If you love chicken that comes out juicy on the inside yet perfectly crisp on the outside, then this Air Fryer Chicken Tenderloins Recipe is going to become your new best friend in the kitchen. It takes just minutes to whip up, uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients, and delivers big on flavor with the perfect blend of smoky paprika and fragrant herbs. Whether you’re cooking for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week ahead, these tenderloins are incredibly versatile and delicious, making every bite an absolute treat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is the secret to nailing this recipe every time. Each element plays a special role, from the olive oil that helps everything crisp beautifully, to the garlic and smoked paprika that bring warmth and depth. These are all straightforward ingredients you likely already have, making this recipe as convenient as it is tasty.
- 1 pound chicken tenderloins: Choose fresh, evenly sized tenderloins for even cooking and tender results.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: This adds moisture and helps the seasonings stick, plus promotes that wonderful golden finish.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: A pantry staple that adds savory richness without overpowering the chicken.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Complements the garlic with a sweet, subtle flavor boost.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Infuses the chicken with a smoky hint that brings depth and a slight color pop.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano: Adds a touch of herbaceous brightness that balances the spices.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for enhancing all the flavors and ensuring the chicken is perfectly seasoned.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Brings a gentle, warming kick to round out the seasoning blend.
- Cooking spray: Prevents sticking while keeping the air fryer basket nice and clean.
How to Make Air Fryer Chicken Tenderloins Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Air Fryer
Before diving in, preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3 to 5 minutes. This step sets the perfect stage to achieve that crispy exterior without overcooking the tender inside. A properly preheated air fryer ensures the chicken starts cooking immediately, locking in juices.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
In a large bowl, toss your chicken tenderloins with the olive oil and all the dry seasonings: garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Be sure to coat every piece evenly—this is where that amazing flavor really begins! If you want an extra kick, feel free to add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Step 3: Prepare the Basket
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. This makes cleanup easier and prevents the tenderloins from sticking, ensuring those crispy edges stay intact when you flip them.
Step 4: Arrange and Cook
Arrange the chicken tenderloins in a single layer in the basket. Make sure not to overcrowd the basket; if necessary, cook in batches. Air fry the tenderloins for 8 to 10 minutes, flipping halfway through. They should come out golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This guarantees they are safe to eat but still juicy and tender.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
After cooking, let the tenderloins rest for about 2 minutes. This brief rest lets the juices redistribute throughout the meat, making every bite as juicy as possible. Now, your chicken is ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Air Fryer Chicken Tenderloins Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice can brighten up the smoky tones in the chicken and add a fresh, herbal lift. You could also toss some grated Parmesan for a rich, savory finish.
Side Dishes
These chicken tenderloins pair beautifully with crisp green salads, roasted vegetables, or even creamy mashed potatoes. For a lighter touch, serve them alongside a quick quinoa salad or some steamed broccoli for vibrant color and nutrition.
Creative Ways to Present
Try slicing the tenderloins and serving them atop a wrap with crunchy slaw and your favorite sauce for an easy lunch. Or, dice them into a salad bowl, toss with avocado and cherry tomatoes, and drizzle with a tangy vinaigrette for a colorful, satisfying meal. They also make a fantastic protein addition to grain bowls or loaded nachos.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any tenderloins left over, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They will keep well for up to 3 days and make for an excellent quick meal addition when time is tight.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked chicken tenderloins by placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Be sure to separate layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking. They’ll last up to 3 months frozen, ready to be reheated whenever you need a protein-packed convenience.
Reheating
To reheat, pop the tenderloins back into the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3 to 5 minutes, or until warm and crisp again. This method revives their delicious texture much better than a microwave, which can sometimes dry them out.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken tenderloins for this Air Fryer Chicken Tenderloins Recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw the tenderloins completely and pat them dry before seasoning and cooking to ensure they crisp up nicely in the air fryer.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The surest way is using a meat thermometer—chicken tenderloins are safe to eat at an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). They should also look golden brown outside and be juicy inside.
Can I make this recipe spicy?
Absolutely! Add a 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or your favorite hot seasoning to the spice mix for a delicious kick that complements the smoky paprika beautifully.
What air fryer model works best for this recipe?
Most air fryers will do the job just fine, as long as they can reach 400°F. Be sure not to overcrowd the basket to maintain crispiness and even cooking.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this Air Fryer Chicken Tenderloins Recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities or anyone seeking a wholesome, gluten-free meal.
Final Thoughts
This Air Fryer Chicken Tenderloins Recipe genuinely delivers all the qualities you want: quick, easy, healthy, and absolutely delicious. It’s one of those simple meals that feels special with very little effort. I can’t wait for you to try it and discover how this straightforward recipe can elevate your weeknight dinners or lunch prep. Your air fryer is about to become your new best kitchen gadget for cooking chicken that’s juicy inside and perfectly crisp outside every single time.
Print
Air Fryer Chicken Tenderloins Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Air Fryer Chicken Tenderloins recipe offers a quick, healthy, and flavorful way to prepare chicken tenderloins using simple spices and the efficient air frying method. Perfectly seasoned and cooked to juicy perfection, these tenderloins are ideal for meals like salads, wraps, or as a protein-packed snack.
Ingredients
Chicken Tenderloins
- 1 pound chicken tenderloins
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Additional
- Cooking spray
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3–5 minutes to ensure even cooking.
- Season the chicken tenderloins: In a large bowl, toss the chicken tenderloins with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper until the chicken is fully and evenly coated with the seasoning mixture.
- Prepare the air fryer basket: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking and to help achieve a crispy exterior.
- Arrange and cook: Place the seasoned tenderloins in a single layer inside the air fryer basket. If necessary, cook in batches to avoid overcrowding. Air fry for 8–10 minutes, flipping the tenderloins halfway through the cooking time for even browning.
- Check for doneness and rest: Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption. Once cooked, let the tenderloins rest for 2 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.
Notes
- These tenderloins are perfect for salads, wraps, or dipping in your favorite sauce.
- For a spicy kick, add 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix.
- If using frozen tenderloins, thaw completely and pat dry before seasoning for best results.
