Air Fryer Lime Chicken

These Air Fryer Lime Chicken tenders are juicy, flavorful, and super easy to make. The cilantro, garlic, and lime marinade infuse the chicken with a zesty, aromatic flavor that’s sure to please. Air-fried to crispy perfection, these tenders are a healthy, quick, and satisfying meal with minimal cleanup. Whether you’re looking for a light dinner or a protein-packed snack, this recipe is sure to become a favorite for busy weeknights or meal prep!

Ingredients

2 pounds chicken tenders
1 cup cilantro (stems and leaves)
5 garlic cloves (peeled)
1 ½ tsp sea salt
½ tsp black pepper
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1 tsp Greek seasoning
½ cup olive oil
Juice of 3 medium limes

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Marinade:

1. In a blender, combine the cilantro, garlic cloves, sea salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, Greek seasoning, olive oil, and lime juice.

2. Blend until smooth and well-mixed.

Marinate the Chicken:

1. Place the chicken tenders in a large bowl or resealable plastic bag.

2. Pour the marinade over the chicken tenders, making sure they are fully coated.

3. Let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Preheat and Air Fry:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C).

2. Place the marinated chicken tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket. You may need to cook them in batches if your air fryer isn’t large enough to fit all the tenders at once.

3. Air fry for 18-22 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and has a crispy exterior. The exact cooking time may vary depending on the size of the tenders and the air fryer model.

Serve:

1. Once cooked, remove the chicken tenders from the air fryer and let them rest for a couple of minutes.

2. Serve with your favorite side dishes or dipping sauces.

Storage:

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

• Freezer: Store in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, air fry at 350°F until warmed through.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 8 people.

• Prep time: 5 minutes

• Cook time: 30 minutes

• Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

1. Spicy Kick: Add some chopped jalapeños or a teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the marinade for an extra spicy flavor.

2. Herb Variations: Swap the cilantro for parsley or add a few sprigs of fresh thyme for a different herbal twist.

3. Lime-Zested Chicken: Add lime zest to the marinade for an extra citrus punch.

4. Marinade Time: Marinate the chicken for up to an hour if you have the time to let the flavors fully develop.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezing: You can freeze cooked chicken for up to 2 months. When ready to reheat, air fry at 350°F for a few minutes to bring back the crispiness.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but be sure to adjust the cooking time. Chicken breasts may need a few extra minutes to cook through, and it’s best to cut them into thinner strips for even cooking.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate the chicken overnight for an even more flavorful dish. Just be sure to let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before air frying.

Can I use a different oil instead of olive oil?

Yes, you can use any neutral oil like avocado oil or vegetable oil in place of olive oil.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is no longer pink in the center. A meat thermometer is a great tool to ensure it’s fully cooked.

Can I air fry these from frozen?

Yes, you can air fry frozen chicken tenders, but they will take a bit longer to cook. Increase the cooking time by 5-10 minutes and check for doneness with a meat thermometer.

Can I use a different seasoning mix?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap out the Italian and Greek seasoning for taco seasoning, fajita seasoning, or even a bit of smoked paprika for a different flavor profile.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Lime Chicken is a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that’s both healthy and delicious. The bright flavors from the cilantro, garlic, and lime make this chicken stand out, while the air fryer creates a crispy, golden crust without all the extra oil. Perfect for tacos, salads, or just a quick meal with your favorite sides, this recipe is sure to be a go-to for busy nights when you want something fast, fresh, and full of flavor!

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