Name: Cajun Air Fryer Turkey Tenderloins Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 turkey breast tenderloins, 1 lb each (pack of 2); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1/3 cup chicken broth; 1 1/2 tablespoons butter (use vegan butter for dairy-free); 1/4 cup honey or sugar-free syrup of choice; 1 tablespoon coconut aminos or Worcestershire sauce; 2 tablespoons brown sugar or brown monk fruit sweetener; OPTIONAL: 1/2 teaspoon xanthan gum (for thickening); 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

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 22 reviews

If you’ve been hunting for a simple yet show-stopping recipe that brings bold flavors and tender juiciness together, look no further than this amazing Cajun Air Fryer Turkey Tenderloins Recipe. With just a handful of everyday ingredients and the magic of the air fryer, you’ll get turkey breast tenderloins perfectly seasoned with a homemade Cajun spice blend, kissed by a sweet honey glaze that elevates every bite. It’s a delightful fusion of spice and sweetness that delivers a quick, wholesome meal perfect for weeknights or any time you crave something comforting and flavorful.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows six steps of cooking spicy roasted chicken. In the first frame, a white bowl holds separate piles of colorful spices including red, brown, yellow, white, and green. The second frame shows two chicken pieces covered fully in a reddish-brown spice mix, sitting on a white plate. The third frame captures a close-up of the chicken being placed with tongs inside an air fryer basket, dark in color with the fryer basket texture visible. The fourth frame shows a metal spoon holding golden sauce over a dark cooking pot filled with the same sauce. The fifth frame displays sliced chicken with a crusty reddish-brown spice crust laid over a wooden board. The last frame shows the sliced chicken served over mashed potatoes garnished with green herbs, a woman's hand pouring sauce on top. The background is a white marbled surface in all frames. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting the ingredients together for the Cajun Air Fryer Turkey Tenderloins Recipe is incredibly straightforward, and each one plays a crucial role in delivering the layers of flavor, texture, and color that make this dish remarkable. From spices to sweeteners, these simple components come together to create a restaurant-worthy meal right at home.

Turkey breast tenderloins: Two 1-pound tenderloins form the juicy, lean protein base of the dish.
Olive oil: Helps the seasoning stick while keeping the turkey moist and tender.
Chicken broth: Adds a subtle savory depth to the honey glaze, balancing the sweetness.
Butter: Provides richness and a silky texture to the glaze, can be swapped for vegan butter.
Honey or sugar-free syrup: Sweetens the glaze and complements the spicy Cajun flavors perfectly.
Coconut aminos or Worcestershire sauce: Gives an umami punch that rounds out the sweetness and spice.
Brown sugar or brown monk fruit sweetener: Offers caramel notes and helps thicken the glaze.
Optional xanthan gum: For thickening the glaze if you want a more luscious coating.
Cajun seasoning blend: A robust mix of paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper, onion powder, oregano, cayenne pepper, and thyme brings that iconic bold Cajun kick.

How to Make Cajun Air Fryer Turkey Tenderloins Recipe

Step 1: Prep and Season the Turkey

Begin by rinsing your turkey tenderloins and patting them dry to ensure the seasoning clings well. Combine all the spices for your Cajun seasoning in a small bowl — this blend is where the magic begins! Brush the tenderloins evenly with olive oil, then coat them generously in your spice mix, making sure every inch gets a nice layer of flavor. This step is essential for that mouthwatering crust once cooked.

Step 2: Air Fry the Tenderloins

Spray your air fryer basket lightly with avocado or olive oil to prevent sticking. Place the seasoned turkey tenderloins in the basket and set your air fryer to 400°F. Cook for about 20 to 25 minutes, flipping halfway through to evenly cook both sides. Keep an instant-read thermometer handy and ensure the turkey reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safe, perfectly juicy results.

Step 3: Make the Honey Glaze

While the turkey is cooking, whisk together butter, chicken broth, honey, brown sugar (or sweetener), and coconut aminos or Worcestershire sauce in a small saucepan over medium heat. Bring it to a gentle simmer and then turn to medium-low, allowing the sauce to reduce slowly for about 20 minutes until it thickens beautifully. If you desire a thicker glaze, stir in xanthan gum or cornstarch slurry—this glaze is what lends that irresistible glossy finish and sweet balance to the spicy tenderloins.

