How Long to Cook Chicken Tenderloins in Air Fryer?
Air fryers have become increasingly popular in recent years, offering a quick and easy way to cook delicious, crispy meals. One of the most popular foods to cook in an air fryer is chicken tenderloins. But how long should you cook chicken tenderloins in an air fryer to ensure they’re cooked through and still juicy?
The answer to this question depends on several factors, including the size and thickness of the chicken tenderloins and the temperature of your air fryer. In general, you can expect to cook chicken tenderloins in an air fryer for 8-12 minutes at 380 degrees Fahrenheit.
Factors That Affect Cooking Time
Several factors can affect how long you need to cook chicken tenderloins in an air fryer:
- Size and thickness of the chicken tenderloins: Larger and thicker chicken tenderloins will take longer to cook than smaller and thinner ones.
- Temperature of your air fryer: Cooking at a higher temperature will reduce the cooking time, while cooking at a lower temperature will increase it.
- Whether the chicken is frozen or fresh: Frozen chicken will take longer to cook than fresh chicken.
Steps on Cooking Chicken Tenderloins in Air Fryer
Here are the steps to cook chicken tenderloins in an air fryer:
- Preheat your air fryer to 380 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Place the chicken tenderloins in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- Cook for 8-12 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown.
- Shake the basket halfway through the cooking time to ensure even cooking.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.
Tips and Expert Advice
Here are a few tips and expert advice for cooking chicken tenderloins in an air fryer:
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through. The internal temperature of the chicken should be at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. This will prevent the chicken from cooking evenly.
- Season the chicken with your favorite spices. This will add flavor and make the chicken more delicious.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about cooking chicken tenderloins in an air fryer:
- How long do I cook frozen chicken tenderloins in an air fryer? Frozen chicken tenderloins will take longer to cook than fresh chicken tenderloins. You can expect to cook frozen chicken tenderloins in an air fryer for 12-15 minutes at 380 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Can I cook chicken tenderloins in an air fryer without breading? Yes, you can cook chicken tenderloins in an air fryer without breading. However, the chicken will not be as crispy as it would be if it were breaded.
- What are some good dipping sauces for chicken tenderloins? Some good dipping sauces for chicken tenderloins include BBQ sauce, honey mustard, and ranch dressing.
Conclusion
Cooking chicken tenderloins in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to make a delicious and healthy meal. You can cook chicken tenderloins in an air fryer in just 8-12 minutes. By following the tips and expert advice in this article, you can ensure that your chicken tenderloins are cooked through, juicy, and flavorful.
