Here’s a simple Air Fryer Cracker Barrel-Style Chicken Tenderloins recipe — crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, without deep frying.
🥘 Ingredients (serves 2–4)
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1 lb (450 g) chicken tenderloins
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½ cup all-purpose flour
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1 tsp paprika
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½ tsp garlic powder
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½ tsp onion powder
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½ tsp salt
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¼ tsp black pepper
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1 large egg
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2 tbsp milk
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1 cup panko breadcrumbs (or regular)
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Cooking spray or olive oil spray
🔥 Instructions
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Prep Chicken
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Pat chicken tenderloins dry.
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Prepare Breading
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Flour mixture: Combine flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
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Egg wash: Beat egg with milk in a bowl.
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Breadcrumbs: Place panko in a separate bowl.
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Coat Chicken
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Dredge each tenderloin in flour, shaking off excess.
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Dip in egg wash.
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Coat with panko breadcrumbs, pressing lightly to adhere.
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Air Fry
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Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3–5 minutes.
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Spray chicken lightly with cooking spray.
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Place tenderloins in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
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Cook 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
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Serve
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Serve with dipping sauces like honey mustard, ranch, or BBQ.
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