Description
Juicy, flavorful chicken tenderloins marinated in Italian dressing, honey, garlic, and lime juice, then air-fried to golden perfection. A quick, mess-free way to enjoy Cracker Barrel-style chicken at home.
Ingredients
Chicken Tenderloins:
- 1 lb chicken tenderloins
Marinade:
- 1/2 cup Italian dressing (zesty variety recommended)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare Marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together the Italian dressing, garlic, honey, lime juice, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Marinate Chicken: Add chicken tenderloins to the bowl, toss to coat, and marinate covered in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes (up to 1 hour).
- Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 400°F and lightly spray the basket with olive oil spray.
- Cook Chicken: Arrange the marinated tenderloins in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F).
- Rest and Serve: Remove chicken and let rest for 2–3 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Use lemon juice instead of lime for a different citrus flavor.
- Add cayenne or sriracha to the marinade for heat, or smoked paprika for a smoky profile.
- For a crispy version, coat in seasoned breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes before air frying.
- Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
