Top 27 Chicken Tenderloins Air Fryer Recipes [NOT TO MISS]

The air fryer has revolutionized the way we cook, offering a healthier alternative to traditional frying methods without compromising on taste and texture. Among the myriad of dishes that can be prepared in this versatile appliance, chicken tenderloins stand out as a prime candidate for air frying. In this comprehensive guide, we explore the art of cooking chicken tenderloins in the air fryer, unlocking a world of flavors, textures, and culinary possibilities.

Why Air Fryer For Chicken Tenderloins?

Before delving into the delectable recipes, let’s understand why the air fryer is the perfect companion for cooking chicken tenderloins. The magic lies in the appliance’s ability to circulate hot air rapidly, creating a crispy exterior while maintaining the juiciness of the meat inside. This method of cooking not only produces a healthier result with less oil but also significantly reduces cooking time, making it an ideal solution for busy individuals and families.

Tips For Perfect Chicken Tenderloins In The Air Fryer

Achieving perfection in every bite requires attention to detail. Here are some essential tips to ensure your chicken tenderloins come out of the air fryer with the ideal balance of crispiness and juiciness:

1. Preheat The Air Fryer

Preheating is crucial for even cooking and achieving that coveted crispy exterior. Set the air fryer to the recommended temperature for a few minutes before placing the chicken tenderloins inside.

2. Use An Oil Mist Sprayer

While the air fryer significantly reduces the need for oil, a light coating can enhance the crispiness. Opt for an oil mist sprayer to evenly distribute a thin layer of oil on the chicken tenderloins.

3. Avoid Overcrowding

To ensure proper air circulation, arrange the chicken tenderloins in a single layer without overcrowding the basket. This ensures each piece cooks uniformly.

4. Flip Midway

For an even golden brown finish, flip the chicken tenderloins halfway through the cooking process. This step guarantees both sides receive equal exposure to the hot air, resulting in a uniform texture.

5. Experiment With Seasonings

Chicken tenderloins are a blank canvas waiting to be infused with flavors. Don’t shy away from experimenting with various seasonings, marinades, and rubs to elevate the taste to new heights.

Now that we’ve set the stage for success, let’s explore a tantalizing array of chicken tenderloins air fryer recipes that will delight your taste buds and leave you craving more.

Top 27 Chicken Tenderloins Air Fryer Recipes

1. Classic Crispy Chicken Tenderloins

Ingredients:

• Chicken tenderloins
• Salt and pepper
• Paprika
• Garlic powder
• Olive oil mist

Instructions:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the chicken tenderloins with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
3. Mist with olive oil.
4. Cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway.

2. Parmesan-Crusted Chicken Tenders

Ingredients:

• Chicken tenderloins
• Parmesan cheese
• Bread crumbs
• Italian seasoning
• Egg wash

Instructions:

1. Dip chicken tenderloins in egg wash.
2. Coat with a mixture of Parmesan cheese, bread crumbs, and Italian seasoning.
3. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 15-18 minutes, turning once.

3. Honey Mustard Glazed Tenders

Ingredients:

• Chicken tenderloins
• Honey
• Dijon mustard
• Garlic powder
• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

1. Mix honey, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Coat chicken tenderloins in the mixture.
3. Air fry at 380°F (193°C) for 14-16 minutes.

4. Spicy Cajun Chicken Strips

Ingredients:

• Chicken tenderloins
• Cajun seasoning
• Smoked paprika
• Onion powder
• Olive oil mist

Instructions:

1. Season chicken with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and onion powder.
2. Mist with olive oil.
3. Air fry at 390°F (199°C) for 12-14 minutes.

5. Lemon Herb Infused Tenderloins

Ingredients:

• Chicken tenderloins
• Lemon zest
• Fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme)
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

1. Rub chicken with lemon zest, fresh herbs, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
2. Air fry at 380°F (193°C) for 14-16 minutes.

6. Sesame Ginger Chicken Bites

Ingredients:

• Chicken tenderloins
• Soy sauce
• Sesame oil
• Ginger (minced)
• Sesame seeds

Instructions:

1. Marinate chicken in soy sauce, sesame oil, and minced ginger.
2. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 15-18 minutes, sprinkling sesame seeds before serving.

