Fast and Easy – I can get this dish on the table in just 20 minutes, perfect for busy nights.
Delicious Marinade – The combination of honey, lime, and Italian dressing gives these tenderloins a bold, sweet-savory flavor I can’t get enough of.
Crispy Without Oil – The air fryer creates a perfectly golden crust without deep frying or heavy breading.
Healthy and Light – Naturally dairy-free and packed with lean protein, this is one of my favorite guilt-free comfort meals.
Minimal Cleanup – Everything comes together in one bowl and one air fryer basket, which means less time at the sink afterward.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Main Ingredients 1 pound chicken tenderloins
Marinade 1/2 cup Italian dressing 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 tablespoons honey 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice 1 teaspoon kosher salt 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
Directions
I start by whisking together the Italian dressing, garlic, honey, lime juice, salt, and pepper in a large bowl until the marinade is smooth and well combined.
I add the chicken tenderloins to the bowl, making sure each piece is fully coated. Then I cover the bowl and let it marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes (an hour if I have the time for maximum flavor).
I preheat the air fryer to 400°F and spray the basket lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking.
I arrange the marinated tenderloins in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they’re not overcrowded. I cook them for 10 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure even browning.
Once cooked and golden, I transfer the tenderloins to a plate and let them rest for 2 to 3 minutes before serving.
Spicy version – I add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade when I want some heat.
Herb twist – Fresh chopped cilantro or parsley added before serving gives a bright herbal finish.
Breaded option – For a crunchier texture, I lightly coat the tenderloins in seasoned breadcrumbs after marinating (before air frying).
Different protein – I sometimes use the same marinade for shrimp or pork tenderloin with great results.
Storage/Reheating
If I have leftovers, I store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, I pop them back into the air fryer at 350°F for 3–4 minutes, or until warmed through. They also reheat well in the microwave, though the texture is slightly softer. These tenderloins are great for tossing into salads or wraps the next day.
FAQs
Can I marinate the chicken overnight?
Yes, I can marinate it overnight for deeper flavor. I just make sure it’s well-covered in the fridge and give it a good toss before cooking.
What if I don’t have Italian dressing?
I mix olive oil, vinegar, a little mustard, herbs, garlic, and a pinch of sugar to make a quick homemade version that works just as well.
Do I need to flip the chicken in the air fryer?
Yes, flipping the chicken halfway through helps it cook evenly and get that golden crust on both sides.
Can I use frozen chicken tenderloins?
I always thaw them completely before marinating so they soak up all the flavor. Frozen chicken won’t marinate properly.
What should I serve with this?
I love serving these tenderloins with a fresh green salad, roasted veggies, rice, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
Conclusion
These Air Fryer Chicken Tenderloins are a delicious blend of convenience, flavor, and healthy cooking. Whether I’m making a fast dinner or prepping lunches for the week, this recipe always comes through. The honey-lime marinade gives every bite a perfect balance of sweet and savory, while the air fryer delivers that irresistible golden finish in just minutes.
Juicy chicken tenderloins with a honey-lime marinade, air-fried to crispy golden perfection. A fast, flavorful main dish ready in 20 minutes.
Author:Sarah
Prep Time:10 minutes
Cook Time:10 Minutes
Total Time:20 Minutes
Yield:4 Servings
Category:Main Dishes
Method:Air Fryer
Cuisine:American
Ingredients
→ Main Ingredients
1 pound chicken tenderloins
→ Marinade
1/2 cup Italian dressing
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons honey
2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions
Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, whisk together Italian dressing, garlic, honey, lime juice, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Marinate Chicken:
Add chicken tenderloins to the bowl and toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 1 hour.
Preheat Air Fryer:
Set air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray the basket with olive oil spray.
Cook Chicken:
Place marinated tenderloins in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 10 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and internal temp reaches 165°F (74°C).
Rest and Serve:
Let chicken rest for 2–3 minutes before serving.
Notes
Marinating for a full hour enhances flavor.
Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket for even cooking.
Leftovers can be stored in the fridge and reheated easily.
