Juicy, tender, and perfectly seasoned air fryer turkey tenderloin can be an easy weeknight meal or small Thanksgiving dinner idea. Using a handful of simple ingredients, cook turkey tenderloins in the air fryer in under 30 minutes with our foolproof recipe.
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I love the convenience of cooking air fryer recipes for Thanksgiving because they don't take up oven space and can usually be cooked in a fraction of the time. Cozy fall meals, like this easy air fryer turkey tenderloin recipe, help take the stress out of the holiday season.
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About Air Fryer Turkey Tenderloin
Whether you eat turkey all year or are having a small holiday meal, this is one of my favorite air fryer turkey recipes. My husband and I often cook Thanksgiving dinner for two, so this easy turkey tenderloin recipe saves us time and money from cooking and purchasing a whole turkey.
What is a turkey tenderloin? A turkey tenderloin is a boneless, skinless cut of meat that comes from the breast of the turkey. It is a lean protein and a flavorful cut, known for its tenderness and versatility in cooking. This cut of meat is also described as turkey breast fillets. You can find turkey tenderloins in the meat section of most grocery stores, close to the pork tenderloins, and it usually comes in a pack of two.
I created this recipe for beginner home cooks hosting small holiday gatherings, but discovered it's a delicious meal for busy weeknights as well. If you're tried of cooking chicken breast night after night, try my turkey tenderloin air fryer recipe for an easy dinner tonight!
Try my air fryer thin pork chops for another quick and easy dinner.
Ingredients
- Turkey tenderloin: For this air fryer recipe, I use a pack of Honeysuckle white turkey breast tenderloins. I get two tenderloins per pack, equaling about 1.5 pounds. This amount will serve 4 people.
- Olive oil: This adds moisture to the turkey tenderloin, preventing it from drying out during cooking in the air fryer. It also helps the seasoning blend adhere to the meat
- Seasoning blend: Garlic powder and onion powder provide savory notes, paprika adds a subtle sweetness and mild heat, while thyme and rosemary contribute aromatic and earthy flavors. Together, along with salt and black pepper, they create a well-balanced seasoning that elevates the taste of the dish.
Variations for Air Fryer Turkey Tenderloins
Switch up the seasonings: Instead of using the seasoning mixture provided in the recipe card, season turkey tenderloins with our homemade Cajun seasoning for a kick of heat. I also like to use premade poultry seasoning or Italian seasoning for a simple preparation.
Herb-crusted: When I'm craving a crunch, I make this air fryer turkey recipe by combining breadcrumbs with chopped fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, and rosemary. Then I coat turkey tenderloins in egg wash and the herb-breadcrumb mixture before air frying for a crispy and flavorful crust.
Honey mustard glazed: Brush turkey tenderloins with a mixture of honey, Dijon mustard, and a splash of apple cider vinegar before air frying for a sweet and tangy flavor profile.
Serve with a sauce: Serve the air fryer turkey breast tenderloin with your favorite sauce or gravy for added flavor and moisture. Honey mustard, cranberry sauce, or gravy are all excellent choices.
How to Cook Turkey Tenderloin in Air Fryer
I will walk you through how to cook a turkey tenderloin in a few simple steps. This mouthwatering dish comes together quickly with minimal effort.
Step 1: Using paper towels, pat dry the tenderloins then brush them with olive oil.
Step 2: Combine seasonings in a small bowl and sprinkle over the meat. Make sure to season both sides of the turkey tenderloins.
Step 3: Preheat the air fryer and spray with olive oil spray or nonstick cooking spray. Place seasoned turkey tenderloin in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
Step 4: Air fry turkey, flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F using a meat thermometer. Rest on a cutting board for 5-10 minutes before slicing into turkey medallions.
Serving Suggestions
Make it a delicious turkey dinner and wash it all down with a glass of Thanksgiving sangria! Some of my favorite holiday sides to serve with air fryer turkey breast tenderloin are:
Expert Tips
Avoid overcrowding: Arrange the turkey tenderloins in a single layer in the air fryer basket. This allows for proper air circulation and even cooking. I cook in batches, when I'm cooking more than two tenderloins.
Cook time may vary: Depending on the size of your tenderloins, the cooking time will vary between 20-25 minutes. Try to choose turkey tenderloins that are uniform in thickness. If needed, pound thicker parts gently to ensure even cooking. When making this recipe, my turkey usually takes 22 minutes to fully cook.
Flip halfway through: Flip the turkey tenderloins halfway through cooking to ensure even browning on both sides.
Rest before slicing: For best results, allow the turkey tenderloins to rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps redistribute the juices and ensures they remain juicy when sliced.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in aluminum foil. Refrigerate them within two hours of cooking to prevent bacterial growth. Turkey tenderloins are best consumed within 3-4 days when properly stored in the refrigerator.
If you don't plan to consume the leftovers within a few days, consider freezing them. Place the cooled turkey tenderloins in a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. When ready to enjoy the frozen turkey tenderloins, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator.
Reheat leftover turkey tenderloin in the microwave or air fryer at 350°F for 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through, until heated through.
Quick & Easy Air Fryer Recipes
If you try this recipe or any recipe from Happy Honey Kitchen, please rate the recipe and leave a comment below! Enjoy!
Air Fryer Turkey Tenderloin
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Ingredients
- 1 ½ lbs. turkey breast tenderloin
- 1 Tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon thyme
- ½ teaspoon rosemary
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat air fryer to 350℉. Pat dry the tenderloins using paper towels then brush them with olive oil.
- In a small bowl, combine seasonings. Sprinkle seasoning mixture over all sides of the meat.
- Spray air fryer basket with a nonstick cooking spray. Place seasoned turkey tenderloins in a single layer in the basket.
- Air fry turkey tenderloins at 350℉, flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. About 20-25 minutes.
- Rest on a cutting board for 5 minutes before slicing.
Notes
- Depending on the size of your tenderloins, the cooking time will vary. When making this recipe, my turkey usually takes 22 minutes to fully cook.
- To ensure even browning on both sides, flip the turkey tenderloins halfway through cooking.
- Serve with your favorite sauce or gravy. Honey mustard, cranberry sauce, or gravy are all great options.
Dan from Platter Talk
I love using our air fryer and this is one recipe that stands out above the rest. For two people, it's absolutely perfect. And so delicious!