Air Fryer Frozen Chicken Tenderloins: How Long To Cook?

Cooking frozen chicken tenderloins in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to prepare a tasty, low-carb meal. Requiring minimal prep, this method of cooking chicken is perfect for a last-minute or weeknight dinner. There are a few different ways to cook frozen chicken tenderloins in an air fryer, depending on the desired level of crispiness and the thickness of the meat. Some recipes suggest cooking the tenderloins for 7-8 minutes, while others recommend 10-15 minutes. The key to ensuring the chicken is cooked through is to use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Preheat the air fryer

Preheating your air fryer is an important step in the cooking process. It helps to ensure that your chicken tenderloins cook evenly and efficiently, achieving that desired crispy texture on the outside without overcooking the meat. Depending on the model of your air fryer, you can preheat it to a range of temperatures between 350 and 400 degrees Fahrenheit. For example, you can preheat your air fryer to 390 degrees Fahrenheit, as instructed by Munchy Goddess. However, Everyday Family Cooking recommends preheating to 400 degrees Fahrenheit, while another source suggests 350 degrees Fahrenheit to prevent the chicken from drying out.

To preheat your air fryer, simply turn it on and set the desired temperature and timer. Most models will have a preheat function, but if yours does not, you can manually set the timer for around 5 minutes to allow the air fryer to heat up. Some sources suggest brushing the air fryer basket with cooking oil or lightly greasing it before preheating to prevent the chicken from sticking.

The preheating process is especially important if you are reheating leftover chicken tenderloins. Reheating in a preheated air fryer at 350 to 360 degrees Fahrenheit for 3 to 5 minutes will ensure that your chicken is warmed thoroughly without becoming dry or overcooked.

By taking the time to preheat your air fryer, you'll be one step closer to enjoying tender and juicy chicken tenderloins that are cooked to perfection!

Cook at 350°F for 12-15 minutes

To cook frozen chicken tenderloins in an air fryer, start by preheating your air fryer to 350°F. Brush the air fryer basket with cooking oil, such as olive oil, to prevent the chicken from sticking. You can also use olive oil to coat the chicken and keep it moist. Then, place the frozen chicken tenderloins in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they don't overlap, and set the timer for 12-15 minutes. Halfway through the cooking process, turn the tenderloins over to ensure even cooking. Depending on the thickness of the chicken, you may need to adjust the cooking time. It is important to note that the USDA recommends cooking chicken to a safe minimum internal temperature of 165°F, which you can measure with a food thermometer.

While the chicken is cooking, you can prepare any sides or salads to go with your meal. Some popular side dishes include French fries, tater tots, sweet potato fries, onion rings, or a variety of vegetables. You can also offer dipping sauces such as BBQ sauce, ranch, or honey sriracha sauce.

Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the air fryer immediately to prevent overcooking. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your juicy and flavorful air-fried chicken tenderloins!

Flip halfway through

When cooking frozen chicken tenderloins in an air fryer, it is important to flip the meat halfway through the cooking process. This ensures that the chicken cooks evenly on both sides and helps to prevent overcooking or drying out.

To cook frozen chicken tenderloins in an air fryer, start by preheating the air fryer to the desired temperature. Most recipes recommend preheating to temperatures between 350 and 400 degrees Fahrenheit, with 350 degrees being recommended to prevent the chicken from drying out. Once preheated, place the frozen chicken tenderloins in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don't overlap.

Set the timer for 15 minutes for larger tenderloins, or slightly less for thinner ones. Then, flip the tenderloins halfway through the cooking time. For thicker cuts of chicken, instead of increasing the cooking time, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. According to the USDA, chicken is safely cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

After flipping the tenderloins, continue cooking until the chicken is no longer pink in the center and the juices run clear. Depending on the thickness of the chicken and the desired level of doneness, this may take an additional 8 minutes or so. Once the chicken has reached the desired level of doneness, remove it from the air fryer and let it cool before serving.

It is important to note that the cooking time and temperature may vary slightly depending on the specific air fryer model and the thickness of the chicken tenderloins. Always refer to the manufacturer's instructions and adjust the cooking time and temperature accordingly.

Check internal temperature

Checking the internal temperature of your chicken tenderloins is a crucial step in ensuring they are cooked properly and safely. The USDA recommends that chicken be cooked to a minimum internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to prevent foodborne illness.

To check the internal temperature of your chicken tenderloins, you can use a food thermometer, also known as a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the tenderloin, making sure not to touch any bone, as this will give an inaccurate reading. If you are cooking multiple tenderloins, check the temperature of each one, as they may vary depending on their size and thickness.

It is important to note that the temperature of the air fryer can affect the cooking time and internal temperature of the chicken. Different air fryer models may have varying temperature settings, so it is recommended to refer to the manufacturer's instructions or guidelines for your specific model. Additionally, the thickness and size of the tenderloins can impact the cooking time and internal temperature, so it is crucial to choose tenderloins of similar size and thickness to ensure even cooking.

When checking the internal temperature, it is essential to be cautious and avoid overcooking the chicken. Overcooked chicken can become tough and dry, affecting its taste and texture. Therefore, it is advisable to keep a close eye on the chicken while it is cooking and remove it from the air fryer as soon as it reaches the desired internal temperature of 165°F. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your chicken tenderloins are cooked thoroughly, safely, and perfectly every time.

Rest and serve

Once the chicken tenderloins are cooked, remove them from the air fryer and let them cool down. You can then serve them with a squeeze of lemon juice and some freshly chopped parsley. It is important to note that the USDA recommends that chicken should be cooked to a minimum internal temperature of 165°F. This can be measured with a food thermometer.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, preheat the air fryer to 350°F and heat for one to five minutes. You can also reheat the chicken in a microwave if you are short on time.

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