Turkey tenderloin is an amazing option, whether you’re just making dinner on a normal night, or preparing for Thanksgiving for a smaller crowd and don’t want a whole bird! I get mine marinated from Aldi, and then make air fryer turkey tenderloin for a juicy, delicious meal!
What is a Turkey Tenderloin?
A turkey tenderloin is a boneless, skinless cut of meat that comes from the area near the turkey breast. Tenderloins are the most tender part of the turkey since they are located along the inner side of the breast, where the muscle is not used as much.
This cut is long, cylindrical, and lean, making it similar in shape and texture to a pork tenderloin. Turkey tenderloins are versatile and take on flavors well, which makes them ideal for marinades and seasonings.
While you can find them on their own, many grocery stores, including Aldi, offer them pre-marinated for convenience! Usually, you’ll find two to a package, making them perfect for a regular dinner, or Thanksgiving when you’re not hosting a huge group!
Tenderloins cook quickly and can be roasted, grilled, baked, or air fried, providing a moist and tender result when cooked properly. That’s why I love the air fryer – I get a juicy turkey every time, with little fuss required!
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Air Fryer Turkey Tenderloin Ingredients
- Marinated turkey tenderloin; any flavor (I have a 24-ounce package of rotisserie flavor from Aldi)
Ingredient Notes
- You can use any brand and flavor of marinated turkey tenderloin that you prefer! Mine is the Aldi Kirkwood label rotisserie-flavored marinated 2-pack
- If you get an unmarinated turkey tenderloin, you can season it with (about ½ tsp each or to taste) salt, pepper, and your favorite spices, such as garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, paprika, rosemary, sage, or a blend like Cajun seasoning or BBQ
How to Make Air Fryer Turkey Tenderloin
- Place the turkey tenderloin into your air fryer’s basket or rack. If you have multiple tenderloins, leave air space between them. If you aren’t using a marinated tenderloin, coat the tenderloin in about 1 Tbsp olive oil and your desired seasonings beforehand
- Cook on the air fry setting at 400°F for 10 minutes, then flip and cook an additional 5-15 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F. Times can vary between different air fryers and tenderloin sizes/thicknesses, so a thermometer is recommended to make sure. However the exterior should be browned and juices should run clear
- Rest for at least 10 minutes
- Slice and serve with your favorite sides!
What to Serve With Turkey Tenderloin
Mashed Potatoes or Sweet Potatoes
Mashed potatoes or a creamy sweet potato mash make a comforting, starchy side that complements the lean, tender turkey.
You can add herbs or garlic to the potatoes to bring out the flavors in your marinade or seasonings!
My Air Fryer Candied Yams and Air Fryer Sweet Potato Casserole are some classic Thanksgiving pairing options!
Roasted Vegetables
Roasted root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, and brussels sprouts add a bit of earthy flavor and color to the plate. A mix of squash, beets, or even green beans can also work beautifully with turkey tenderloin.
Try my Air Fryer Beets and Brussel Sprouts or honey roasted Air Fryer Beets and Carrots for some simple and delicious choices!
Green Salad with Citrus
A fresh green salad with a citrus vinaigrette or pomegranate seeds adds brightness and acidity that balance the mild flavor of turkey.
Arugula, mixed greens, or spinach with nuts and fruit make a light and refreshing side!
Stuffing or Wild Rice
Classic Thanksgiving-style stuffing or wild rice pilaf adds a hearty, savory component to the meal. Both can be made with herbs and vegetables to bring out the herby or seasonal flavors that the turkey is seasoned with.
Try my Air Fryer Cornbread Dressing for a classic turkey side!
Cranberry Sauce
A sweet-tart cranberry sauce complements most herbs or spices used on the turkey tenderloin, and is a great pairing option.
For a twist on the classic sauce, try my Chocolate Covered Cranberry Sauce (or make it with the leftovers the next day)!
Recipe FAQs
How Long Should I Cook Turkey Tenderloin In The Air Fryer?
Air fryer turkey tenderloin generally takes about 20-25 minutes at 400°F. However, this can vary based on the tenderloin’s thickness and the air fryer model.
To ensure it’s safely cooked, use a meat thermometer and check that the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F.
Can I Cook Frozen Turkey Tenderloin In The Air Fryer?
Yes, you can cook frozen turkey tenderloin in the air fryer, but it’s best to thaw it first for even cooking. Simply place it in the refrigerator overnight to thaw.
