Description
This Cajun Air Fryer Turkey Tenderloins recipe offers a perfectly seasoned, juicy turkey tenderloin cooked quickly in an air fryer with a flavorful honey glaze. The blend of Cajun spices adds a spicy, smoky depth, while the homemade honey glaze provides a sweet, tangy finish. Ideal for a healthy dinner, this recipe can also be baked in the oven for convenience and still deliver tender, delicious results.
Ingredients
Scale
Turkey and Seasoning
- 2 Turkey breast tenderloins (1 lb each, pack of 2)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Cajun Seasoning
- 1 1/2 tablespoons paprika
- 1 1/2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (use 1/4 teaspoon for less spice)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
Honey Glaze
- 1/3 cup chicken broth
- 1 1/2 tablespoons butter (can use vegan butter for dairy-free)
- 1/4 cup honey or sugar-free syrup of choice
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar or brown monk fruit sweetener
- 1 tablespoon coconut aminos or Worcestershire sauce
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon xanthan gum for thickening (substitute: 2 tablespoons cornstarch or 1 tablespoon arrowroot flour dissolved in 1 tablespoon water)
Instructions
- Prepare the Turkey: Rinse the turkey breast tenderloins under cold water and pat them dry thoroughly using paper towels to ensure the seasoning adheres well.
- Mix the Cajun Seasoning: In a small bowl, combine paprika, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, onion powder, oregano, cayenne pepper, and dried thyme.
- Season the Turkey: Brush olive oil over all sides of the turkey tenderloins. Generously coat the meat with the Cajun seasoning mixture, pressing it in for maximum flavor.
- Preheat and Prepare Air Fryer: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with avocado or olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Air Fry the Turkey: Place the seasoned turkey tenderloins in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, flipping the tenderloins halfway through the cooking time for even browning.
- Check Internal Temperature: Use an instant-read meat thermometer to check the turkey’s internal temperature. It should reach 165°F, ensuring the turkey is fully cooked and safe to eat.
- Make the Honey Glaze: While the turkey cooks, combine butter, chicken broth, honey, brown sugar or brown monk fruit sweetener, and coconut aminos or Worcestershire sauce in a small saucepan over medium-high heat.
- Simmer the Glaze: Stir the sauce regularly as it comes to a simmer. Reduce heat to medium-low and let the mixture simmer gently until it thickens and reduces, about 20 minutes. To thicken further, stir in 2 teaspoons of cornstarch dissolved in 1 tablespoon of water if desired.
- Rest the Turkey: Once cooked, remove the turkey tenderloins from the air fryer and let them rest on a cutting board for 5 minutes to retain juices.
- Serve: Slice the turkey tenderloins and drizzle generously with the honey glaze. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
- Optional Oven Method: Preheat oven to 400°F. Prepare a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Season turkey as directed, place on the baking sheet, and bake for 15 minutes. Flip and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165°F. Prepare the honey glaze as above. Let turkey rest 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
- Serving Suggestions: Pairs wonderfully with Southern Green Beans, Broccoli Salad, or Cheesy Garlic Herb Biscuits for a complete meal.
- Thickening Substitutions: If you prefer not to use xanthan gum, substitute with 2 tablespoons of cornstarch or 1 tablespoon of arrowroot flour dissolved in 1 tablespoon of water to thicken the glaze.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tenderloin (approx. 8 oz cooked)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
