Air Fryer Chicken Tenderloins
There’s something utterly delightful about a good chicken tender. I mean, who can resist the juicy, tender goodness of a well-cooked piece of chicken? They can be the star of a fancy dinner or the star of your casual movie night; they’re just that versatile. I remember the first time I made chicken tenderloins in my air fryer. I was a little skeptical at first because I had always utilized the oven or stovetop. But after that first bite, I knew I had stumbled upon something special. The tenderloins came out golden brown, perfectly juicy, and with a flavor that was out of this world!
This recipe is not just about the deliciousness; it’s also about how quick and easy it is. You really can have a homemade meal on the table in no time. So, let’s get to it and whip up these air fryer chicken tenderloins that you’ll want to make again and again!
What’s in Air Fryer Chicken Tenderloins?
Chicken Tenderloins: The star of the dish! These are the most tender and juicy part of the chicken. When cooked right, they practically melt in your mouth.
Olive Oil: This liquid gold is what helps the seasoning stick to the chicken and gives it a lovely crisp when it cooks. I usually use extra virgin olive oil for its fantastic flavor.
Garlic Powder: Because what’s chicken without a little garlic? It adds a depth of flavor that is simply irresistible.
Onion Powder: Along with garlic, onion powder adds a tasty backdrop, complementing the other spices beautifully.
Smoked Paprika: This is the secret weapon here! It gives the chicken a smoky flavor that makes you want to come back for more.
Paprika: Regular paprika adds color and a mild sweetness. Together with smoked paprika, it creates a rich flavor profile.
Dried Oregano: A pinch of dried herbs goes a long way! Oregano brings in a Mediterranean flair that pairs well with chicken.
Salt: Essential for enhancing all the flavors in your dish.
Black Pepper: Just a little kick! It brings out the best in the chicken without overpowering it.
Fresh Parsley (for garnish): A sprinkle of fresh herbs not only beautifies the dish but adds a touch of freshness.
Lemon Wedges (for serving): The perfect finishing touch! A squeeze of lemon brightens the flavors and adds zing.
Is Air Fryer Chicken Tenderloins Good for You?
Absolutely! These air fryer chicken tenderloins are a healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken, as they require far less oil while still delivering crispy, golden goodness.
Chicken Tenderloins: Being high in protein and low in fat, chicken tenderloins are a lean source of nourishment, perfect for a healthy diet.
Olive Oil: Not only does it help with flavor, but olive oil is packed with healthy fats that can be heart-healthy when used in moderation.
Seasonings: The herbs and spices lend wonderful flavors without needing any heavy breading or fatty sauces.
Just a heads up—if you’re watching your sodium intake, you might want to adjust the amount of salt or season it with a salt-free alternative.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound chicken tenderloins
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
– Lemon wedges (for serving)
This recipe serves about 4 people, perfect for a family dinner!
How to Make Air Fryer Chicken Tenderloins?
1. Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This step is crucial for a perfect sear!
2. In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to create a marinade that’ll make your chicken sing.
3. Add the chicken tenderloins to the bowl and toss them until they are evenly coated with the marinade. Get in there and have some fun—don’t be shy!
4. Arrange the marinated chicken tenderloins in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Make sure they are not overcrowded to ensure even cooking. Trust me; they deserve their space!
5. Cook the tenderloins in the air fryer for 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through. You want them to be golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Once cooked, carefully remove the tenderloins from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps them retain their juices.
7. Serve them hot, garnished with fresh parsley and lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the top. Your taste buds are already doing a happy dance!
Just a Little Extra Love
If you want to spice things up, try adding some cayenne pepper for an extra kick! You could also serve these tenderloins on a bed of fresh greens for a nutritious salad or chop them up to add to wraps or sandwiches for lunch the next day.
I hope you give this recipe a try, and let me know how it turns out! Cooking is all about experimenting and enjoying the process. I can’t wait to hear your thoughts—happy cooking!
