Name: Air Fryer Chicken Tenderloins
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 23 min
Total time: 33 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 lbs chicken tenderloins fresh or frozen; avocado oil spray for the basket; ⅓ cup olive oil or preferred cooking oil; 3 tablespoon coconut aminos; 2 cloves minced garlic (garlic powder works in a pinch); 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon hot sauce (Franks red hot recommended); 1 tablespoon dijon mustard; ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper (optional); 2 teaspoon cornstarch; 1 teaspoon paprika

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Air Fryer Chicken Tenderloins (No Breading!) offer a delicious way to satisfy your cravings without the heavy guilt. Picture the inviting aroma wafting through your kitchen, hinting at tender, juicy chicken that’s golden brown on the outside, yet moist and full of flavor on the inside. This isn’t just any chicken dish; it’s a revelation that makes you reconsider takeout. Say goodbye to heavy batter and frying oil, because we’re creating a mouthwatering meal right at home.

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When life gets hectic and you find yourself rushed for dinner, the Air Fryer comes to the rescue. Prep time is a mere 10 minutes, and with just 23 minutes in the air fryer, you’ll have a wholesome meal that even picky eaters will adore. Budget-friendly and full of pantry staples, these tenderloins are perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep. So grab your air fryer and get ready for a culinary experience that’s simple, rewarding, and oh-so-tasty.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Air Fryer Chicken Tenderloins
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
Air Fryer Chicken Tenderloins

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s your go-to solution for busy nights.
Irresistible Flavor: A blend of savory spices and tangy marinade creates a taste sensation.
Eye-Catching Appeal: Golden, crispy edges make this dish a feast for the eyes and the palate.
Flexible Serving: Ideal for a quick lunch, dinner, or even a snack!
Diet-Friendly Options: Naturally low-carb and adaptable for different dietary preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

2 lbs chicken tenderloins: Fresh or frozen, these provide a juicy and tender protein.
Avocado oil spray: A great non-stick solution that’s healthy and effective for the air fryer.
⅓ cup olive oil: Rich in flavor and healthy fats, this serves as the marinade base.
3 tablespoons coconut aminos: A soy sauce alternative that adds umami and depth.
2 cloves minced garlic: Fresh garlic elevates the flavor, but garlic powder can work too.
1 teaspoon onion powder: For that savory kick that enhances the chicken’s taste.
1 teaspoon salt: Essential for bringing out all the flavors.
1 tablespoon hot sauce: Frank’s Red Hot works well for a bit of heat, customizable to your liking.
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Adds a tangy, zesty element to the marinade.
½ teaspoon crushed red pepper: Optional, for those who enjoy an extra spicy kick.
2 teaspoons cornstarch: This helps create that crispy texture without the breading.
1 teaspoon paprika: Adds a beautiful color and a touch of smokiness.

How to Make Air Fryer Chicken Tenderloins

Preheat the Air Fryer: Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F. This step is crucial for even cooking and that delightful crispiness. Lightly spray the basket with avocado oil spray to ensure nothing sticks.
Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken tenderloins dry with paper towels—this helps the spices adhere better. In a large bowl, toss the chicken with olive oil, spices, cornstarch, and any extras you’re using. Use your hands to mix well, ensuring every piece is equally coated.
Make the Marinade: Combine ⅓ cup olive oil, 3 tablespoons coconut aminos, minced garlic, onion powder, salt, hot sauce, Dijon mustard, and crushed red pepper in a separate bowl. Whisk until smooth and cohesive.
Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken tenderloins directly to the marinade, mixing until they’re thoroughly coated. For the best flavor infusion, let the chicken sit for at least 15 minutes. If you have time, marinating for a few hours or overnight will elevate the taste even further.
Arrange in Air Fryer: Place the marinated chicken in a single layer in the preheated air fryer basket, ensuring not to overcrowd. If you’re cooking the full 2 pounds, it’s likely you’ll need to do this in batches.
Air Fry the Chicken: Cook for 10 to 13 minutes, flipping the chicken halfway through to achieve a golden-brown finish. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F. Checking the internal temp at the 6-minute mark is a tip to ensure you don’t overcook.
Finish & Serve: Once the chicken is cooked through with edges that are browned and crispy, remove from the air fryer and let rest for a few minutes. Consider sprinkling chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness before serving.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to preserve them for longer, you can freeze the chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. To reheat, set your air fryer to 350°F and cook the chicken for about 5 minutes, or until warmed through. You’ll notice the texture might change slightly, but a quick spray of oil or a few minutes in the air fryer will refresh its deliciousness.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

If you’re short on time, skip directly to the marinating stage after mixing your ingredients for a quick meal.
Make sure your chicken is at room temperature before cooking for even results.
Keep an eye on the cooking time; different air fryer models may vary.
If you prefer extra crispiness, adding a sprinkle of more cornstarch before cooking can really enhance texture.
Experiment with different marinades or spices based on your preferences.

These chicken tenderloins are versatile and can be paired with a variety of sides, making experimentation fun and encouraging your culinary creativity.

Air Fryer Chicken Tenderloins serve as a delightful option for any occasion. With their enticing flavors and ease of preparation, it’s easy to understand why many home cooks love this recipe. They are ideal for dinner but also work great as leftovers in salads or sandwiches.

Recipe FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken tenderloins?

Absolutely! Just extend the cooking time slightly, ensuring you check the internal temperature to reach 165°F for food safety.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

Using a meat thermometer is the best way to check! The internal temperature should reach 165°F for safe consumption. Look for a nice golden-brown color and juices running clear.

Can I modify the spice levels?

Definitely! You can adjust the amount of hot sauce and crushed red pepper based on your heat preferences. For a milder taste, reduce these ingredients or omit them entirely.

What sides go well with Air Fryer Chicken Tenderloins?

These tenderloins pair beautifully with salads, steamed vegetables, or roasted potatoes. You can even toss them into wraps for a delicious and convenient meal.

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Air Fryer Chicken Tenderloins

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

How to Make Air Fryer Chicken Tenderloins

Storing & Reheating

Chef’s Helpful Tips