7. Buffalo Chicken Tenders

Ingredients:

• Chicken tenderloins
• Buffalo sauce
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Ranch dressing (for dipping)

Instructions:

1. Toss chicken in buffalo sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder.
2. Air fry at 390°F (199°C) for 12-15 minutes.
3. Serve with ranch dressing for dipping.

8. Mango Chili Lime Chicken

Ingredients:

• Chicken tenderloins
• Mango puree
• Chili powder
• Lime juice
• Cilantro (chopped)

Instructions:

1. Mix mango puree, chili powder, lime juice, and chopped cilantro.
2. Coat chicken and air fry at 380°F (193°C) for 14-16 minutes.

9. Panko-Crusted Mustard Chicken

Ingredients:

• Chicken tenderloins
• Dijon mustard
• Panko breadcrumbs
• Italian seasoning
• Olive oil mist

Instructions:

1. Coat chicken in Dijon mustard.
2. Mix Panko breadcrumbs with Italian seasoning.
3. Coat chicken with the breadcrumb mixture and mist with olive oil.
4. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 15-18 minutes.

10. Jalapeño Popper Chicken Strips

Ingredients:

• Chicken tenderloins
• Cream cheese
• Jalapeños (diced)
• Bacon bits
• Bread crumbs

Instructions:

1. Spread cream cheese on chicken, sprinkle with diced jalapeños and bacon bits.
2. Coat with bread crumbs and air fry at 380°F (193°C) for 14-16 minutes.

11. Teriyaki Glazed Chicken Skewers

Ingredients:

• Chicken tenderloins
• Teriyaki sauce
• Pineapple chunks
• Bell peppers (sliced)
• Wooden skewers

Instructions:

1. Thread chicken, pineapple, and bell peppers on skewers.
2. Brush with teriyaki sauce and air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 15-18 minutes.

12. Coconut-Crusted Chicken Bites

Ingredients:

• Chicken tenderloins
• Coconut flakes
• Egg wash
• Almond flour
• Curry powder

Instructions:

1. Dip chicken in egg wash, coat with a mixture of coconut flakes, almond flour, and curry powder.
2. Air fry at 380°F (193°C) for 14-16 minutes.

13. Pesto And Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken

Ingredients:

• Chicken tenderloins
• Pesto sauce
• Sun-dried tomatoes (chopped)
• Parmesan cheese
• Olive oil mist

Instructions:

1. Spread pesto on chicken, sprinkle with sun-dried tomatoes and Parmesan cheese.
2. Mist with olive oil and air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 15-18 minutes.

14. Southern-Style Buttermilk Chicken Tenders

Ingredients:

• Chicken tenderloins
• Buttermilk
• Hot sauce
• Flour
• Paprika

Instructions:

1. Marinate chicken in a mixture of buttermilk and hot sauce.
2. Coat with a mixture of flour and paprika.
3. Air fry at 380°F (193°C) for 14-16 minutes.

15. Maple Dijon Glazed Chicken

Ingredients:

• Chicken tenderloins
• Maple syrup
• Dijon mustard
• Garlic powder
• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

1. Mix maple syrup, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Coat chicken and air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 15-18 minutes.

16. Crispy BBQ Chicken Fingers

Ingredients:

• Chicken tenderloins
• BBQ sauce
• Smoked paprika
• Onion powder
• Olive oil mist

Instructions:

1. Toss chicken in BBQ sauce, smoked paprika, and onion powder.
2. Mist with olive oil and air fry at 390°F (199°C) for 12-15 minutes.

17. Greek Yogurt And Herb Marinated Chicken

Ingredients:

• Chicken tenderloins
• Greek yogurt
• Fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme)
• Lemon juice
• Garlic powder

Instructions:

1. Marinate chicken in Greek yogurt, fresh herbs, lemon juice, and garlic powder.
2. Air fry at 380°F (193°C) for 14-16 minutes.

18. Tandoori Chicken Tenders

Ingredients:

• Chicken tenderloins
• Tandoori spice mix
• Yogurt
• Lemon juice
• Cumin powder

Instructions:

1. Coat chicken in a mixture of tandoori spice, yogurt, lemon juice, and cumin powder.
2. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 15-18 minutes.

