Air fryer cooking guide
Air Fryer Turkey Tenderloin
Turkey tenderloin cooks in the air fryer at 200°C for about 22–30 minutes. Cook until the thickest part reaches 74°C, then rest before slicing.
200°C / 392°F
22–30 minutes
74°C / 165°F
How long to cook turkey tenderloin in an air fryer?
Cook turkey tenderloin in an air fryer at 200°C / 400°F for 22–30 minutes, flipping halfway, until the thickest part reaches 74°C / 165°F. A small 340 g tenderloin usually takes 20–25 minutes; a 680 g two-pack usually takes 25–30 minutes.
Air fryer turkey tenderloin is a quick way to cook a lean boneless turkey cut without roasting a whole breast. Use 200°C as the default temperature, flip once, and confirm doneness with a thermometer in the thickest part.
Cook-time calculator
Enter the weight of your turkey tenderloin for an estimated air fryer time.
Estimated time
20–22min
Rule of thumb: about 4 min per 100 g at 200°C, cooked to 74°C internal. Estimate only — check doneness before serving.
Time & temperature chart
| Size / cut | Temp | Time | Tip |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 small turkey tenderloin, about 340 g | 200°C | 20–25 min | Flip halfway; check 74°C in the thickest part. |
| 2 turkey tenderloins, about 680 g total | 200°C | 25–30 min | Arrange in a single layer with space between pieces. |
| Pre-seasoned or marinated turkey tenderloin | 200°C | 22–30 min | Start checking early if the pieces are thin or sugary marinI |
| Gentler lower-temperature option, about 680 g total | 175°C | 25–35 min | Use if the outside browns too fast; cook to 74°C. |
Times are a guide — air fryers vary by 10–20%. Always cook to the safe internal temperature, not just the timer.
How to air fry turkey tenderloin
- 1
Preheat the air fryer to 200°C for 3–5 minutes if your model recommends preheating.
- 2
Remove the turkey tenderloin from its packaging and pat it dry. If it is in a marinade, let excess marinade drip off so it does not scorch in the basket.
- 3
Place the turkey tenderloin in the air-fryer basket in a single layer. Leave space around each piece so hot air can circulate.
- 4
Air fry at 200°C, flipping halfway through the cooking time. Use the table as a guide for the size you have.
- 5
Check the thickest part with a food thermometer. Turkey tenderloin is done when it reaches 74°C; do not rely on color alone.
- 6
Rest for 5 minutes before slicing so the juices settle and the final texture stays moist.
Pro tips
- If the tenderloin is very thick in one end, tuck the thin end under slightly or check both ends separately so the thinner side does not overcook.
- Do not stack two tenderloins. If they overlap, the cooking time becomes uneven and the center may lag behind.
- For best browning, cook at 200°C rather than a lower temperature unless the outside is getting too dark.
- A short rest matters for turkey tenderloin because it is a lean cut and can dry out if sliced immediately.
- If cooking a vacuum-packed or pre-marinated tenderloin, remove any gravy packet or absorbent pad before air frying.
Frequently asked questions
How long do you cook turkey tenderloin in the air fryer?
Most turkey tenderloins take 22–30 minutes at 200°C / 400°F. A single 340 g tenderloin usually takes 20–25 minutes, while two tenderloins totaling about 680 g usually take 25–30 minutes.
What temperature should turkey tenderloin be in the air fryer?
Cook turkey tenderloin at 200°C / 400°F for the quickest, most even air-fryer result. The safe internal temperature is 74°C / 165°F in the thickest part.
Do you flip turkey tenderloin in the air fryer?
Yes. Flip turkey tenderloin halfway through cooking so both sides brown evenly and the thicker areas cook more consistently.
Can I cook a marinated turkey tenderloin in the air fryer?
Yes. Let excess marinade drip off first, then air fry at 200°C / 400°F for about 22–30 minutes, depending on thickness, until it reaches 74°C / 165°F internally.
Why is my turkey tenderloin still pink after air frying?
A slight pink color can remain in cooked turkey. Use a food thermometer instead of color; the turkey is safe when the thickest part reaches 74°C / 165°F.
Turkey tenderloin recipes to try
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ChickenCrispy Air Fryer Sesame Chicken Bites
Crisp chicken bites tossed in a glossy sesame-soy honey glaze with garlic and ginger. A weeknight fakeaway that stays crunchy when sauced last.
ChickenSticky Air Fryer Korean Chicken Wings
Crispy air-fried wings tossed in a glossy gochujang, honey, garlic and ginger glaze. Sweet, spicy and sticky without deep-frying.
ChickenSticky Air Fryer Honey Mustard Chicken Thighs
Juicy boneless chicken thighs get a tangy Dijon-honey glaze that caramelises fast in the air fryer for an easy weeknight dinner.