Oh, let me tell you about my absolute favorite go-to meal: air fryer chicken tenderloins! They’re a game changer for busy weeknights. Seriously, you can whip up this delicious dish in no time, and the best part? It’s so simple! Just a handful of ingredients and a little love is all you need. I love making these tenderloins for my family; they come out juicy, flavorful, and perfectly crispy every single time. Plus, I can prep them while catching up with the kids or scrolling through my favorite recipes. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll become a staple in your quick dinner routine, too!
Ingredients for Airfryer Chicken Tenderloins
Gather these simple ingredients, and you’ll be well on your way to creating some mouthwatering air fryer chicken tenderloins!
- 1 pound chicken tenderloins
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
These measurements are easy to follow and ensure your tenderloins come out perfectly seasoned and delicious every time. Feel free to adjust the spices to fit your taste—it’s all about making it your own!
How to Prepare Airfryer Chicken Tenderloins
Now, let’s dive into the fun part: preparing those scrumptious air fryer chicken tenderloins! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.
Preheat Your Air Fryer
First things first, you want to preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This step is key to achieving that crispy, golden exterior that we all love! So, go ahead and let it warm up while you get everything else ready.
Prepare the Seasoning Mixture
In a medium bowl, mix together the olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Give it a good stir until everything is well combined. The aroma will be absolutely inviting—trust me!
Coat the Chicken Tenderloins
Now, it’s time to add those chicken tenderloins to the bowl. Toss them in the seasoning mixture until they’re evenly coated. You want each piece to be glistening with that flavorful blend—this is what gives them that mouthwatering taste!
Cooking the Tenderloins
Place the coated tenderloins in the air fryer basket in a single layer. This helps them cook evenly and get that nice crispness. Cook them for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through. And don’t forget to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) to ensure they’re safe to eat!
Resting Before Serving
Once they’re done, remove the tenderloins from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes. This little pause allows the juices to redistribute, making each bite even juicier. You’ll be amazed at how delicious they are!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s chat about the nutritional info for these tasty air fryer chicken tenderloins! This dish is not only delicious but also packs a punch when it comes to nutrition. Here’s what you can expect per serving (about 4 ounces):
- Calories: 200
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 0g
- Protein: 30g
Keep in mind that these numbers are estimates based on the ingredients listed. It’s a great source of protein while being low in carbs, making it a fantastic choice for a healthy meal. Enjoy every bite knowing it’s good for you, too!
Tips for Success with Airfryer Chicken Tenderloins
Alright, let’s make sure your air fryer chicken tenderloins turn out absolutely perfect! First off, don’t be shy with the seasoning—feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices to the mix. A little Italian seasoning or even some cayenne for heat can really elevate the flavor!
Also, keep in mind that air fryers can vary in cooking times. If you’re using a different model, start checking the tenderloins a couple of minutes earlier to avoid overcooking. And remember, letting them rest before serving is crucial; it makes a world of difference in juiciness. Trust me, follow these tips, and you’ll impress everyone at the dinner table!
FAQs About Airfryer Chicken Tenderloins
Got questions about making the best air fryer chicken tenderloins? I’ve got you covered! Here are some of the most common queries I hear, along with my tried-and-true answers.
How long do I cook chicken tenderloins in the air fryer?
You’ll want to cook them for about 10-12 minutes at 400°F (200°C). Just remember to flip them halfway through for that even crispiness!
Can I use different seasonings?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative. I love adding Italian seasoning or a sprinkle of lemon pepper for a zesty twist. You can totally customize the flavors to suit your taste.
What dipping sauces pair well with these tenderloins?
Oh, there are so many options! I personally enjoy them with a side of honey mustard or barbecue sauce. Ranch dressing is also a classic favorite—perfect for dipping!
Can I reheat leftover chicken tenderloins?
Yes! Just pop them back in the air fryer for a few minutes to get them crispy again. You can also use the microwave, but they won’t have that same crunch.
Are these chicken tenderloins gluten-free?
You bet! As long as you stick to the ingredients listed, this recipe is gluten-free and a great option for anyone following that diet.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Let me tell you, this air fryer chicken tenderloins recipe is a total winner for so many reasons! Here are just a few of the amazing benefits that will have you coming back for more:
- Quick Preparation: You can have a delicious meal on the table in just 22 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights!
- Easy Clean-Up: With minimal dishes and the air fryer doing most of the work, clean-up is a breeze!
- Flavorful Meal: The seasoning blend creates a mouthwatering taste that will impress your family and friends.
- Healthy Option: Packed with protein and low in carbs, this dish is a nutritious choice that fits into any diet.
- Kid-Friendly: Kids love the crispy texture and juicy flavor, making it a hit at family dinner time.
- Versatile: Pair it with your favorite sides or dipping sauces for endless meal possibilities.
Trust me, once you try these tenderloins, you’ll understand why they’re a staple in my kitchen!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Alright, let’s talk about how to properly store those delicious air fryer chicken tenderloins! If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare because they’re so tasty!), just let them cool down a bit and then pop them into an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to seal them well so they don’t dry out!
When it comes to reheating, the air fryer is your best friend. Simply place the tenderloins back in the air fryer basket at 360°F (182°C) for about 4-5 minutes. This will bring back that crispy goodness! If you’re in a hurry, you can use the microwave, but they might lose some of that delightful crunch. Just heat them for a minute or so, but keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
With these tips, you can enjoy those flavorful tenderloins even after they’ve cooled down. Happy eating!
Print
Airfryer Chicken Tenderloins: 5 Secrets to Juicy Perfection
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A simple and quick recipe for air fryer chicken tenderloins.
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken tenderloins
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Add chicken tenderloins to the bowl and coat them evenly.
- Place the tenderloins in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safety.
- Remove from air fryer and let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- Adjust seasonings to your taste.
- Serve with your favorite dipping sauce.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 ounces
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: air fryer chicken tenderloins, chicken recipe, quick dinner