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Cracker Barrel-Style Chicken Tenderloins

Crispy Cracker Barrel-Style Chicken Tenderloins Made Easy

This easy recipe for Cracker Barrel-Style Chicken Tenderloins brings juicy, flavorful chicken to your dinner table in under 30 minutes.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Marinating Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 4 tenderloins
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1 pound Chicken Tenderloins Substitute with boneless, skinless chicken breasts if tenderloins are unavailable.
For the Marinade
  • 1 cup Italian Dressing Can be swapped for balsamic or lemon vinaigrette.
  • 2 tablespoons Honey Substitute with maple syrup for a vegan option.
  • 2 tablespoons Lime Juice Substitute with lemon juice for a similar effect.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Fresh garlic can be used if preferred.
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder Can omit if not available.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Adjust based on dietary needs.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper Increase for a spicier kick.

Equipment

  • Air Fryer

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the Italian dressing, honey, lime juice, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
  2. Place the chicken tenderloins in a zip-top bag and pour the marinade over the top. Seal the bag, ensuring to remove any excess air, and gently massage the chicken to coat it thoroughly. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
  3. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This step typically takes about 5 minutes.
  4. Remove the chicken from the marinade and arrange it in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
  5. Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes on a plate before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1tenderloinCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 35gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 1gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 700mgPotassium: 400mgSugar: 5gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 1mgIron: 6mg

Notes

Allow the chicken to rest for at least 5 minutes after cooking. For best flavor, let the chicken marinate for at least 1 hour, or overnight if possible.

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