Save Pin
These air fried chicken tenders deliver everything you crave in a snack or easy meal—super juicy chicken with a tangy hot lemon pepper ranch glaze that hits sweet heat and zest all at once. The air fryer guarantees perfect tenderness that almost falls apart, and the homemade sauce is so good I find myself making extra just to drizzle on basically everything else. This is the appetizer everyone grabs first on game day, but it is also hearty enough for a quick weeknight dinner with veggies.
I first tried this recipe for a Sunday football party and it was so popular my friends texted for the sauce recipe the very next weekend. Now it has earned a permanent spot in my meal rotation.
Ingredients
- Chicken tenders: choose ones that feel plump and firm for the absolute juiciest result
- Honey: add for a mellow sweetness that balances the zesty flavors
- Butter: use real unsalted butter for a rich base to the glaze
- Lemon pepper seasoning: this delivers the bold citrus and pepper punch you want
- Powdered ranch seasoning: go for a good quality blend for complexity and tang
- Lemon zest and juice: the zest is key here for fresh flavor while the juice adds acidity
- Hot sauce: adjust the heat to your taste try a vinegar-based one for extra brightness
- Signature chicken seasonings (paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, cayenne): these create a deep background warmth and savory base
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Chicken:
- Trim away any white tendon from the tenders using a small sharp knife or your fingers. This makes the chicken more tender and pleasant to eat. Place the tenders in a bowl and drizzle with olive oil. Sprinkle on your seasoning blend and toss with clean hands until each piece is well coated.
- Make the Glaze:
- Melt butter and honey together slowly in a small saucepan so you do not scorch anything. When melted stir in lemon pepper seasoning powdered ranch seasoning lemon zest lemon juice hot sauce and any extra spices. Whisk until completely smooth and glossy. Pour half into a separate clean bowl to use later for basting cooked chicken.
- Baste and Air Fry:
- Brush a generous layer of the sauce on your seasoned raw tenders using a clean basting brush. Place them in the preheated air fryer basket in a single layer. Set to 400 degrees and air fry for about 13 to 15 minutes flipping halfway through. Each time you flip brush more glaze on the chicken so layers build up.
- Finish with Broil and Final Glaze:
- Turn the heat up to broil for the last two minutes to get some caramelized bits and golden edges. When chicken is cooked through and juicy (internal temperature reaches 165 degrees) brush on the reserved clean glaze one final time. Let rest for a minute before serving for maximum juiciness.
Save Pin
This is the first thing my sister asks me to cook when she comes over and her kids absolutely inhale these tenders no leftovers guaranteed
Storage Tips
Once cooled pop leftovers into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to four days The sauce keeps the chicken moist so you can enjoy these tenders cold or quickly reheat them in the air fryer for a few minutes I often use extras sliced on top of salads the next day
Ingredient Substitutions
If you do not have fresh chicken tenders you can swap in boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into strips For a dairy free version use your favorite vegan butter in the glaze For a mild option swap the hot sauce for extra lemon juice or a pinch of sweet paprika
Serving Suggestions
Pile these tenders on a platter with celery and carrot sticks for dunking in extra ranch or blue cheese They are just as good tucked into a wrap with crunchy lettuce or served over rice or salad greens The sauce is fantastic spooned over roasted potatoes too
Save Pin
Cultural and Game Day History
These chicken tenders are a nod to the Southern love for bold lemon pepper wings with a ranch twist I created them after a trip to Atlanta where lemon pepper is a classic flavor for chicken on football weekends The ranch brings a bit of Midwest comfort food charm
Commonly Asked Questions
- → How do you keep chicken tenders juicy in the air fryer?
Pat the chicken dry and coat generously with olive oil and marinade before air frying. Cooking at high heat quickly seals in juices, ensuring each piece remains tender and moist.
- → Can I bake or grill instead of air frying?
Yes! Bake at 400°F for about 15-18 minutes or grill over medium-high heat, basting with sauce and turning midway for even color and flavor.
- → Why remove the tendon from chicken tenders?
Removing the thick tendon yields a smoother texture and less chewiness, resulting in a better eating experience with each bite.
- → What makes the glaze special?
The glaze combines honey, butter, lemon, ranch seasoning, and hot sauce for a harmonious blend of sweet, tangy, herby, and spicy flavors.
- → Can this dish be made ahead?
Yes, cooked tenders can be stored in the fridge, making them convenient for meal prepping salads or quick, flavorful snacks.
- → What dips pair well with these tenders?
Classic options like ranch or blue cheese dressing complement the zesty sauce, alongside crisp veggies for a complete platter.