I’ve always been a fan of recreating restaurant favorites at home, especially when they come out lighter and just as tasty. The Cracker Barrel chicken tenderloins are one of those comfort dishes that always hit the spot—juicy, flavorful, and full of that home-cooked charm. Instead of pan-frying, I decided to give them a twist with the air fryer, and the results were everything I hoped for: golden, tender, and seasoned perfectly.
What I love most about this recipe is that it’s incredibly simple yet packs in so much flavor. With just a handful of pantry staples and a little marinating time, you can whip up a dish that tastes like it came straight out of the restaurant kitchen. Whether you’re planning a quick weeknight dinner, meal prepping, or putting together a cozy weekend meal, these Air Fryer Cracker Barrel Chicken Tenderloins are bound to become a favorite in your rotation.
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Chicken tenderloins: These are the star of the show—naturally tender, juicy, and quick to cook. They’re lean yet flavorful, making them perfect for absorbing the marinade and crisping up beautifully in the air fryer.
Italian dressing: This acts as both a marinade and a flavor booster. Its tangy, herby profile penetrates the chicken, helping to tenderize it while giving it a zesty punch that balances the richness of the meat.
Honey: A touch of sweetness from honey rounds out the savory and tangy notes. It helps caramelize the chicken slightly in the air fryer, creating that crave-worthy golden finish.
Lime juice: Fresh lime juice brightens everything up, cutting through the richness with a citrusy zing. It works alongside the dressing to tenderize the chicken while adding a refreshing lift to the overall flavor.
Olive oil spray: A light spritz before cooking ensures the chicken doesn’t stick to the air fryer basket and helps promote that even, golden-brown color on the outside.
Ingredients List
- 1 ½ pounds chicken tenderloins
- ½ cup Italian dressing
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- Olive oil spray (for air fryer basket)
How to Make Air Fryer Cracker Barrel Chicken Tenderloins
Step 1: Marinate the chicken
In a large bowl, whisk together the Italian dressing, honey, and lime juice. Add the chicken tenderloins and toss until they’re fully coated. Cover the bowl and let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or overnight for maximum flavor.
Step 2: Preheat the air fryer
When ready to cook, preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3–5 minutes. This step helps ensure even cooking and that nice golden sear on the chicken.
Step 3: Arrange the chicken
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil spray. Place the marinated chicken tenderloins in a single layer, leaving a little space between each piece to allow the hot air to circulate properly.
Step 4: Cook the chicken
Air fry the chicken for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through. The tenderloins should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and be beautifully golden on the outside while staying juicy inside.
Step 5: Serve and enjoy
Remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for 2–3 minutes. Serve warm with your favorite sides—mashed potatoes, green beans, or even a crisp salad work wonderfully.
Tips for Making this Recipe
- Marinate longer if you have the time—overnight marination gives the chicken an even deeper flavor.
- Don’t overcrowd the basket; if needed, cook in batches so the chicken crisps properly.
- For extra flavor, brush a little more honey-lime mixture over the chicken halfway through cooking.
- If you prefer a little spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne to the marinade.
- Always let the chicken rest for a couple of minutes after air frying; this locks in the juices.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenderloins?
Yes! Just cut them into strips similar in size to tenderloins so they cook evenly.
Do I have to use Italian dressing?
Not necessarily. You can swap it for a homemade vinaigrette or another dressing with herbs and acidity.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep cooked chicken tenderloins in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer for best texture.
Can I freeze the marinated chicken?
Absolutely! Place the chicken with the marinade in a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before cooking.
What sides go best with this recipe?
Classic Southern sides like mashed potatoes, corn, or green beans are perfect, but you can also serve with a fresh salad or roasted veggies for a lighter option.