Air Fryer Cracker Barrel-Style Chicken Tenderloins: Quick, Comforting, and So Dang Good

some nights, we just need something easy and good. Not fancy. Not fussy. Just something that tastes like it took effort… when really, it didn’t.

That’s exactly what these air fryer grilled chicken tenderloins are.

They’re inspired by the Cracker Barrel classic (you know the ones — slightly tangy, a little sweet, juicy as all get-out). But this version doesn’t require a grill, a marinade that takes all day, or even a frying pan. Just your trusty air fryer and a few pantry staples.

The first time I made these, I had about 45 minutes to get dinner on the table, the kids were arguing about whose turn it was to feed the dog, and I realized I hadn’t thawed anything but a lonely pack of chicken tenderloins. We were one step away from cereal.

But these? These saved the day.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe (Even on a Monday)

• It’s fast. Like, on-the-table-in-under-30-minutes fast

• Minimal ingredients, max flavor — and no weird stuff

• That perfect grilled texture without standing outside with tongs

• Picky-eater approved (my kids call them “chicken candy,” and I’m okay with that)

• Works great for meal prep, busy weeknights, or even throwing on a salad

Here’s What You’ll Need

Just a few things, most of which you probably already have:

• 1 lb chicken tenderloins (or sliced chicken breast if that’s what’s in your freezer)

• ¼ cup Italian dressing – zesty, flavorful, and kind of magical in a marinade

• 1 tbsp honey – adds just the right kiss of sweetness

• 1 tbsp lime juice – for a little zip

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp onion powder

• ½ tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

Step-by-Step (Because We Don’t Have Time to Mess This Up)

1. Mix the marinade.
Grab a medium bowl and whisk together the Italian dressing, honey, lime juice, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. It’ll smell really good already.

2. Marinate the chicken.
Place the tenderloins in a zip-top bag or shallow dish and pour that lovely marinade over the top. Seal or cover, then stick it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes — or up to 4 hours if you’re thinking ahead.

3. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F.
You don’t have to be exact here, but let it warm up while you drain the chicken. You don’t need to pat them dry — a little leftover marinade helps them crisp up nicely.

4. Cook the chicken.
Lay the tenderloins in a single layer in the air fryer basket. If you have a small fryer, work in batches so they don’t overlap. Air fry for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and has a slight grilled look.

5. Rest & serve.
Let the chicken rest a few minutes before slicing into it — this keeps all those lovely juices where they belong. Then plate it up however you like!

How to Serve It (Because Options Are Everything)

This chicken is a chameleon — it goes with pretty much everything:

• Classic dinner: Mashed potatoes, green beans, and a warm roll

• Light & fresh: Toss on top of a big salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and a drizzle of ranch

• Southern comfort: Pair with coleslaw, baked beans, and cornbread

• Weeknight fast: Serve in a wrap or with a side of steamed broccoli and rice

Make It Your Own

• Want heat? Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne to the marinade

• More citrusy? Add a little lime zest and bump up the juice

• No Italian dressing? Try balsamic or lemon vinaigrette

• Feeding a crowd? Double the marinade and prep the night before

Leftovers That Don’t Feel Like Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have some leftover, slice ‘em cold for:

• Chicken wraps or sandwiches

• Pasta salads

• Quesadillas

• Or just snackin’ from the fridge (no shame in that game)

From My Table to Yours

This recipe isn’t fancy. But it’s real. It’s the kind of dinner that makes everyone happy, doesn’t stress you out, and tastes like something way more involved than it actually is.

So next time you’re staring at a pack of chicken with no clue what to do, give this one a try. It just might save your dinner the way it saved mine.

If you put your own spin on it, I’d love to hear. Or better yet — tag me when you make it! I always get a little thrill seeing these recipes living their best life in your kitchens.

Air Fryer Cracker Barrel Copycat Grilled Chicken Tenderloins

A delicious and easy air fryer version of the beloved Cracker Barrel grilled chicken tenderloins. Marinated in a tangy-sweet blend of Italian dressing, honey, and lime juice, these tenderloins cook up juicy with a perfectly charred exterior — all without the grill!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 50 minutes mins

Course Main

Cuisine American, Copycat

Servings 4

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x

• 1 pound chicken tenderloins
• 1/4 cup Italian dressing
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

 

• In a bowl, whisk together the Italian dressing, honey, lime juice, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
• Place the chicken tenderloins in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Seal or cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, up to 4 hours.
• Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
• Remove the chicken from the marinade and place the tenderloins in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
• Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and lightly charred.
• Remove from the air fryer and let rest for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

These tenderloins pair beautifully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or even a crisp garden salad. If you'd like a bit more caramelization, give them a quick brush of honey in the last minute of cooking. Leftovers are excellent in wraps or over salads!

Keyword Air Fryer, Copycat Recipe, Cracker Barrel, grilled chicken

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