1. Marinate the Chicken:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and egg.
- Add the chicken tenderloins to the mixture, ensuring they are fully submerged.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight for best results.
2. Prepare the Breading:
- In a shallow dish, combine the flour, panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Mix well to combine.
3. Bread the Chicken:
- Remove the chicken tenderloins from the buttermilk marinade and let any excess drip off.
- Dredge each tenderloin in the breading mixture, pressing gently to ensure an even coating. Shake off any excess.
4. Air Fry the Chicken:
- Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for about 3-5 minutes.
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Arrange the breaded chicken tenderloins in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding to ensure even cooking.
- Air fry at 380°F (193°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and crispy, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Flip the tenderloins halfway through the cooking time for even crispiness.
5. Serve:
- Once the chicken tenderloins are cooked, remove them from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes.
- Serve hot with your choice of dipping sauce and side dishes.
6. Enjoy:
- Enjoy your crispy and flavorful Air Fryer Cracker Barrel Chicken Tenderloins!
Tips for Success:
- Marination: Marinating the chicken in buttermilk helps to tenderize the meat and enhance flavor. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can use milk with a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar.
- Crispiness: For an extra crispy coating, lightly spray the breaded tenderloins with cooking spray before air frying.
- Cooking Time: Cooking times may vary depending on the size of the tenderloins and the model of your air fryer. Always check for doneness with a meat thermometer.
Conclusion: Air Fryer Cracker Barrel Chicken Tenderloins are a delicious and healthier alternative to deep-fried chicken. With a crispy coating and juicy interior, these tenderloins are perfect for a quick meal or as a crowd-pleasing appetizer. Enjoy them with your favorite dipping sauces and sides for a complete and satisfying meal!