Description
Deliciously seasoned chicken tenderloins cooked to perfection in the air fryer, offering a quick, flavorful, and healthy meal option with a crispy exterior and juicy interior.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Marinade
- 1 lb chicken tenderloins
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp light brown sugar
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Cooking spray (for air fryer basket)
Instructions
- Prepare the marinade: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken tenderloins with olive oil, light brown sugar, garlic powder, smoked paprika, dried oregano, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Toss everything together until the chicken is thoroughly coated with the marinade.
- Marinate the chicken: Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or transfer the chicken tenders to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld, or marinate overnight for deeper flavor.
- Preheat the air fryer: Set your air fryer to 400°F (204°C) and allow it to preheat. While it’s heating, spray the air fryer basket with olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Cook the chicken: Arrange the marinated chicken tenderloins in a single, even layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 8 minutes, flipping the tenders halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning. Adjust time slightly depending on tenderloin size to reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Serve: Once cooked through and nicely browned, remove the chicken tenderloins from the air fryer. Serve immediately and enjoy a quick, flavorful meal.
Notes
- Marinating overnight enhances the flavor and tenderness of the chicken.
- Ensure chicken pieces are arranged in a single layer to allow even cooking and crispiness.
- Use a meat thermometer to verify the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
- Feel free to adjust spices according to your heat preference—add more chili powder for extra spice.
- Cooking times may vary based on air fryer model and chicken size; always monitor closely to avoid overcooking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: air fryer chicken, chicken tenderloins, healthy chicken recipe, quick chicken dinner, air fried chicken, easy chicken recipe
