Air Fryer Cracker Barrel Chicken Tenderloins
Air Fryer Cracker Barrel Chicken Tenderloins are a quick, juicy, and flavorful take on the restaurant classic. Marinated in Italian dressing, garlic, honey, and lime juice, then air-fried to golden perfection, they’re an easy weeknight dinner ready in under 30 minutes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus marinating)
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20–30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner, Main Course
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- ½ cup Italian dressing
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 lb chicken tenderloins (or chicken breasts sliced into strips)
- Salt and pepper to taste (optional)
- Cooking spray for the air fryer basket
Instructions
- In a bowl or resealable bag, combine Italian dressing, garlic, honey, and lime juice.
- Add chicken and toss to coat. Marinate at least 1 hour or overnight.
- Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly spray basket with cooking spray.
- Remove chicken from marinade, shaking off excess. Arrange in single layer.
- Air fry 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and internal temp reaches 165°F.
- Rest 2 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Swap lime juice for lemon or orange for variation.
- Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce for spice.
- Boneless chicken thighs work well for extra richness.
- To bake instead, cook at 400°F for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 240
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 510mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