19. Orange Ginger Glazed Chicken Strips

Ingredients:

• Chicken tenderloins
• Orange juice
• Ginger (minced)
• Soy sauce
• Cornstarch

Instructions:

1. Mix orange juice, minced ginger, soy sauce, and cornstarch.
2. Coat chicken and air fry at 380°F (193°C) for 14-16 minutes.

20. Herb-Crusted Lemon Pepper Chicken

Ingredients:

• Chicken tenderloins
• Lemon pepper seasoning
• Fresh herbs (parsley, dill)
• Olive oil mist

Instructions:

1. Season chicken with lemon pepper seasoning and fresh herbs.
2. Mist with olive oil and air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 15-18 minutes.

21. Asian-Inspired Sesame Chicken

Ingredients:

• Chicken tenderloins
• Soy sauce
• Sesame oil
• Honey
• Sesame seeds

Instructions:

1. Marinate chicken in soy sauce, sesame oil, and honey.
2. Air fry at 380°F (193°C) for 14-16 minutes, sprinkling sesame seeds before serving.

22. Cajun Ranch Chicken Tenders

Ingredients:

• Chicken tenderloins
• Cajun seasoning
• Ranch dressing (for dipping)
• Olive oil mist

Instructions:

1. Season chicken with Cajun seasoning.
2. Mist with olive oil and air fry at 390°F (199°C) for 12-15 minutes.
3. Serve with ranch dressing for dipping.

23. Mango Habanero Glazed Tenders

Ingredients:

• Chicken tenderloins
• Mango habanero sauce
• Lime juice
• Garlic powder

Instructions:

1. Toss chicken in mango habanero sauce, lime juice, and garlic powder.
2. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 15-18 minutes.

24. Lime Cilantro Chicken Skewers

Ingredients:

• Chicken tenderloins
• Lime juice
• Cilantro (chopped)
• Garlic powder
• Wooden skewers

Instructions:

1. Marinate chicken in lime juice, chopped cilantro, and garlic powder.
2. Thread on skewers and air fry at 380°F (193°C) for 14-16 minutes.

25. Soy Ginger Glazed Chicken Bites

Ingredients:

• Chicken tenderloins
• Soy sauce
• Ginger (minced)
• Garlic powder
• Green onions (sliced)

Instructions:

1. Coat chicken in soy sauce, minced ginger, and garlic powder.
2. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 15-18 minutes, garnishing with sliced green onions.

26. Balsamic Rosemary Chicken Tenders

Ingredients:

• Chicken tenderloins
• Balsamic vinegar
• Fresh rosemary (chopped)
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

1. Marinate chicken in balsamic vinegar, fresh rosemary, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
2. Air fry at 380°F (193°C) for 14-16 minutes.

27. Crispy Coconut Lime Chicken

Ingredients:

• Chicken tenderloins
• Coconut milk
• Lime zest
• Coconut flour
• Olive oil mist

Instructions:

1. Dip chicken in coconut milk, coat with a mixture of lime zest and coconut flour.
2. Mist with olive oil and air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 15-18 minutes.

The air fryer opens up a world of possibilities when it comes to preparing succulent and crispy chicken tenderloins. From classic recipes to bold and exotic flavors, these 27 air fryer recipes provide a diverse range of options for every palate. Embrace the convenience, health benefits, and culinary creativity that the air fryer offers, and transform your chicken tenderloins into mouthwatering delights. Whether you’re a seasoned home chef or a cooking novice, these recipes are sure to elevate your culinary skills and bring joy to your dining table. Happy air frying!

Top 10 Global Flavors

In the realm of culinary convenience and healthy eating, the air fryer has emerged as a kitchen superhero. Among the multitude of dishes that can be prepared effortlessly in this versatile appliance, chicken tenderloins stand out as a prime candidate for air frying. Their inherent tenderness and ability to absorb a myriad of flavors make them a canvas for culinary creativity.

1. Mediterranean Marvel

Infuse your chicken tenderloins with the robust flavors of the Mediterranean. A marinade of olive oil, garlic, lemon zest, oregano, and a dash of red pepper flakes will transport your taste buds to the sun-kissed shores of Greece. Air fry until golden brown and serve with a dollop of tzatziki for an authentic touch.

