Air fryer turkey tenderloin

Delicious juicy turkey breast tenderloin in you air fryer in less then 30 minutes! Thanksgiving is right around the corner, and if you don’t make a dinner for a huge group, try this air fryer turkey breast tenderloin recipe!

For Weight watchers: myWW green plan 2 points,myWW blue plan 0 points,myWW purple plan 0 points per serving (all calculations are done by adding ingredients to Weight watchers app calculator)

Hey foodies! With the holidays just around the corner, many of us are starting to dream about that iconic Thanksgiving meal. But, let’s be honest, sometimes the idea of roasting an entire turkey feels a bit… overwhelming, right? That’s where our upcoming post on Air Fryer Turkey Tenderloin comes to the rescue!

Imagine the juiciness of a well-cooked turkey, but without the hours of oven-watching. This Air Fryer Turkey Tenderloin is not only quick to whip up, but it’s also flavorful and perfect for smaller gatherings or as an extra protein dish for the big feast.

In our next post, we’ll break down the recipe in simple terms so anyone can tackle it! Plus, we’ll share some tips on pairing it with classic side dishes. Whether you’re a Thanksgiving traditionalist or just looking for an easy and delicious meal, this recipe will not disappoint.

How to make turkey tenderloin air fryer recipe

Start by patting the turkey tenderloin dry with a paper towel. This helps the seasoning mix to stick better. In a small bowl, combine thyme, black pepper, paprika, pink salt, and sage. Mix them well with a spoon until you have a uniform spice blend.

With your hands, spread and gently press the seasoning mix all over the turkey tenderloin. Make sure to cover both sides and any crevices so that every bite will be flavorful. Before you start, give the air fryer basket a quick spray with your choice of cooking oil to keep the turkey from sticking.

Now, let’s cook! Set your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Once it’s at the right temperature, place the seasoned turkey tenderloin in the basket. Let it cook for about 12-13 minutes. After the first 12-13 minutes, open the air fryer basket and carefully flip the turkey tenderloin using a pair of tongs. This will help it cook evenly on both sides.

Close the air fryer and let the turkey finish cooking for another 12-13 minutes. After the total cooking time of around 25 minutes, the outside should be a nice golden brown. If you have a meat thermometer, you can check that the internal temperature has reached at least 165°F (74°C). If not, you can cut a small slice to check if it’s fully cooked.

Once done, take out the turkey tenderloin and place it on a cutting board. Let it sit for a few minutes so the juices settle, then slice and enjoy! Remember, every air fryer can be a bit different, so keep an eye on your turkey the first time you make it to get the best results. Enjoy your meal!

Recipe ingredients

If you like to add glaze or use a marinade- please do! This recipe doesn’t require any of that, but feel free to adjust it to your taste. Here is a list of ingredients i used in his recipe:

• Turkey Breast Tenderloin (1 piece): This is the star of the dish. Tenderloins are the lean cut from the breast and cook relatively quickly.
• Thyme (1/2 teaspoon): An aromatic herb that adds a touch of earthy and slightly minty flavor.
• Black Pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Ground black pepper lends a spicy kick to the dish.
• Paprika (1/2 teaspoon): This spice offers a smoky and slightly sweet flavor, enhancing the color of the turkey.
• Pink Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Not just for color, pink salt offers a gentle saltiness with a hint of mineral flavor.
• Sage (1/2 teaspoon): An herb that provides a peppery and slightly bitter taste, pairing well with poultry dishes.

Side dishes

Turkey breast tenderloin in air fryer is a lean, flavorful protein that pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Here are some side dish suggestions to complement your turkey breast tenderloin:

1. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and rich, they are always a classic choice. Add some roasted garlic or chives for an extra touch of flavor.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Choose seasonal vegetables, toss them in olive oil, salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs, then roast until tender. Think carrots, Brussels sprouts, sweet potatoes, or parsnips.
3. Cranberry Sauce: A slightly tangy and sweet sauce can offset the savoriness of the turkey. Consider adding some orange zest for an additional layer of flavor.
4. Stuffing or Dressing: Even if you’re not stuffing the turkey, a side of classic bread stuffing or a wild rice dressing can be delightful.
5. Gravy: A light herb or lemon gravy can complement the turkey’s flavors without overpowering them.
6. Sweet Potato Casserole: With a topping of toasted marshmallows or pecan crumble, this can add a touch of sweetness to your meal.

Frequently asked questions

Expert tips and notes

1. Prepping the Tenderloin: Before seasoning, always pat the turkey dry with paper towels. This ensures the spices stick better and gives you a crisper finish.
2. Seasoning: For deeper flavor, let the seasoned turkey tenderloin marinate for at least 30 minutes or overnight in the fridge. The longer it sits, the more the flavors penetrate the meat.
3. Air Fryer Preheating: Even if your air fryer doesn’t require preheating, doing so for 2-3 minutes can help achieve a consistent cooking temperature from the start.
4. No Overcrowding: If cooking multiple tenderloins, avoid crowding the air fryer basket. Overlapping can lead to uneven cooking. If necessary, cook in batches.
5. Checking for Doneness: Invest in a meat thermometer. The internal temperature of the turkey should reach 165°F. This ensures your turkey is cooked through, juicy, and safe to eat.
6. Resting is Key: After cooking, let the turkey tenderloin rest for a few minutes before slicing. This lets the juices redistribute, giving you a moister slice.
7. Leftovers: Turkey tenderloin tastes great the next day! Slice it thin for sandwiches or dice it up for a salad topping.

Storage instructions

Storing air fryer turkey tenderloin properly can help maintain its taste and texture while ensuring it stays fresh. Here’s how you can store your leftovers:

1. Cooling: Before storing, let the turkey tenderloin come to room temperature. This helps prevent the growth of harmful bacteria and avoids condensation build-up, which can make the meat soggy.
2. Wrap or Container: Wrap the turkey tenderloin tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap. Alternatively, you can place it in an airtight container. This helps to keep out air, which can dry out the meat or introduce contaminants.
3. Refrigeration: Place the wrapped or contained turkey tenderloin in the refrigerator. Consumed within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
4. Freezing: If you plan to store the turkey tenderloin for a longer period, consider freezing it. First wrap it in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it in a freezer-safe bag, squeezing out as much air as possible before sealing. Properly stored, it should be good for 2-3 months. Label the bag with the date so you can keep track of storage time.
5. Reheating: When you’re ready to eat the stored turkey tenderloin, reheat it in the oven or air fryer to retain its crispy texture. If frozen, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

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Full list of my air fryer recipes has over 50 recipes! Check it out, i have all kind of recipes of everyone.

Hope you will like this turkey tenderloin air fryer recipe as much as we do. Please rate the recipe if you made it and leave a comment below if you have any questions or suggestions.