Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
- Prepare Marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together the Italian dressing, honey, and fresh lime juice until well combined.
- Marinate Chicken: Add the chicken tenderloins to the bowl and ensure they are fully coated with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight for best results.
Step 2: Preheat the Air Fryer
- Preheat: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3-5 minutes.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken Tenderloins
- Season Chicken: Remove the chicken tenderloins from the marinade and pat them dry with paper towels. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Arrange in Basket: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place the chicken tenderloins in a single layer in the basket. You may need to cook them in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
- Air Fry: Cook the chicken tenderloins at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
Step 4: Serve
- Serve: Serve the air-fried chicken tenderloins hot, with your favorite sides such as mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh salad. Enjoy!
Cooking Tips and Variations
- Marinade Options: Experiment with different marinades such as teriyaki, barbecue, or buffalo sauce for varied flavors.
- Crispy Coating: For an extra crispy coating, dredge the marinated tenderloins in seasoned breadcrumbs before air frying.
- Herb Addition: Add fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or parsley to the marinade for additional flavor.
- Dipping Sauce: Serve with your favorite dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce.
Conclusion
Air Fryer Cracker Barrel Chicken Tenderloins are a delicious and healthier version of the classic dish. This easy-to-follow recipe ensures tender, flavorful chicken with minimal effort. Enjoy making and sharing these delightful tenderloins with your family and friends.
Key Takeaway
Air Fryer Cracker Barrel Chicken Tenderloins offer a tender, flavorful, and satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare and full of delicious flavors. This versatile recipe can be customized with various marinades and seasonings to suit your taste. Enjoy the tender, juicy goodness of these amazing chicken tenderloins!