Air Fryer Cracker Barrel Chicken Tenderloins – Crispy, Juicy & Flavorful!

Air fry to golden perfection: Lightly mist the tops with cooking spray. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping once halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (internal temp ~165°F / 74°C).

Serve it up: Remove from the air fryer and let rest for a couple of minutes. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces like honey mustard, ranch, or BBQ!

Serving and Storage

Serving

• Serve these crispy tenderloins with mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or a fresh green salad for a hearty meal.
• Pair with classic sides like mac & cheese, corn on the cob, or garlic butter green beans.
• Offer an assortment of dipping sauces — ranch, honey mustard, and BBQ all work great!

Storage

• Refrigerator: Store cooled chicken in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze cooked and cooled tenderloins in freezer bags up to 2 months; thaw before reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes until crispy and heated through.

Tips

• Buttermilk soak: Soaking in buttermilk makes the chicken extra tender and flavorful — don’t skip it!
• Even coating: Press the flour mix firmly onto the chicken so it stays crispy during air frying.
• Avoid crowding: Give each tender space in the air fryer for even crispiness.
• Spray lightly: A light mist of oil helps achieve that golden crunch without deep frying.

Variations

• Parmesan Herb Tenders: Add grated Parmesan and dried Italian herbs to the flour mixture.
• Spicy Buffalo Style: Toss cooked tenders in buffalo sauce and serve with blue cheese dip.
• Lemon Pepper Crisps: Replace paprika with lemon pepper seasoning for bright flavor.
• Sriracha Honey Glaze: Mix honey and sriracha for a sweet‑spicy drizzle.

FAQ

• Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenderloins?
  Yes — just cut chicken breasts into strips of similar size before marinating and breading.
• Is this recipe gluten‑free?
  To make it gluten‑free, substitute gluten‑free flour and breadcrumbs if desired!
• Can I skip the buttermilk?
  You can — but the buttermilk soak adds moisture and tenderness. As a substitute, mix milk with a splash of vinegar.
• Can I make these spicy?
  Absolutely — increase cayenne or add chili powder to the flour mix for heat!

Conclusion

**Air Fryer Cracker Barrel Chicken Tenderloins** are a quick, flavorful way to enjoy crispy, homestyle chicken without frying. With a crunchy exterior and tender inside, these air fryer tenders are perfect for weeknight dinners, gatherings, or anytime you want a comfort‑food favorite with a healthier twist!