Make Cracker Barrel-style chicken tenderloins at home with your air fryer! This easy and delicious recipe delivers crispy, juicy chicken every time.

Introduction

Cracker Barrel’s chicken tenderloins are a beloved menu item known for their crispy exterior and juicy, flavorful interior. Recreating this delicious dish at home can seem daunting, but with an air fryer, you can achieve the perfect balance of crunch and tenderness with ease. Air frying not only makes the cooking process quicker and simpler but also healthier, as it requires less oil than traditional frying methods.

These Air Fryer Cracker Barrel Chicken Tenderloins are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a fun weekend meal, or even as a tasty appetizer for gatherings. The key to this recipe is the marinade, which infuses the chicken with a delicious blend of flavors, and the air fryer, which ensures a perfect crispy finish. Let’s dive into the recipe and discover how to make these mouthwatering chicken tenderloins at home.

Ingredients

• 1 pound chicken tenderloins
• 1/2 cup Italian dressing
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Cooking spray

Directions

1. In a large bowl, combine the Italian dressing, honey, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to create the marinade.
2. Add the chicken tenderloins to the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for more flavor.
3. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
4. Remove the chicken from the marinade and let any excess drip off.
5. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place the chicken tenderloins in a single layer in the basket.
6. Air fry the chicken for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
7. Serve the chicken tenderloins hot with your favorite dipping sauce or sides.

How to Prepare

Start by preparing the marinade. In a large bowl, combine the Italian dressing, honey, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until well blended. Add the chicken tenderloins to the bowl, ensuring each piece is fully coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the chicken. For the best results, marinate for up to 4 hours.

When you’re ready to cook, preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Remove the chicken tenderloins from the marinade, letting any excess marinade drip off. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Arrange the chicken tenderloins in a single layer in the basket, making sure they don’t overlap.

Air fry the chicken for 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time. This ensures they cook evenly and develop a nice golden brown crust. Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C). Once cooked, remove the tenderloins from the air fryer and serve them hot. These chicken tenderloins pair well with a variety of dipping sauces and sides, making them a versatile addition to any meal.

Preparation Time

• Preparation: 10 minutes
• Marinating: 30 minutes to 4 hours
• Cooking: 10-12 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes to 4 hours 22 minutes

Servings

This recipe serves 4 people, making it ideal for a family meal or a small gathering.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenderloins?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts. Cut them into strips to mimic the size and shape of tenderloins for even cooking.

2. How do I know when the chicken is done?

The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to check.

3. Can I freeze the marinated chicken?

Yes, you can freeze the marinated chicken for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before air frying.

4. What dipping sauces pair well with this dish?

Ranch dressing, honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or a spicy mayo are all great options.

5. Can I use a different marinade?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite marinades to change up the flavor.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Cracker Barrel Chicken Tenderloins are a fantastic way to enjoy restaurant-quality chicken at home. With a flavorful marinade and the convenience of an air fryer, you can easily prepare this dish for any occasion. The crispy, juicy chicken tenderloins are sure to become a family favorite. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the delicious taste of Cracker Barrel chicken tenderloins right in your own kitchen. Happy cooking!