Description
This Cajun Air Fryer Turkey Tenderloins recipe delivers juicy, tender turkey breasts coated in a flavorful homemade Cajun seasoning and finished with a sweet honey glaze. Ready in about 30 minutes, it’s a simple, gluten-free, paleo, and dairy-free meal option that’s also customizable for keto diets. Perfect for a quick and delicious turkey dinner with minimal effort.
Ingredients
Turkey Tenderloins
- 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)
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
Instructions
- Prepare the Turkey: Rinse and pat the turkey breast tenderloins dry thoroughly with paper towels to ensure the seasoning adheres well.
- Mix Seasoning: Combine all Cajun seasoning ingredients in a small bowl. Brush olive oil evenly on all sides of the turkey tenderloins, then rub the seasoning mix generously over the entire surface.
- Air Fry the Turkey: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with avocado or olive oil. Place the seasoned turkey tenderloins in the basket and air fry at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, flipping once halfway through to ensure even cooking.
- Check Temperature: Use an instant-read meat thermometer to verify the turkey is done; it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Make the Honey Glaze: While the turkey cooks, combine butter, chicken broth, honey, brown sugar (or monk fruit sweetener), and coconut aminos (or Worcestershire sauce) in a small pot over medium-high heat. Stir frequently as it comes to a simmer.
- Simmer Glaze: Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer the glaze gently for about 20 minutes until reduced and thickened. If thicker consistency is desired, stir in 2 teaspoons cornstarch dissolved in 1 tablespoon water and cook for an additional minute.
- Rest and Serve: Remove turkey from the air fryer and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Drizzle the sliced turkey with the honey glaze and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- For less spice, reduce cayenne pepper to 1/4 teaspoon.
- Vegan butter can be used to keep the recipe dairy-free.
- Use sugar substitutes like monk fruit sweetener and sugar-free syrup to make this recipe keto-friendly.
- Ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F for safe consumption.
- Resting the meat after cooking helps retain juiciness.
- Optional xanthan gum can be added to the glaze for extra thickness.
- This recipe can also be baked in the oven at 400°F following the provided instructions.