2. Asian Fusion

Take a culinary journey to the Far East by marinating chicken tenderloins in a blend of soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and sesame oil. Air fry until irresistibly crispy, and serve with a side of steamed jasmine rice and stir-fried vegetables for a harmonious Asian fusion feast.

3. Southwestern Spice

Bring the bold and spicy flavors of the American Southwest to your air fryer. Rub your chicken tenderloins with a smoky blend of chili powder, cumin, paprika, and garlic powder. Air fry until the exterior is perfectly crunchy, and pair with a refreshing avocado salsa for a Tex-Mex twist.

4. Italian Infusion

Give your chicken tenderloins an Italian makeover by marinating them in a blend of balsamic vinegar, olive oil, garlic, and Italian herbs. Air fry to perfection and serve over a bed of al dente pasta or alongside a fresh caprese salad for a taste of la dolce vita.

5. Indian Indulgence

Spice up your air fryer repertoire with an Indian-inspired flavor explosion. Coat your tenderloins in a mixture of yogurt, garam masala, turmeric, and cayenne pepper. Air fry until the spices meld into a symphony of taste, and pair with fragrant basmati rice and cooling raita.

6. Caribbean Charisma

Transport your senses to the tropical shores of the Caribbean by marinating chicken tenderloins in a lively blend of pineapple juice, jerk seasoning, and a hint of allspice. Air fry until the exterior boasts a tantalizing char, and serve with coconut rice and black beans for a taste of paradise.

7. French Elegance

Elevate your chicken tenderloins with a touch of French finesse. Marinate them in Dijon mustard, white wine, garlic, and tarragon. Air fry until golden brown, and pair with a simple salad or a side of ratatouille for a sophisticated dining experience.

8. Middle Eastern Magic

Immerse yourself in the exotic flavors of the Middle East by marinating chicken tenderloins in a blend of yogurt, lemon, garlic, and a medley of spices like cumin and coriander. Air fry to achieve a perfect balance of crispiness and tenderness, and serve with warm pita bread and hummus.

9. Japanese Juxtaposition

Give your chicken tenderloins a Japanese twist by coating them in a mixture of soy sauce, mirin, sake, and ginger. Air fry until they reach a delectable umami perfection, and serve with a side of sushi rice and pickled vegetables for a taste of Japan.

10. African Adventure

Embark on a flavor-packed African adventure by marinating chicken tenderloins in a spicy blend of harissa, lemon, and North African spices. Air fry until the exterior is delightfully crispy, and pair with couscous and a refreshing cucumber salad for a taste of North Africa.

My Favourite Air Fryer Recipe

After experimenting with various flavors and techniques, my all-time favorite Chicken Tenderloins Air Fryer recipe is the "Lemon Herb Delight." This recipe combines the bright and zesty flavors of lemon with a medley of fresh herbs for a dish that is both light and flavorful.

Lemon Herb Delight Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 pound chicken tenderloins
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a bowl, combine the lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and thyme leaves.
2. Season the chicken tenderloins with salt and pepper, then add them to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse.
3. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
4. Place the marinated chicken tenderloins in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not overcrowded to ensure even cooking.
5. Air fry for 12-15 minutes, flipping the tenderloins halfway through the cooking time, until they are golden brown and cooked through.
6. Serve the Lemon Herb Delight chicken tenderloins with a side of roasted vegetables or a simple green salad for a refreshing and satisfying meal.

This recipe never fails to impress with its simplicity, yet bold and harmonious flavors. The combination of lemon and herbs brings a burst of freshness to the tender chicken, making it a perfect dish for any occasion.

Tips And Tricks For Successful Air Fryer Cooking

Mastering the art of air frying chicken tenderloins requires a combination of technique and understanding the nuances of your air fryer. Here are some invaluable tips and tricks to ensure your air frying endeavors are met with success:

1. Preheating Precision

Always preheat your air fryer before cooking. This ensures that the chicken tenderloins start cooking immediately upon placement in the basket, promoting even and consistent results.

2. Marination Mastery

Marinating your chicken tenderloins is key to infusing them with flavor. Allow ample time for the marinade to work its magic, preferably 30 minutes to an hour, for the best taste experience.