If cooking directly from frozen, expect to increase the cooking time by 5-10 minutes, and monitor it closely to reach 165°F throughout.
What Are Good Seasonings For Air Fryer Turkey Tenderloin?
Turkey tenderloin pairs well with many seasonings, like garlic powder, paprika, rosemary, thyme, and sage.
You can also try Cajun or BBQ seasoning blends for more bolder flavors.
Can I Cook Multiple Turkey Tenderloins At The Same Time?
You can cook multiple tenderloins as long as they fit in a single layer with space around each one.
This allows for proper air circulation and even cooking. If necessary, cook in batches to prevent overcrowding.
Can I Marinate Turkey Tenderloin Before Air Frying?
Yes, marinating turkey tenderloin can boost its flavor and tenderness. Marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 24 hours, in the refrigerator. Just be sure to pat it dry before air frying to get a crispier exterior.
Alternatively, purchase a pre-marinated tenderloin from the grocery store for convenience.
What Sauces Pair Well With Turkey Tenderloin?
Popular sauce pairings include cranberry sauce, honey mustard, chimichurri, and tzatziki.
Depending on the occasion you plan to serve your turkey tenderloin for, it can be adapted to compliment a variety of different side dishes and seasons.
Recipe Pro Tips For the Best Turkey Tenderloin
- I do not preheat my air fryer since I flip the tenderloins during cooking. My Ninja Dual Zone had them to temperature in about 23 minutes total. Times will vary based on the size of your tenderloins and between air fryers, so adjust as needed for your specific situation
- Thickness of the tenderloins makes the biggest difference in cooking time. If yours are less than 1” thick, start with 15 minutes total. If they’re 2” or more, assume it will take at least 20!
Turkey Tenderloin Storage and Reheating Tips
- Store leftover turkey tenderloin in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days
- To reheat your turkey in the air fryer, use a lower temperature of 350°F for 3-4 minutes (depending on the size of the pieces) until warmed through. Try not to overcook, as that will dry the turkey out
More Turkey Recipes
Final Thoughts
I love making air fryer turkey tenderloin because it’s quick enough for a weeknight, but elegant enough for the Thanksgiving or Christmas table too! It comes out perfectly browned, with a juicy interior, and all you have to do is flip it once!
Starting with a pre-marinated tenderloin saves time as well, but you can always season and/or brine your own if you prefer. I love the Aldi tenderloins, though, as they’re always tasty and convenient.
Turkey tenderloin is the perfect option if you’re feeding a smaller group for Thanksgiving and don’t want to cook a whole bird! With sides, my 24-ounce package would be perfect for 2-4 people.
If you need more great dishes for the holiday table, check out all of my Air Fryer Thanksgiving Recipes for inspiration!
Air Fryer Turkey Tenderloin (Marinated)
Equipment
Ingredients
- Marinated turkey tenderloin, any flavor (As pictured: 24-ounce package of Kirkwood rotisserie flavor from Aldi)
Instructions
- Place the turkey tenderloin into your air fryer’s basket or rack. If you have multiple tenderloins, leave air space between them. If you aren’t using a marinated tenderloin, coat the tenderloin in about 1 Tbsp olive oil and your desired seasonings beforehandMarinated turkey tenderloin, any flavor
- Cook on the air fry setting at 400°F for 10 minutes, then flip and cook an additional 5-15 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F. Times can vary between different air fryers and tenderloin sizes/thicknesses, so a thermometer is recommended to make sure. However the exterior should be browned and juices should run clear
- Rest for at least 10 minutes
- Slice and serve with your favorite sides!
Notes
- You can use any brand and flavor of marinated turkey tenderloin that you prefer!
- If you get an unmarinated turkey tenderloin, you can season it with 1 Tbsp olive oil and (about ½ tsp each or to taste) salt, pepper, and your favorite spices, such as garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, paprika, rosemary, sage, or a blend like Cajun seasoning or BBQ
- I do not preheat my air fryer since I flip the tenderloins during cooking. My Ninja Dual Zone had them to temperature in about 23 minutes total. Times will vary based on the size of your tenderloins and between air fryers, so adjust as needed for your specific situation
- Thickness of the tenderloins makes the biggest difference in cooking time. If yours are less than 1” thick, start with 15 minutes total. If they’re larger, assume it will take at least 20!
- Exact nutritional values will vary based on brand and flavor of ingredients, any sauces, seasonings, or sides added, and actual quantity consumed, so please consider this a guideline only
Nutrition
