Name: Air Fryer Cracker Barrel Chicken Tenderloins
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: PT-488035H18M6S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 lbs chicken tenderloins; 1/4 cup Italian dressing; 2 tablespoons honey; 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (or lemon juice); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

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Juicy, golden Air Fryer Cracker Barrel Chicken Tenderloins marinated in a zesty honey-lime sauce—this recipe is my lighter, crispier take on Cracker Barrel’s beloved dish, made effortlessly in the air fryer. It's everything I love about the original, but with a healthier twist and no greasy mess.

Air Fryer Cracker Barrel Chicken Tenderloins

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 ½ lbs chicken tenderloins

¼ cup Italian dressing

2 tablespoons honey

2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (or lemon juice)

1 tablespoon olive oil

½ teaspoon garlic powder

½ teaspoon salt

¼ teaspoon black pepper

Directions

I start by whisking together the Italian dressing, honey, lime juice, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a medium bowl.

Then, I add the chicken tenderloins to the marinade, toss to coat them evenly, and let them sit for at least 30 minutes (overnight is best for deeper flavor).

While the chicken marinates, I preheat my air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and lightly spray the basket with cooking spray.

Once ready, I arrange the marinated tenderloins in a single layer in the air fryer basket—cooking in batches if necessary.

I air fry them for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re golden brown and cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F / 74°C).

I serve them hot, often with mashed potatoes, veggies, or a dipping sauce like honey mustard or ranch—just like they do at Cracker Barrel.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4 servings

Prep time: 10 minutes (plus marinating)

Cook time: 10 minutes

Total time: 20 minutes active

Calories: Approximately 230 kcal per serving

Variations

I sometimes swap the lime juice for lemon juice for a slightly different citrus note. For a spicy kick, I add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade. If I want a smokier flavor, I like to mix in a dash of smoked paprika. These tenderloins also work great sliced over a salad or wrapped in a tortilla for a quick lunch.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftover chicken tenderloins in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I pop them back in the air fryer at 350°F for about 3–4 minutes to maintain that crispiness. They can also be reheated in the microwave, but I find they stay juicier with the air fryer method.

FAQs

How long should I marinate the chicken?

I recommend at least 30 minutes, but marinating overnight brings out the best flavor and tenderness.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenderloins?

Yes, I slice chicken breasts into strips if I don’t have tenderloins on hand. Just make sure they’re roughly the same size for even cooking.

What dipping sauces go well with this?

I love serving these with honey mustard, ranch, or a creamy BBQ sauce. Even a spicy aioli works great if I want to mix it up.

Can I freeze the marinated chicken?

Absolutely. I freeze the chicken in the marinade in a zip-top bag, then thaw it overnight in the fridge before cooking.

Do I need to flip the chicken in the air fryer?

Yes, I flip the chicken halfway through cooking to make sure both sides get evenly golden and crispy.

Conclusion

This Air Fryer Cracker Barrel Chicken Tenderloins recipe is my go-to for a fast, flavorful meal that tastes just like the restaurant version—only healthier. The honey-lime marinade makes the chicken juicy and vibrant, while the air fryer keeps it perfectly crisp. It’s a family favorite in my kitchen, and I love how easily it comes together, even on the busiest nights.

Recipe:

Air Fryer Cracker Barrel Chicken Tenderloins

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Author: Cheryl
Total Time: 20 minutes active
Yield: 4 servings
Diet: Low Fat

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Description

Juicy, golden chicken tenderloins marinated in a zesty honey-lime sauce and air-fried for a healthier twist on Cracker Barrel’s classic dish. Quick, flavorful, and perfect for a weeknight meal.