Air-Fried Chicken Tenderloins: Quick, Easy, And Delicious!

Chicken tenderloins are a versatile, quick, and easy meal to cook in an air fryer. They can be cooked from fresh or frozen, breaded or unbreaded, and are ready in under 20 minutes. The cooking time will depend on the size and thickness of the tenderloins, but they typically take 7-12 minutes to cook at temperatures between 360-400°F (180-200°C). The key to juicy tenderloins is ensuring they are cooked thoroughly without overcooking, and serving them with a variety of dips and sides.

Cooking Chicken Tenderloins in an Air Fryer

Choosing the right chicken tenderloins

First, look for chicken tenderloins that are of similar size. This is important because you want the chicken to cook evenly and completely. By choosing tenderloins of uniform size, you can ensure that they all reach the desired internal temperature at the same time, preventing overcooking or undercooking.

Next, consider the source of your chicken tenderloins. While chicken tenderloins are readily available at most supermarkets, there are different types to choose from. Some people prefer air-chilled chicken tenderloins, which tend to be more expensive but are not pre-packed with water. The cheaper varieties may be injected with water, increasing their weight and, therefore, their price. Additionally, check the ingredient list to ensure they are not pre-brined, as this can affect the overall taste and texture of your cooked chicken.

When selecting chicken tenderloins, it is also important to consider their intended use. If you plan to bread and air-fry the chicken, look for tenderloins that are thin and evenly sized, as this will ensure a consistent coating and even cooking. On the other hand, if you prefer a simpler approach without breading, thicker tenderloins can be a good option, as they tend to be juicier and more flavourful.

Lastly, pay attention to the colour and texture of the chicken tenderloins. Look for tenderloins that have a fresh, pinkish hue, avoiding any with discolouration or an overly pale appearance. The texture should be firm to the touch, indicating freshness. Checking the "best before" date on the packaging can also help ensure that you are choosing the freshest chicken tenderloins available.

By following these tips, you can select the right chicken tenderloins for your air fryer, setting yourself up for a delicious and successful cooking experience.

Pre-cooking preparation

Preparing chicken tenderloins for air frying is a quick and easy process. Firstly, decide on your seasonings and spices. A simple combination of salt and pepper will work, but you can also add spices like garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, dried oregano, and chilli powder for extra flavour. If you want a slightly sweeter taste, add a small amount of brown sugar to the mix. You can also marinate the chicken in a mix of Greek yoghurt and tandoori spice, or egg and flour to help the breading stick.

Next, prepare the chicken tenderloins. If they are frozen, allow them to defrost in the fridge overnight. It's important that the tenderloins are a similar size so that they cook evenly. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels, then place them in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle olive oil (or another heart-healthy oil like avocado or canola) over the chicken and toss to ensure they are completely coated.

Now it's time to add your chosen seasonings. Mix the spices together in a small bowl, then sprinkle them evenly over the chicken tenderloins. Toss the chicken until it is thoroughly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the chicken to an airtight container, then place it in the refrigerator to marinate for at least 15 minutes, or overnight if possible.

Finally, prepare the air fryer. Lightly grease the air fryer basket with oil or cooking spray to prevent the chicken from sticking. Preheat the air fryer to 390-400°F (some sources suggest 190°C/375°F).

Cooking temperature and time

The cooking temperature and time for chicken tenderloins in an air fryer depend on several factors, including the model and power of the air fryer, the thickness of the chicken, and personal preference for crispiness. It's important to note that cooking times may vary, so it's always good to keep an eye on the chicken to prevent overcooking.

Firstly, it is recommended to preheat the air fryer. The ideal temperature for preheating is around 360–400°F (190–200°C). Some sources recommend preheating to 390°F.

Once the air fryer is preheated, the chicken tenderloins can be added. It is important to ensure they are in a single layer and not overcrowded. Cooking time varies from 7 to 12 minutes, depending on the source and the desired level of crispiness. Most sources recommend flipping the tenderloins halfway through cooking.

For thicker cuts of chicken, it is advisable to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, rather than increasing the cooking time. The chicken is cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

Serving suggestions

There are many ways to serve chicken tenderloins cooked in an air fryer. You can serve them with a dip or a low-carb dipping sauce, such as buffalo sauce. You can also serve them with sides like french fries, tater tots, sweet potato fries, or onion rings. Or, if you're looking for a low-carb option, you can pair them with asparagus, carrots, or frozen green beans along with a salad.

If you're serving a crowd, you can pair the chicken tenderloins with some dipping sauces, like BBQ sauce and ranch. You can also add them to tacos with fresh salsa, avocado, and a squeeze of lime. For a refreshing side, make a salad with your favourite dressing.

If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 5 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months. To reheat, you can use an air fryer, a preheated oven, a toaster oven, a hot skillet, or a microwave.

Storing and reheating

Storing your chicken tenderloins in an airtight container in the refrigerator will keep them fresh for up to four days. If you wish to keep them longer, you can freeze them for up to three months. To freeze, place the chicken in an airtight container or freezer bag, ensuring they are fully sealed before placing them in the freezer.

When you are ready to enjoy your tenderloins again, you can reheat them in several ways. The air fryer is a great option, as it will help retain the crispy texture. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F, brush the basket with cooking oil, and heat the tenderloins for 2-5 minutes until warmed through. You can also use a preheated oven, a hot skillet, or a microwave if you're short on time.

If you are reheating frozen chicken tenderloins, it is best to follow similar cooking instructions to the original recipe. Cook at 400°F for 8 minutes, flipping them halfway through, and then for an additional 4-6 minutes at the same temperature. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

If you are reheating chicken tenderloins that were previously breaded and cooked, adjust the reheating time to 3-5 minutes at 350°F until warmed through and crispy.

Frequently asked questions