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This Air Fryer Cracker Barrel Chicken Tenderloins recipe delivers tender, juicy chicken with bright and savory flavors. Using the air fryer locks in moisture while creating a lightly crisp exterior, making it an easy favorite that feels special without much fuss.
I discovered this recipe on a busy weeknight, and it immediately became a go-to. Even my picky eaters ask for it regularly, and I love how little clean-up is involved.
Ingredients
- Italian dressing: forms the simple flavorful marinade, choose a brand with herbs for extra zest
- Garlic clove minced: adds savory depth, fresh is best for a punch
- Honey: brings just the right touch of sweetness to balance the lime
- Freshly squeezed lime juice: offers brightness and tenderizing properties, use ripe limes for juiciest flavor
- Kosher salt: enhances all the flavors, kosher salt has a clean taste that blends well
- Ground black pepper: adds mild heat, freshly cracked pepper is ideal
- Chicken tenderloins: the star ingredient, look for tenderloins that are uniform in size for even cooking
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Spoon the Marinade together:
- In a large bowl, whisk the Italian dressing, minced garlic, honey, fresh lime juice, kosher salt, and ground black pepper until fully combined. This creates a balanced marinade that tenderizes and flavors the chicken.
- Submerge the Chicken:
- Add the chicken tenderloins to the bowl and carefully toss them so they are evenly coated in the marinade. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and place it in the fridge to marinate for up to 1 hour to allow the flavors to soak in.
- Prepare the Air Fryer:
- Preheat your air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit while lightly spraying the basket with olive oil spray to prevent sticking. Do not overcrowd the basket; arrange the chicken tenderloins in a single layer with space between pieces. If needed, cook in batches.
- Cook the Chicken:
- Air fry the tenderloins for 10 minutes total, flipping halfway through for even cooking. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. This method ensures a juicy interior with a slight crisp outside.
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My favorite part of this recipe is how the lime juice brightens the flavors while the honey mellows it out. I recall a family dinner where everyone loved the chicken so much my kids fought over the last tenderloin. It’s simple but packs a lot of satisfaction.
Storage tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer or oven to keep the texture crisp instead of microwaving for best flavor.
Ingredient substitutions
If you don’t have Italian dressing, a mix of olive oil, vinegar, and dried herbs works well. Lime juice can be swapped with lemon juice but the flavor will shift slightly. Use regular chicken breasts cut into strips if tenderloins aren’t available.
Serving suggestions
Serve these chicken tenderloins alongside a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables. They’re also fantastic piled on toasted buns with a creamy slaw for sandwiches.
Recipe FAQs
- → What marinade ingredients enhance the chicken’s flavor?
Italian dressing combines herbs and vinegar, while garlic adds aroma. Honey balances acidity with sweetness, and fresh lime juice gives a bright tang.
- → How long should the chicken marinate before cooking?
Marinate for up to one hour to allow flavors to penetrate without altering the texture negatively.
- → What’s the ideal air fryer temperature and time for cooking?
Preheat to 400°F and cook the tenderloins for about 10 minutes, flipping halfway through for even browning.
- → Can I cook all the chicken at once in the air fryer?
Avoid overcrowding to ensure proper air circulation; cook in batches if needed for crispy results.
- → Why shouldn’t the chicken marinate longer than 2 hours with lime juice?
Lime juice’s acidity can begin to 'cook' the meat chemically, leading to a mushy texture if left too long.