How Long to Air Fry Tenderloins: A Guide to Juicy, Crispy Perfection
Air frying tenderloins offers a fantastic way to achieve that crispy exterior and juicy interior we all crave, without the excess oil of deep frying. But the key to success lies in knowing precisely how long to cook them. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to perfectly air fry pork tenderloins, chicken tenderloins, and even beef tenderloins.
Factors Affecting Air Fryer Tenderloin Cooking Time
Several factors influence the cooking time for your tenderloins:
- Thickness: Thicker tenderloins require longer cooking times than thinner ones. Always check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer for accuracy.
- Type of Meat: Pork, chicken, and beef tenderloins all cook at different rates. Chicken tends to cook faster than pork, while beef requires the most careful attention.
- Air Fryer Model: Different air fryers have varying heating elements and air circulation, leading to slight differences in cooking times.
- Desired Doneness: Do you prefer your tenderloin medium-rare, medium, or well-done? This significantly impacts cooking time.
Air Frying Pork Tenderloin: Timing and Temperature
Pork tenderloin is a lean cut that can dry out easily if overcooked. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Prep: Pat the tenderloin dry with paper towels and season generously with your favorite spices. Consider a simple salt and pepper rub, or experiment with garlic powder, paprika, or even a dry Cajun seasoning.
- Cooking Time: For a 1-pound pork tenderloin, expect to air fry at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through. Larger tenderloins will require additional time – around 20-25 minutes for a 1.5-pound tenderloin. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 145°F.
- Resting: Allow the pork tenderloin to rest for 5-10 minutes after cooking before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful final product.
Air Frying Chicken Tenderloin: Timing and Temperature
Chicken tenderloins are quick-cooking and incredibly versatile. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Prep: Similar to pork, pat the chicken dry and season well. Consider using a marinade for extra flavor.
- Cooking Time: For 1-inch thick chicken tenderloins, air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 8-12 minutes, flipping halfway through. Thicker tenderloins might require up to 15 minutes. Again, a meat thermometer is your best friend here.
- Resting: A short rest of 2-3 minutes is usually sufficient for chicken tenderloins.
Air Frying Beef Tenderloin: Timing and Temperature
Beef tenderloin, being a more delicate cut, requires careful attention to avoid overcooking. Aim for your desired doneness – remember that the internal temperature will continue to rise slightly after removing it from the air fryer.
- Prep: Season generously with salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings. Consider a quick sear in a pan before air frying for extra flavor and browning.
- Cooking Time: Cooking times for beef tenderloin are highly dependent on desired doneness and thickness. For a medium-rare (130-135°F / 54-57°C) 1-inch thick piece, expect approximately 8-10 minutes at 375°F (190°C). Use a meat thermometer to monitor the temperature closely, as it can cook quickly. Remember to let it rest for at least 10 minutes after cooking.
Tips for Air Frying Perfect Tenderloins Every Time:
- Don't overcrowd the air fryer basket: Overcrowding restricts air circulation, leading to uneven cooking. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Shake or flip halfway through: This ensures even browning and cooking on all sides.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the most accurate way to ensure your tenderloin is cooked to perfection. Don't rely solely on timing.
- Rest your meat: Allowing the meat to rest before slicing helps retain its juices and results in a more tender and flavorful final product.
By following these guidelines and paying close attention to your air fryer and the meat's internal temperature, you'll consistently achieve perfectly cooked, juicy, and crispy tenderloins every time. Enjoy!
