, especially if you’re into chicken recipes that don’t require a ton of steps or mess.

This article walks you through everything you need to recreate these Air Fryer Garlic Butter Chicken Strips, plus how to serve, customize, and store them. Let’s jump in.

Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Garlic Butter Chicken Strips Recipe

Crispy outside, juicy inside, ready in under 25 minutes
Made with everyday ingredients you likely have on hand
Lighter than deep-fried chicken tenders, no oily mess
Family-friendly and picky-eater approved
Great for busy weeknights, parties, or meal prep

Ingredients for Air Fryer Garlic Butter Chicken Strips

Here’s what you’ll need to make these easy garlic butter chicken tenders:

1 ½ pounds of chicken tenders (or sliced boneless chicken breasts)
½ cup unsalted butter (for rich garlic flavor)
4 garlic cloves, finely minced (or 1 ½ tablespoons pre-minced garlic)
1 tablespoon honey (balances the garlic beautifully)
1 ½ cups panko breadcrumbs (extra crunch)
½ teaspoon smoked paprika (adds warmth)
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
Optional: 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Cooking spray (to help the coating crisp in the air fryer)

Use fresh ingredients for the best result. If you want to impress with looks as well as taste, garnish with parsley and serve with a lemon wedge for brightness.

This garlic-forward combo is simple but delivers big flavor, and because you’re air frying, you skip the excess oil without sacrificing crunch.

Try pairing with this Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice for a full dinner idea.

How to Make Air Fryer Garlic Butter Chicken Strips

Step 1: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (204°C) for 3 to 5 minutes. This helps you get that golden exterior right from the start.

Step 2: In a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter. Stir in the garlic and honey. Let it sit for a minute or two to blend the flavors.

Step 3: In a shallow bowl, combine the panko, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.

Step 4: Dip each chicken strip into the garlic butter mixture, making sure it’s fully coated. Then dredge it in the seasoned breadcrumbs, pressing gently to stick.

Step 5: Place chicken strips in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Don’t overcrowd. Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray. Air fry for 10 to 12 minutes, flipping halfway. They should be golden brown and cooked through (internal temp 165°F).

For an extra touch, brush any leftover garlic butter on the strips right after cooking. Serve hot.

You might also love these Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs as another quick air fryer meal.

Serving Suggestions for Garlic Butter Chicken Tenders

These chicken strips are great by themselves, but here are a few simple ways to build a meal around them:

Serve with a creamy garlic aioli, honey mustard, or ranch dipping sauce
Pair with air fryer sweet potato fries or classic roasted vegetables
Make it a wrap: tuck strips into a soft tortilla with lettuce and drizzle of sauce
Add to a fresh green salad for a crunchy protein upgrade
Serve them alongside creamy mashed potatoes or cheesy pasta

Want a hearty lunch or a crowd-pleasing dinner? This chicken is versatile. Use what you have in the fridge, and these tenders will fit right in.

Need a full meal idea? Check out this One Pan Chicken and Rice Bake for another easy option.

Easy Variations & Customizations for Garlic Butter Chicken Strips

Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or changing things up, here are a few creative ideas:

Spicy Kick: Add ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mix
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free panko or crushed cornflakes
Low-Carb Option: Swap panko for crushed pork-free cheese crisps or almond flour
Different Protein: Try it with turkey cutlets or tofu strips for a twist
Cheesy Coating: Add ¼ cup grated parmesan to the breadcrumb mixture

These tweaks let you personalize the recipe to suit your tastes or dietary needs without losing that garlic butter charm.

Feeling creative? The base recipe pairs nicely with this Slow Cooker Street Corn Chicken for something a bit different.

Storage & Reheating Tips for Garlic Butter Chicken Strips

Made extra? Here’s how to keep them tasty:

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days
Freezer: Flash freeze cooked strips on a baking sheet, then store in freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months
Reheat in Air Fryer: 375°F for 3 to 5 minutes to get the crisp back
Microwave: Works in a pinch, but texture won’t be as crunchy
Tip: Add a splash of chicken broth or brush with melted butter before reheating to keep them moist

These chicken strips reheat well, especially in the air fryer, making them a great meal prep choice.

Storing leftovers? You can also use them in this Crock Pot Mississippi Chicken inspired meal bowl idea.

Pro Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Garlic Butter Chicken Strips

Want to nail it every time? Keep these tips in mind:

Pat chicken dry: Too much moisture prevents browning and crisping
Press breadcrumbs on firmly: Helps coating stay in place and crunch up
Don’t crowd the basket: Air flow is key to crispiness
Use fresh garlic: It’s stronger and more aromatic than jarred versions
Spray lightly with oil: A mist of oil on top helps panko brown evenly

These small details make a big difference in texture and flavor, especially in the air fryer.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Garlic Butter Chicken Strips

Skipping the preheat: Cold air fryer = soggy coating
Not flipping: Uneven cook means one side stays pale
Overcooking: Leads to dry, chewy tenders
Skipping seasoning: The breadcrumb mix needs bold flavor
Wet chicken: Always pat chicken dry before dipping

Following these pointers means fewer frustrations and better results, every time.

Final Thoughts on Air Fryer Garlic Butter Chicken Strips

This recipe proves that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. With minimal prep and no messy frying, these Air Fryer Garlic Butter Chicken Strips bring bold flavor and that crave-worthy crunch.

Whether you’re serving them to kids or feeding a room of hungry friends, they always disappear fast. Try them once and they’ll likely become part of your regular meal rotation.

FAQs

How long should I cook Air Fryer Garlic Butter Chicken Strips?

Most chicken strips cook perfectly in 10 to 12 minutes at 400°F, flipping halfway through. Always check for an internal temp of 165°F.

Can I use frozen chicken tenders in the air fryer?

Yes, but thaw them first for best results. Frozen chicken can work, but the coating won’t stick as well and the garlic butter flavor may not penetrate fully.

What dipping sauces go well with garlic butter chicken strips?

Ranch, garlic aioli, honey mustard, chipotle mayo, and even a drizzle of extra garlic butter all pair beautifully with this recipe.

How do I keep Air Fryer Garlic Butter Chicken Strips juicy?

Use chicken tenders (they cook quickly and stay moist), don’t overcook, and brush with leftover garlic butter right after air frying to lock in moisture.