3. Even Placement

Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. Arrange the chicken tenderloins in a single layer, ensuring there is space between each piece. This prevents uneven cooking and allows the hot air to circulate efficiently.

4. Temperature Control

Monitor the cooking temperature closely. Different air fryer models may vary, so be sure to follow the recommended temperature settings for chicken tenderloins. Adjustments may be necessary based on your specific appliance.

5. Regular Rotation

Flip the chicken tenderloins halfway through the cooking time. This ensures that both sides achieve that desirable golden brown crispiness. A pair of kitchen tongs is a handy tool for this task.

6. Basting Brilliance

Consider basting the chicken tenderloins with extra marinade or a light brush of oil during the cooking process. This enhances the flavor and helps maintain moisture, preventing the tenderloins from drying out.

7. Internal Temperature Check

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken tenderloins. They should reach at least 165°F (74°C) to ensure they are fully cooked and safe to eat.

8. Experimentation Encouraged

Don’t be afraid to get creative with flavors. Experiment with different marinades, rubs, and seasonings to discover your own signature Chicken Tenderloins Air Fryer recipe.

9. Accessorize With Accessories

Explore the use of air fryer accessories such as racks or skewers to elevate your chicken tenderloin game. These accessories can promote even cooking and provide additional versatility to your air fryer.

10. Cleaning Consistency

Maintain your air fryer by cleaning it regularly. Residual oil and food particles can impact the performance and taste of your dishes. Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for proper cleaning guidelines.

Time-Saving Strategies For Busy Cooks

For those with a hectic schedule, the air fryer becomes an invaluable ally in the quest for quick and delicious meals. Here are some time-saving strategies to streamline your Chicken Tenderloins Air Fryer cooking process:

1. Batch Cooking Bliss

Prepare a large batch of marinated chicken tenderloins and freeze them in individual portions. This way, you can simply defrost and air fry for a quick and hassle-free meal whenever needed.

2. Marinate In Advance

Take advantage of downtime by marinating chicken tenderloins in advance. Store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook, allowing for a burst of flavor without the wait.

3. Prep And Freeze

Prep vegetables and side dishes in advance and freeze them in portions. This way, you can assemble a complete meal in minutes, with the air fryer handling the cooking while you focus on other tasks.

4. Dual Cooking Dynamics

Maximize the capabilities of your air fryer by cooking multiple components simultaneously. While the chicken tenderloins crisp up, use the oven or stovetop for side dishes to create a well-rounded meal.

5. Leftover Revival

Transform leftover chicken tenderloins into exciting new dishes. Shred them for salads, sandwiches, or wraps, or incorporate them into stir-fries for a quick and satisfying meal makeover.

6. Strategic Seasoning

Pre-mix your favorite dry seasonings and store them in labeled containers. This eliminates the need for measuring each time and expedites the marinating process when you’re in a time crunch.

7. Air Fryer Cleanup Crew

Line the air fryer basket with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup. This not only saves time on scrubbing but also ensures a quicker transition between meals.

8. Adopt The "Set And Forget" Mentality

Leverage the timer feature on your air fryer to set precise cooking times. This allows you to focus on other tasks while your Chicken Tenderloins Air Fryer recipe unfolds effortlessly.

9. Smart Scheduling

Plan your air frying sessions during downtime, such as while working from home or completing household chores. This way, you can multitask effectively without compromising on the quality of your meals.

10. Family-Friendly Freezing

Involve your family in the process by preparing and freezing kid-friendly marinated chicken tenderloins. Children can easily pop them into the air fryer for a quick and wholesome meal when needed.

Conclusion

In the world of culinary exploration, Chicken Tenderloins Air Fryer recipes offer a delightful intersection of convenience and gourmet satisfaction. From embracing global flavors to mastering the art of air frying, this comprehensive guide has equipped you with the knowledge and inspiration needed to elevate your chicken tenderloin creations. Whether you’re a culinary enthusiast seeking new tastes or a busy cook looking for time-saving strategies, the air fryer proves to be an indispensable tool in creating mouthwatering and healthy dishes. With the right techniques and a dash of creativity, your Chicken Tenderloins Air Fryer recipes are destined to become a culinary triumph, delighting the palates of those lucky enough to savor your creations. Happy air frying!