Marianne Martinez
Turkey tenderloin is a versatile, inexpensive, and healthy cut of meat that can be cooked in an air fryer in under 30 minutes. The air fryer's efficiency allows you to cook turkey breast tenderloin in a fraction of the time it takes in the oven, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights and small Thanksgiving gatherings. In this article, we will answer the question How long do you cook turkey tenderloins in an air fryer? and provide tips for preparing juicy and flavorful turkey tenderloins.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Temperature | 350°F-400°F |
| Timing | 25-30 minutes |
| Internal Temperature | 165°F |
| Resting Time | 3-5 minutes |
| Reheating Time | 7-9 minutes |
| Reheating Temperature | 350°F |
| Seasoning | Smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, brown sugar, ground red pepper, rosemary, sage, basil, olive oil, butter, cajun seasoning, lemon, maple syrup, honey, mustard, cranberry sauce, BBQ sauce, pesto |
| Sides | Cranberry sauce, mashed potatoes, asparagus, garlic herb potatoes, creamed spinach, classic sage stuffing, air fryer acorn squash, maple and rosemary sauteed brussels sprouts, herb roasted carrots, cranberry jam, beet and feta salad, kale BLT salad, cauliflower rice, colcannon, cheddar biscuits |
Explore related products
What You'll Learn
How to season turkey tenderloins for air frying
Turkey tenderloins are very easy to flavour with a marinade or spices. You can season them with a simple combination of ingredients common for roasted turkey recipes, or you can get creative and experiment with different flavours.
First, rinse the tenderloins and pat them dry with paper towels. Then, brush the tenderloins with oil on both sides. You can use olive oil or vegetable oil. Next, make a dry rub by placing all of the seasonings into a small bowl. The seasonings you can use include smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, black pepper, and brown sugar. You can also add ground red pepper if you like your meat spicy. Mix the spices with the oil and apply the spice rub evenly on both sides of the tenderloins.
If you want to experiment with flavours, you can try different seasonings and ingredients. For example, you can make pesto-stuffed tenderloin by cutting a slit lengthwise in the tenderloin and stuffing it with pesto sauce. You can also try a cranberry glaze by brushing the tenderloin with cranberry sauce, maple syrup, and Dijon mustard. For a sweet and tangy flavour, wrap the tenderloin with bacon slices and brush it with honey and Dijon mustard. If you like BBQ sauce, you can brush the tenderloin with your preferred smoky BBQ sauce.
Finally, place the seasoned tenderloins in the air fryer and cook at 380°F for 20-30 minutes, flipping the tenderloins over halfway through the cooking process. The internal temperature of the tenderloin should reach 165°F. Once the turkey is cooked, let it rest for 3-5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Air-Fryer Chicken Poppers: Quick, Crispy, and Delicious!
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Air fryer temperature and time
The air fryer temperature and time for cooking turkey tenderloins vary depending on the size of the tenderloins and the model of the air fryer. It is recommended to cook turkey tenderloins at a temperature between 350°F and 400°F for 20 to 30 minutes.
For example, one source recommends preheating the air fryer to 350°F and cooking the tenderloins for 12 minutes, then flipping them and cooking for an additional 10 minutes. This source also suggests using a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Another source recommends preheating the air fryer to 400°F and cooking the tenderloins for 25 minutes, turning them once during cooking. This source also suggests checking the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F.
It is important to note that the cooking time may vary depending on the size of the tenderloins. Larger tenderloins may require a longer cooking time, while smaller tenderloins may cook faster. Additionally, it is recommended to let the meat rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute and ensure the meat is juicy and tender.
Some sources also recommend coating the tenderloins with olive oil, butter, or maple syrup before cooking to add flavor and moisture. Various seasonings and spices can also be used to enhance the flavor of the tenderloins, such as garlic, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Air Fryer and Aluminum: Safe to Use?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Internal temperature of cooked turkey tenderloin
The internal temperature of cooked turkey tenderloin is crucial to ensuring that the meat is safe to eat and optimally cooked. The recommended internal temperature for cooked turkey tenderloin is 165°F. This temperature is consistent across various cooking methods, including air frying, oven baking, and skillet searing.
Using a meat thermometer is the most accurate way to determine the internal temperature of the tenderloin. The thermometer should be inserted into the thickest part of the meat to get a precise reading. It is important to note that the temperature of the raw meat can impact the cooking time, with some recipes suggesting bringing the meat to room temperature before cooking.
When cooking turkey tenderloin in an air fryer, the internal temperature should reach 165°F. This can be achieved by air frying at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, depending on the size of the tenderloin. It is important to flip the tenderloin once during cooking to ensure even cooking.
Similarly, when oven-baking turkey tenderloin, a two-part cooking method is recommended. This involves searing the meat in a skillet for one minute on each side before transferring it to an oven preheated to 325-350°F. The tenderloin is then baked for 15 minutes, removed from the oven, and allowed to rest under tin foil for 10 minutes until it reaches the desired internal temperature of 165°F.
