Chicken tenderloins typically take about 7 to 12 minutes to cook in an air fryer, depending on their thickness and size. Common guidance is to air fry them at around 375-400°F (190-200°C), flipping halfway through the cook time. For example, many recipes suggest cooking for 7-9 minutes flipping once around halfway, while others mention 10-12 minutes for larger or thicker tenderloins. The key is to ensure the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
Here are some specifics from different sources:
- 7-8 minutes at 375°F, flipping halfway, for average-sized tenderloins.
- 7-9 minutes at 400°F, flipping halfway.
- 10-12 minutes at ~390°F, flipping after 6 minutes for thicker pieces.
- For breaded tenderloins, cooking may take around 12 minutes at 350°F.
In all cases, checking the internal temperature with a meat thermometer (165°F) is the best way to determine doneness. Letting the chicken rest for a few minutes after air frying is recommended to allow juices to settle.
So, the general rule is air frying chicken tenderloins for approximately 7 to 12 minutes at 375-400°F, flipping halfway , adjusted based on thickness and ensuring safe internal temperature.
