Frozen chicken tenderloins are a go-to when you need a quick, easy, and delicious meal for yourself or your family. Pair them with your trusty air fryer, and you’ve got a match made in heaven for crispy, golden-brown chicken that’s healthier than traditional frying methods.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about preparing frozen chicken tenderloins in an air fryer—from selecting the best brand to ensuring your chicken turns out irresistibly crispy. Whether you’re an air fryer pro or just starting out, these tips will make it easy to create tender, flavorful chicken every time.
Why Use an Air Fryer for Frozen Chicken Tenderloins?
Air fryers have revolutionized the way we cook frozen foods. Thanks to “hot air” technology, air fryers can crisp up chicken tenderloins without the need for excess oil. The benefits of using an air fryer include:
- Healthier cooking with less oil
- Quick results compared to traditional ovens
- Even crispiness with minimal effort
- Convenience for busy home cooks
But the key to an incredible meal lies not just in the equipment—it also depends on the chicken you choose.
Choosing the Right Brand of Frozen Chicken Tenderloins
Not all frozen chicken tenderloins are created equal. The brand you choose makes a difference when it comes to flavor, texture, and nutrition.
Popular Brands to Try
- Foster Farms Chicken Tenders: A fan favorite for their consistent quality and flavor.
- Tyson Frozen Chicken Tenders: Pre-breaded and deliciously crispy when cooked.
- Perdue Simply Smart Organics: For those seeking healthier, organic options without compromising taste.
Nutritional Considerations
When selecting frozen chicken tenderloins, keep these factors in mind:
- Protein content: Look for options with at least 15g of protein per serving.
- Calories: Opt for brands that meet your dietary needs, particularly if you’re on a calorie-controlled diet.
- Additives: Choose products with minimal artificial preservatives for a cleaner meal.
Preparing Your Air Fryer
A properly prepped air fryer is essential for optimal results.
Steps to Prep Your Air Fryer
- Preheat the Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) and preheat for 3-5 minutes. Preheating helps ensure even cooking and gives your chicken that golden-brown finish.
- Spray the Basket with Oil
Lightly spray your air fryer basket with an olive oil spray or other cooking spray. This prevents the chicken from sticking and promotes crispiness.
- Arrange Tenderloins in a Single Layer
Place your frozen chicken tenderloins in a single layer to allow air to circulate evenly around them. Avoid overcrowding for the best results.
Cooking Frozen Chicken Tenderloins in an Air Fryer
Follow these step-by-step instructions to cook tender, crispy chicken every time.
Cooking Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 380°F.
- Lightly spray the basket with olive oil spray.
- Arrange the chicken tenderloins in a single layer.
- Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The chicken is done when it reaches 165°F (74°C).
Cooking Tips for Different Thicknesses
- Thin tenderloins (less than ½ inch thick): Reduce cooking time to around 8-10 minutes.
- Thicker tenderloins (over 1 inch thick): Add an extra 2-3 minutes to the total cook time.
Special Instructions for the Ninja Foodi
If you’re using a Ninja Foodi, the process is slightly different due to its unique dual cooking features. Here’s how to make the most of this versatile appliance.
- Select Air Crisp mode instead of Bake or Roast.
- Preheat the Foodi to 380°F for 3 minutes.
- Follow the same cooking steps mentioned above, but for a Ninja Foodi, the results are typically crispier due to its superior air circulation.
Tips for Achieving Crispy Chicken
Want extra-crispy tenderloins? Try these tips:
- Pat dry the tenderloins before air frying to remove any ice crystals.
- Brush lightly with olive oil and season with garlic powder and black pepper before cooking.
- Add a sprinkle of bread crumbs for a crunchier texture.
- Flip tenderloins halfway through cooking to allow both sides to crisp up evenly.
Avoid common mistakes like overcrowding the basket or failing to preheat your air fryer. A few small changes can make a big difference!
Flavor Enhancements
Elevate your air-fried chicken tenderloins with marinades or seasoning blends:
- Simple Marinade: Combine olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and a squeeze of lemon. Coat chicken tenderloins and allow them to sit for 10 minutes before cooking.
- Spice Mix Suggestion: Mix cayenne pepper, oregano, black pepper, and a dash of salt for added flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your crispy chicken tenderloins with delicious sides and dipping sauces to create a complete meal.
- Sides
- Garlic roasted vegetables
- Sweet potato fries
- A fresh green salad with avocado
- Dipping Sauces
- Classic BBQ sauce
- Buffalo sauce for spicy lovers
- Garlic aioli for a rich, creamy kick
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers? No problem! Follow these tips to store your cooked chicken properly.
- Refrigerate
Place leftover chicken in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freeze
For longer storage, freeze leftover chicken tenderloins in a freezer-safe container. Reheat them in an air fryer at 360°F (182°C) for 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can You Cook Uncooked Frozen Chicken Tenderloins in an Air Fryer?
Yes! Cooking uncooked frozen chicken tenderloins in an air fryer is completely safe as long as you check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
2. How Do You Know When Chicken Tenderloins Are Done?
Use an instant-read meat thermometer to ensure your chicken is fully cooked. The temperature should register 165°F at the thickest part.
3. Can You Reheat Air-Fried Chicken Tenderloins?
Absolutely! Reheat your tenderloins in the air fryer at 360°F for 3-4 minutes. They’ll turn out just as crispy as when you first cooked them.
Elevate Your Air Fryer Experience
Cooking frozen chicken tenderloins in an air fryer is a quick, delicious, and healthy way to enjoy a flavorful meal at home. With the right preparation, seasoning, and cooking techniques, you’ll never turn back to frying or baking again.
If you’re ready to take your air fryer game to the next level, check out our air fryer recipe collection [insert link] for more inspiration!