Air Fryer Chicken Fillet Tenderloins: Juicy 30-Minute Delight

Name: Air Fryer Chicken Fillet Tenderloins: Juicy 30-Minute Delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound chicken fillet tenderloins; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste

By:

Christina R. Jones

November 3, 2025

This image was generated using artificial intelligence to illustrate the appearance of the recipe.

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If you haven’t jumped on the air fryer bandwagon yet, let me tell you, you’re missing out! Air frying has completely transformed the way I cook, and one of my absolute go-to recipes is these air fryer chicken fillet tenderloins. They’re juicy, flavorful, and oh-so-quick to make! Seriously, you can whip up a delicious, healthy meal in under 30 minutes – perfect for those busy weeknights when you don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.

What I love most about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can serve these tenderloins with a crisp salad, toss them in a wrap, or even throw them on a bed of rice for a filling meal. I remember the first time I made them; my kids devoured them, completely forgetting they were eating something healthy! The aroma of garlic and paprika wafting through the house was enough to have everyone gathered around the dinner table in no time. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll become a staple in your home, too!

Ingredients for Air Fryer Chicken Fillet Tenderloins

Let’s gather our ingredients to make these mouthwatering air fryer chicken fillet tenderloins. Each one plays a vital role in ensuring your dish turns out perfectly flavorful and juicy!

1 pound chicken fillet tenderloins: These are the stars of the show! Look for tenderloins that are plump and fresh. They cook quickly and stay juicy, making them perfect for air frying.
1 tablespoon olive oil: This not only adds great flavor but also helps the seasonings adhere to the chicken. Opt for extra virgin olive oil for a richer taste.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: A must for that delightful savory punch! It brings a warm, aromatic flavor that pairs beautifully with chicken.
1 teaspoon onion powder: This complements the garlic powder perfectly and adds depth to the overall flavor profile of the tenderloins.
1 teaspoon paprika: For a touch of smokiness and a lovely color! If you prefer a bit of heat, you can use smoked paprika or even a spicy variant.
Salt and pepper to taste: Don’t forget these essentials! Just a pinch adds balance and brings out the natural flavors of the chicken.

With these simple yet effective ingredients, you’ll create a dish that’s not only delicious but also incredibly satisfying. Let’s get ready to cook!

How to Prepare Air Fryer Chicken Fillet Tenderloins

Now that we have our ingredients ready, it’s time to dive into the fun part: preparing these air fryer chicken fillet tenderloins! Follow these simple steps for a dish that’s bursting with flavor.

Preheating the Air Fryer

First things first, preheating your air fryer is crucial! It ensures that your chicken cooks evenly and gets that lovely crispy exterior. Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and allow it to heat up for about 5 minutes. This small step makes a big difference, so don’t skip it!

Mixing the Seasoning

Next, let’s whip up our seasoning mix! In a medium-sized bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until it forms a smooth, cohesive mixture. You want it to be thick enough to coat the chicken but not too runny. Trust me, the aroma will already have you dreaming about the deliciousness to come!

Coating the Chicken

Now, it’s time to coat the chicken fillet tenderloins! Toss the tenderloins in the seasoning mixture, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. I like to use my hands for this part; it’s the best way to make sure every inch gets that tasty flavor. Just make sure your hands are clean! Lay the coated tenderloins on a plate or a clean surface, ready for the air fryer.

Cooking the Chicken in the Air Fryer

Place the seasoned chicken fillet tenderloins in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they’re not touching for even cooking. Set your timer for 10-12 minutes. Halfway through, flip the tenderloins to ensure they get that beautiful golden color on both sides. To check for doneness, use a meat thermometer; you’re looking for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Once they’re done, don’t rush! Let them rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute and keeps them nice and juicy!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are so many reasons to fall in love with these air fryer chicken fillet tenderloins! Here are just a few of the highlights:

Quick & Easy: This recipe comes together in just 22 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Healthy: With lean chicken and minimal oil, you’re serving up a nutritious meal without sacrificing flavor.
Flavorful: The seasoning blend of garlic, onion, and paprika creates a deliciously savory experience in every bite.
Versatile: Whether you serve them in a wrap, over rice, or with a salad, these tenderloins fit any meal.
Crispy Texture: The air fryer gives you that irresistible crispy exterior while keeping the inside juicy and tender.

Once you try these, they’ll quickly become a favorite in your household!

Tips for Success

To make sure your air fryer chicken fillet tenderloins turn out perfectly every time, here are my top tips:

Don’t overcrowd the basket: Give your tenderloins some space for even cooking and that crispy finish. If you have a lot, cook in batches!
Use a meat thermometer: This is your best friend! It ensures you hit that magic 165°F (75°C) for perfectly cooked chicken.
Marinate if you can: For extra flavor, let the chicken sit in the seasoning for a few hours or overnight. It’s worth the wait!
Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your taste. Add some cayenne for heat or dried herbs for a twist!

Follow these tips, and you’ll impress everyone with your juicy, flavorful tenderloins!

Nutritional Information

When it comes to enjoying delicious meals, knowing the nutritional values can help you make informed choices. For these air fryer chicken fillet tenderloins, here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutrition per serving:

Calories: 200
Protein: 30g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Carbohydrates: 1g
Sodium: 400mg
Cholesterol: 70mg
Fiber: 0g
Sugar: 0g

Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific ingredients or brands you choose, so it’s always a good idea to check your labels if you’re tracking your intake closely. Enjoy your healthy cooking!

FAQ About Air Fryer Chicken Fillet Tenderloins

I get a lot of questions about these air fryer chicken fillet tenderloins, so let’s tackle some of the most common ones to help you on your cooking journey!

How long do I cook chicken tenderloins in the air fryer?

For perfectly cooked chicken fillet tenderloins, you’ll want to set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and cook them for about 10-12 minutes. Just remember to flip them halfway through for an even, crispy finish!

Can I use frozen chicken tenderloins?

Yes, you can! Just note that frozen chicken fillet tenderloins will take longer to cook — about 15-18 minutes. Make sure to check the internal temperature to ensure they reach 165°F (75°C) for safe eating.

What should I serve with air fryer chicken tenderloins?

These tenderloins are super versatile! You can serve them with a fresh salad, in a wrap, or alongside some roasted veggies. They also pair beautifully with rice or quinoa for a hearty meal.

Can I marinate the chicken before cooking?

Absolutely! Marinating your chicken for a few hours or even overnight can infuse it with extra flavor. Just be sure to pat it dry before coating it with the seasoning mix to ensure a nice crisp texture.

How do I store leftovers?

If you have any leftovers (which I doubt, they’re that good!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the air fryer for a couple of minutes to bring back that crispy goodness!

Serving Suggestions and Storage Instructions

Pairing these air fryer chicken fillet tenderloins is a breeze! They’re fantastic alongside a crisp garden salad drizzled with your favorite vinaigrette. If you’re in the mood for something hearty, serve them over a bed of fluffy quinoa or brown rice, which soaks up all those delicious juices. You can also toss them in a wrap with some fresh veggies and a dab of ranch or hummus for a quick lunch on the go!

As for leftovers, if you happen to have any (but I doubt it!), let them cool completely before storing. Place the tenderloins in an airtight container and pop them in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, just give them a quick spin in the air fryer for a few minutes to restore that crispy texture. Trust me, you’ll want to enjoy these tenderloins again!