If you love Cracker Barrel’s grilled chicken tenderloins, you’re going to flip for this easy air fryer version! 🍗✨ These tenderloins are juicy, flavorful, and made with just a few simple ingredients. With a sweet and tangy marinade 🍯🍋 and that perfect golden char from the air fryer 🔥, this copycat recipe brings the comfort of Cracker Barrel right to your kitchen—no road trip needed! 🚗💨
🐔 Air Fryer Cracker Barrel Chicken Tenderloins
Ingredients:
1 ½ lbs chicken tenderloins
½ cup Italian dressing
1 tbsp honey
1 tsp lime juice (or lemon juice)
Cooking spray or a little oil for air fryer
Instructions:
Marinate the Chicken:
In a bowl or zip-top bag, mix Italian dressing, honey, and lime juice.
Add the chicken tenderloins and toss to coat well.
Cover and marinate for at least 1 hour (overnight for best flavor).
Preheat Air Fryer:
Set to 370°F (188°C) and let it preheat for a few minutes.
Air Fry the Chicken:
Spray the air fryer basket lightly with oil or nonstick spray.
Place marinated chicken in a single layer (work in batches if needed).
Cook for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and cooked through (internal temp 165°F).
Optional:
Brush a little extra marinade over the tenders during the last 1–2 minutes of cooking (boil it first if reusing).
📝 Tips:
These pair great with mashed potatoes, mac & cheese, or green beans for a true Cracker Barrel vibe.
Leftovers? Slice and use in wraps or salads!
Note 📝:
For best flavor, marinate the chicken overnight if you can! The longer it soaks, the more tender and tasty it becomes. Also, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket—cook in batches if needed for that perfect grilled texture. 💯
