There’s nothing quite like biting into crispy, golden chicken tenders coated in a sweet and savory glaze. These Honey Sesame Chicken Tenders are one of my favorite easy meals when I want something delicious, comforting, and a little bit special — all without frying or a lot of fuss. The combination of sticky honey, rich soy sauce, and toasted sesame seeds gives these tenders irresistible flavor that makes them perfect for weeknight dinners, party platters, or game day snacks.
I love how the air fryer works its magic to give the chicken that crispy edge while keeping it juicy and tender on the inside. Plus, the sesame seeds add a nutty crunch that takes each bite to the next level. Let me walk you through how I make this quick, mouthwatering recipe that’s a hit every time.
Why You’ll Love These Honey Sesame Chicken Tenders
- Crispy, sweet, and savory all in one bite
- Air fryer friendly — no messy frying required
- Quick to prepare with simple pantry staples
- Perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or party snacks
- Pairs well with rice, noodles, or fresh salads
Ingredients You’ll Need
(Serves 4 | Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 12 minutes | Total Time: 27 minutes)
- 1 pound chicken tenders
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon ginger powder
- 1/4 cup sesame seeds
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Cooking spray
How to Make Honey Sesame Chicken Tenders
1. Prepare the Marinade
In a medium bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic powder, ginger powder, salt, and pepper. The aroma from this mix will already have your mouth watering!
2. Marinate the Chicken
Add the chicken tenders to the marinade and toss to coat. Let them soak for at least 15 minutes, or up to an hour if you have the time. This gives the chicken a rich, flavorful base before cooking.
3. Preheat the Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to 380°F (190°C) and let it preheat for about 5 minutes while the chicken marinates.
4. Coat the Chicken with Sesame Seeds
Remove the chicken tenders from the marinade, allowing the excess to drip off. Sprinkle sesame seeds on both sides of each tender, pressing them lightly so they stick.
5. Arrange in the Air Fryer
Place the coated chicken tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding so they cook evenly. Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray to help them crisp up.
6. Cook Until Crispy
Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the tenders are golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) for perfectly juicy chicken.
7. Serve and Enjoy
Remove from the air fryer and, if you like, drizzle with any leftover marinade that you’ve heated to a simmer on the stovetop for safety. Serve immediately and enjoy the sticky, crispy goodness!
Tips for the Best Honey Sesame Chicken Tenders
- Don’t skip the sesame oil — it adds that signature nutty flavor.
- Pat the chicken dry before marinating for better flavor absorption.
- Flip the tenders halfway to get even crispiness on both sides.
- Toast the sesame seeds lightly before using if you want an extra depth of flavor.
- Serve immediately for the best crispy texture.
What to Serve With Honey Sesame Chicken Tenders
- Steamed jasmine or basmati rice to soak up all the sauce
- Garlic noodles for a more indulgent pairing
- Asian slaw with a tangy dressing for freshness
- Roasted vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers
- A simple cucumber salad for a cool, refreshing contrast
Fun Variations to Try
- Add red pepper flakes to the marinade for a spicy kick
- Swap out chicken tenders for boneless chicken thighs for extra juiciness
- Use panko breadcrumbs along with sesame seeds for an even crispier texture
- Top with chopped green onions and a squeeze of lime for extra brightness
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this recipe with chicken breasts?
A: Absolutely! Just slice the chicken breasts into strips and follow the same instructions.
Q: Can I cook these in the oven?
A: Yes! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through until cooked and crispy.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer for the best texture.
Q: Can I freeze these chicken tenders?
A: You can freeze them after cooking. Just reheat in the air fryer or oven until hot and crispy.
Crispy, Sticky, and Packed with Flavor
These Honey Sesame Chicken Tenders are everything you could want in a quick, flavorful dinner or snack. They’re sweet, savory, crunchy, and perfectly satisfying — and they couldn’t be easier to make. Whether you’re feeding family or making a fun appetizer for friends, this recipe is always a winner.
If you make them, let me know how they turned out! Share your favorite sides or sauces, and enjoy every crispy, saucy bite!
Honey Sesame Chicken Tenders: Crispy Delight in Every Bite
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken tenders
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, olive oil, rice vinegar, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Place the chicken tenders in a large zip-top bag and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag and shake to coat. Let marinate for at least 15 minutes.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the marinated chicken tenders in a single layer.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and golden.
- Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over the chicken tenders before serving.
- Garnish with chopped green onions and enjoy!
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