1. Prepare the Marinade:
- In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the Italian dressing, honey, lemon juice, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, black pepper, and salt. Whisk the ingredients together until well blended.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
- Place the chicken tenderloins in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring that all pieces are evenly coated.
- Seal the bag or cover the dish, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. For best results, marinate the chicken for up to 4 hours to allow the flavors to fully penetrate the meat.
3. Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes. Preheating ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and gets a nice crispy coating.
4. Air Fry the Chicken Tenderloins:
- Remove the chicken tenderloins from the marinade and let any excess drip off. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil spray to prevent sticking.
- Arrange the tenderloins in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they do not overlap. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook the chicken in batches.
- Air fry the chicken tenderloins at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through. The tenderloins should be golden brown and have an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) when done.
5. Serve:
- Once cooked, remove the chicken tenderloins from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the meat tender and juicy.
- Serve the tenderloins with your favorite dipping sauce, such as honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or ranch dressing.
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Cracker Barrel Chicken Tenderloins
- Don’t Skip the Marinade: Marinating the chicken is key to achieving the flavorful, juicy tenderloins that Cracker Barrel is known for. The longer you marinate, the better the flavor.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheating ensures that the chicken starts cooking immediately when it’s placed in the air fryer, helping to achieve a crispy exterior.
- Cook in Batches if Necessary: If your air fryer is small, cook the tenderloins in batches. Overcrowding the basket can prevent the chicken from cooking evenly and getting crispy.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure the chicken is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 165°F (74°C).
- Brush with Extra Marinade: For extra flavor, brush the chicken with a little of the reserved marinade during the last few minutes of cooking. Be sure to discard any marinade that has come into contact with raw chicken.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy and Juicy: The air fryer cooks the chicken to perfection, giving you tender meat with a crispy exterior.
- Full of Flavor: The marinade is packed with sweet, tangy, and savory flavors that mimic the famous Cracker Barrel taste.
- Quick and Easy: This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Serving Suggestions
- With Sides: Serve these chicken tenderloins with classic sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh garden salad.
- In a Wrap: For a quick lunch, slice the tenderloins and add them to a tortilla with lettuce, tomato, and your favorite sauce.
- Over Rice: Pair the chicken with steamed rice and vegetables for a wholesome, filling meal.
Variations to Try
- Spicy Version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the marinade for a spicy kick.
- Honey BBQ: Substitute the honey with BBQ sauce in the marinade for a sweet and smoky flavor.
This Air Fryer Cracker Barrel Chicken Tenderloins recipe is a fantastic way to bring the taste of your favorite restaurant home. With minimal prep and quick cooking time, it’s an easy yet impressive dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the delicious combination of flavors and textures that make these tenderloins irresistible!