In summary, achieving an internal temperature of 165°F is essential for food safety and optimal cooking of turkey tenderloin. This temperature remains consistent across different cooking methods, and a meat thermometer is the best tool to ensure accuracy.
Air Fryer Chicken and Chips: Can You Cook Together?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
How to reheat turkey tenderloins in an air fryer
Turkey tenderloins are a great option for a healthy, low-carb, and low-fat meal. They are easy to cook and can be seasoned in a variety of ways to suit your taste. If you have leftover turkey tenderloins, you can easily reheat them in an air fryer to enjoy a delicious and tender meal again. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to reheat turkey tenderloins in an air fryer:
Step 1: Prepare the Turkey Tenderloins
Take the leftover turkey tenderloins out of the refrigerator and let them sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes. This step is important as it helps to remove the chill and ensures even reheating. You can also rinse the tenderloins and pat them dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture.
Step 2: Preheat the Air Fryer
Set the air fryer to a low temperature of around 325°F to 350°F. Preheat the air fryer for 3-5 minutes to ensure proper airflow and quick reheating.
Step 3: Prepare the Turkey for Reheating
To keep the turkey moist during reheating, you can use a variety of liquids. You can use turkey broth, chicken broth, vegetable broth, or even water mixed with a bit of gravy. Drizzle a small amount of liquid over the tenderloins or add it to the foil packet or baking dish in the next step.
Step 4: Place the Turkey in the Air Fryer
If you have a small portion of turkey, create a foil packet by placing the tenderloins on a layer of foil and sealing the foil completely. This helps to retain moisture and keep the steam inside. For larger portions, consider using an oven-safe baking dish that fits comfortably in your air fryer basket. Place the prepared turkey tenderloins into the preheated air fryer, ensuring they are not stacked or touching to allow proper airflow.
Step 5: Reheat the Turkey Tenderloins
Set the timer and reheat the turkey tenderloins for 7-10 minutes per pound of meat, or until thoroughly heated. For smaller portions or slices, adjust the time to 4-5 minutes or until heated through. The exact time may vary depending on the power and model of your air fryer, so keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Once the timer goes off, carefully remove the foil packet or baking dish from the air fryer. Open the foil carefully, as steam will have built up inside. Your turkey tenderloins are now ready to be enjoyed! Let the meat rest for a couple of minutes before slicing and serving to allow the juices to redistribute and ensure tenderness.
By following these steps, you can conveniently reheat your leftover turkey tenderloins in an air fryer, ensuring they remain moist, tender, and flavorful. Enjoy your delicious and hassle-free meal!
Air Fryer Bacon: Messy or Tasty?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
What to serve with air fryer turkey tenderloins
Air fryer turkey tenderloins are a great option for a quick, tasty, and healthy meal. They are low-carb, low-fat, gluten-free, and can be cooked in about 30 minutes. The tenderloins are also versatile and can be paired with various sides to elevate your meal. Here are some ideas for what to serve with air fryer turkey tenderloins:
Classic Options
Cranberry sauce is a classic pairing with turkey. You can make your own cranberry sauce or glaze, or opt for a store-bought option. Mashed potatoes are another classic side dish that goes well with turkey. If you want to keep things simple, you can make instant mashed potatoes or elevate them with garlic and Parmesan.
Vegetables
Air-fried vegetables are a great option to stay healthy and use your air fryer. You can try air fryer asparagus, herb-roasted carrots, or roasted Brussels sprouts. If you want something a little more indulgent, you could make garlic herb potatoes or sweet potato wedges.
Salads
A fresh salad can also be a great side dish to balance out your meal. Try a Beet and Feta Salad or a Kale BLT Salad.
Sauces and Dips
You can also serve your air fryer turkey tenderloins with various sauces and dips. Gravy is a classic option, and you can make your own or buy it pre-made. Chimichurri, a Mexican or Red variety, can also add a nice flavor profile to your meal.
Starches
For a starch option, you can try Homemade Cauliflower Rice or Colcannon, which is an Irish dish made with rutabagas.
Breads
Lastly, some form of bread is always a great side for any meal. Gluten-free biscuits, such as Cheddar Biscuits made with almond flour, can be a tasty and allergy-friendly option.
With these options, you can create a delicious and balanced meal to enjoy your air fryer turkey tenderloins.
Air-Fryer Fish: No Breading, No Problem!
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
It takes about 25-30 minutes to cook turkey tenderloins in an air fryer.
The air fryer should be preheated to 350°F–400°F.
The internal temperature of the tenderloins should reach 165°F. You can use a meat thermometer to check this.
Store leftover turkey tenderloins in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, use the microwave for 1-2 minutes or the air fryer for 7-9 minutes at 350°F.
