- Prepare the Marinade: In a mixing bowl, combine the Italian dressing, honey, lime juice, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Whisk together until well blended.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken tenderloins in a Ziplock bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring all the tenderloins are well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more intense flavor.
Step 2: Air Fry the Chicken
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3 minutes.
- Arrange the Chicken: Remove the chicken tenderloins from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Arrange the tenderloins in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding; cook in batches if necessary.
- Air Fry: Cook the chicken at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through. The chicken should be golden brown and have an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked.
- Check for Doneness: If the tenderloins are not fully cooked or not as crispy as you’d like, you can air fry them for an additional 2-3 minutes, checking frequently.
Step 3: Serve and Enjoy
- Rest the Chicken: Allow the chicken tenderloins to rest for a minute or two after removing them from the air fryer. This helps the juices redistribute and keeps the chicken moist.
- Serve: Serve the tenderloins with your favorite dipping sauce, such as honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or ranch. They pair wonderfully with sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh salad.
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Chicken Tenderloins:
- Marinade Time: For maximum flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours or overnight if possible.
- Even Cooking: Make sure the tenderloins are arranged in a single layer in the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking.
- Avoid Drying Out: Don’t overcook the chicken. Tenderloins cook quickly, and air fryers can dry out meat if left in too long.
Variations:
- Spicy Tenderloins: Add some hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the marinade for a spicy version.
- Herb-Crusted Tenderloins: Add some fresh or dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley to the marinade for a herbaceous twist.
- Buttermilk Marinated: For extra tender and juicy chicken, you can marinate the tenderloins in buttermilk with the other marinade ingredients.
Conclusion
These Air Fryer Cracker Barrel Chicken Tenderloins are a delicious, healthier alternative to deep-fried chicken tenders, with all the flavor you love. The honey, lime, and Italian dressing marinade gives the chicken a sweet and tangy flavor profile that is simply irresistible. Whether you’re making these for a family dinner, a party, or just a snack, they’re sure to be a hit. Enjoy the perfect combination of crispiness and juiciness with every bite!