Welcome to the ultimate guide for making delicious Air Fryer Cracker Barrel Chicken Tenderloins! These tender and flavorful chicken tenderloins are inspired by the popular dish from Cracker Barrel, and they’re perfect for a quick and easy meal. Let’s get started!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Air Fryer Cracker Barrel Chicken Tenderloins are incredibly juicy and full of flavor. The air fryer makes them crispy on the outside while keeping them tender on the inside, all without the extra calories from deep frying.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken tenderloins
- 1/2 cup Italian dressing
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Olive oil spray
Equipment
- Air fryer
- Mixing bowls
- Tongs
- Measuring spoons
Step-by-Step Recipe
1. Marinate the Chicken
- Prepare the Marinade:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the Italian dressing, honey, lime juice, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Mix well.
- Marinate the Chicken:
- Add the chicken tenderloins to the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
2. Preheat the Air Fryer
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3 minutes.
3. Cook the Chicken Tenderloins
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Remove the chicken tenderloins from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess marinade, which helps them get crispy.
- Arrange in Air Fryer:
- Place the chicken tenderloins in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they do not touch. You may need to cook them in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
- Spray with Olive Oil:
- Lightly spray the chicken tenderloins with olive oil to help them crisp up.
- Air Fry the Chicken:
- Cook the chicken tenderloins at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes, turning them halfway through the cooking time, until they are golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
4. Serve and Enjoy
- Garnish and Serve:
- Serve the Air Fryer Cracker Barrel Chicken Tenderloins hot, with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh salad.
Tips for Perfect Chicken Tenderloins
- Marinate Well: Marinating the chicken tenderloins enhances their flavor and keeps them juicy.
- Pat Dry: Patting the chicken dry before air frying helps achieve a crispy exterior.
- Even Cooking: Cook the chicken in a single layer and turn halfway through for even cooking.
Variations to Try
- Spicy Chicken Tenderloins: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the marinade for a spicy kick.
- Herb Infused: Add fresh or dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano to the marinade for an herbal twist.
- Glazed Chicken: Brush the chicken tenderloins with additional honey during the last few minutes of cooking for a sweet glaze.
Conclusion
Air Fryer Cracker Barrel Chicken Tenderloins are a delicious and easy meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. With their tender, flavorful meat and crispy exterior, they’re sure to be a hit.
Key Takeaway
The secret to perfect Air Fryer Cracker Barrel Chicken Tenderloins lies in a flavorful marinade and cooking them at the right temperature for the right amount of time. By following this guide, you’ll create delicious and juicy chicken tenderloins every time.
We hope you found this guide helpful and inspiring. Enjoy your Air Fryer Cracker Barrel Chicken Tenderloins!