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Air Fryer Chicken Tenderloins Recipe
Ben Carraoli

Air Fryer Chicken Tenderloins Recipe

I recently made these air fryer chicken tenderloins, and honestly, I can’t stop thinking about how perfectly juicy and crispy they turned out. I was craving something quick but still packed with flavor, and this recipe delivered exactly that.
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 220

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb chicken tenderloins
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Optional: ¼ teaspoon chili flakes

Method
 

  1. Start by patting the chicken tenderloins dry using paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps the seasoning stick better and ensures a crispier texture. Place them in a mixing bowl, ready for seasoning.
  2. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and toss to coat evenly. Add garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix well so each piece is fully coated with flavor.
  3. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for a few minutes. This step helps the chicken cook evenly and gives it a nice golden exterior. Skipping preheating may result in uneven cooking.
  4. Place the seasoned chicken tenderloins in a single layer inside the air fryer basket. Make sure they are not overcrowded, as proper air circulation is key for even cooking and crispiness.
  5. Air fry the chicken for about 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through. The chicken should be golden on the outside and fully cooked inside, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
  6. Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a couple of minutes before serving. This helps retain the juices, making each bite tender and flavorful. Serve warm with your favorite sides or dips.

Notes

  • I always preheat my air fryer—it truly makes a difference in texture.
  • I avoid overcrowding the basket so the chicken cooks evenly and gets crispy.
  • I sometimes marinate the chicken for 30 minutes if I want a deeper flavor.
  • I like adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs at the end for a fresh touch.
  • I check doneness with a thermometer to avoid overcooking.