Step 4: Rest and Glaze

Once your turkey is cooked through, take it out of the air fryer and let it rest for 5 minutes. This resting period locks in all the juices, ensuring the meat stays succulent. Slice the tenderloins and drizzle generously with your luscious honey glaze, then finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a touch of color and freshness.

How to Serve Cajun Air Fryer Turkey Tenderloins Recipe

A white plate holds a layer of creamy mashed potatoes with a smooth, slightly textured surface, acting as the base. On top, there is a neat row of evenly sliced roasted chicken with a crispy, browned outer layer and tender light beige inside. Fresh green chopped parsley is sprinkled over the chicken, adding a bright contrast. A silver spoon held by a woman's hand is pouring a golden, clear broth over the chicken slices. The dish sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Simple garnishes like freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of green onions add a pop of color and a fresh herbal note that contrasts beautifully with the smoky Cajun spices and sweet glaze. For a bit more zing, a wedge of lemon or lime on the side brightens each bite wonderfully.

Side Dishes

This recipe pairs spectacularly with creamy mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables to soak up every drop of the honey glaze. For lighter options, a crisp green salad or steamed asparagus complements the dish perfectly, balancing the rich flavors with fresh, crisp textures.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve sliced tenderloins atop a bed of fluffy cauliflower rice or quinoa for a nutrient-packed bowl. Alternatively, slice and pile the turkey into warm tortillas with avocado slices and crunchy slaw for a fun and flavorful twist on dinner. The Cajun Air Fryer Turkey Tenderloins Recipe is versatile and delights in presentation that’s as inviting as the taste.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover turkey tenderloins should be cooled completely before being stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days and retain most of their tenderness and flavor, making them perfect for quick meals later in the week.

Freezing

If you’d like to keep the turkey longer, wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap and place in freezer-safe bags or containers. Frozen turkey tenderloins can be stored for up to 2 months without losing quality. Freeze the honey glaze separately in small containers for easy reheating.

Reheating

For the most succulent results when reheating, gently warm sliced turkey in a skillet with a splash of chicken broth or water to keep it moist. Reheat the honey glaze separately and drizzle over the turkey after warming to restore that fresh-out-of-the-air-fryer appeal.

FAQs

Can I use other cuts of turkey for this Cajun Air Fryer Turkey Tenderloins Recipe?

Absolutely! While tenderloins are ideal for quick cooking and tenderness, you can use turkey breasts or cutlets. Just adjust cooking times accordingly and always check for an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure safety.

Is this recipe spicy?

The spice level in this Cajun Air Fryer Turkey Tenderloins Recipe is moderate and can be easily adjusted. Simply reduce or omit the cayenne pepper if you prefer a milder dish without sacrificing flavor.

Can I make this recipe keto-friendly?

Yes, by swapping honey with a sugar-free syrup or monk fruit sweetener and choosing a keto-friendly sugar substitute in the glaze, this recipe fits beautifully into a keto lifestyle while keeping that signature Cajun flair.

What if I don’t have an air fryer?

No worries! You can bake the turkey tenderloins in a 400°F oven for about 30 to 35 minutes, flipping halfway through, as outlined in the recipe. The oven method also yields deliciously tender and flavorful results.

How do I know when the turkey is done?

An instant-read meat thermometer is your best friend here. The turkey is perfectly cooked when it reaches an internal temp of 165°F. This guarantees juicy, safe-to-eat turkey every time.

Final Thoughts

I can’t wait for you to try this Cajun Air Fryer Turkey Tenderloins Recipe because it truly transforms a simple protein into a flavor-packed delight with minimal fuss. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this recipe delivers a satisfying meal that’s as quick to make as it is delicious. Dive in and enjoy the bold spices, sweet glaze, and juicy turkey that comes together in one perfect bite!

Cajun Air Fryer Turkey Tenderloins Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need