10 Easy Chicken Tenderloin Recipes for Dinner Tonight

As a busy parent, finding a quick and tasty meal can be tough. That’s why I’m excited to share 10 amazing chicken tenderloin recipes. They’re easy to make and full of flavor. These cuts cook fast, making them great for weeknights.

Chicken tenderloins are a kitchen gem. They’re affordable, tender, and versatile. With simple ingredients and basic cooking, you can make many tasty dishes. From breaded tenders to citrus-glazed, there’s something for everyone.

Here, you’ll learn how to make tender, juicy chicken tenderloins. Your family will love them. We have grilled, baked, and stir-fried options. Follow our easy steps and impress your loved ones with these delicious dishes.

What Are Chicken Tenderloins?

Chicken tenderloins, also known as chicken tenders, are the small, tender strips of meat found under the chicken breast. They are known for being lean and juicy. This makes them very tender and versatile in cooking.

Understanding the Cut

Chicken tenderloins are a special part of the chicken, different from the breast. They are located under the breast and are connected to the rib cage. These tenders are about 2 ounces in size and cook faster than the larger chicken breast.

Nutritional Benefits

• Chicken tenderloins are full of protein, with 25 grams per serving.
• They have very little fat, with just 15 grams per serving, making them a lean protein.
• Chicken tenderloins are also low in calories, with only about 256 calories per serving.

Cooking Versatility

The small size and tender texture of chicken tenderloins allow for many cooking methods. They can be oven-baked, grilled, sautéed, or even air-fried. This makes them perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. They cook quickly, often under 30 minutes, which is great for quick meals.

“Chicken tenderloins are a great way to enjoy the juicy, tender texture of chicken without the hassle of dealing with a large breast.”

Classic Breaded Chicken Tenderloins

Want to make breaded chicken tenders that everyone will love? This classic recipe for homemade chicken fingers is easy to make. You’ll need just a few ingredients and simple steps to create a dish that everyone will enjoy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 2 pounds of chicken tenderloins
• 1.5 cups of all-purpose flour
• 4 large eggs, beaten
• 2 cups of breadcrumbs
• 1.5 teaspoons of baking powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 tablespoons of olive oil

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Rinse the chicken tenderloins and pat them dry with paper towels.
2. In a shallow bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper.
3. In another bowl, beat the eggs.
4. In a third bowl, put the breadcrumbs.
5. Dip each chicken tenderloin in flour, then eggs, and finally breadcrumbs.
6. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
7. Fry the breaded chicken tenders in batches for 5 minutes per side. They should be golden brown and the inside should be 165°F.
8. Drain the fried crispy chicken tenders on a paper towel-lined plate.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy these tasty homemade chicken fingers with your favorite sauces. Try honey mustard, barbecue, or ranch. They go great with a side salad, french fries, or roasted veggies for a full meal.

“These breaded chicken tenders are a classic family favorite that never disappoints. The crispy exterior and juicy interior make them irresistible!”

Grilled Chicken Tenderloin Skewers

Grilled chicken tenderloin skewers are a great choice for dinner. They are flavorful and satisfying, perfect for any night. Marinating the chicken and skewering it makes the dish even better.

Marinade Options

There are many marinades to make your grilled chicken tenderloin taste amazing:

• Lemon-Herb Marinade: Mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs like rosemary and thyme.
• Teriyaki Marinade: Use soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger for a sweet flavor.
• Spicy Sriracha Marinade: Blend Sriracha, lime juice, honey, and crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy taste.

Grilling Techniques

After marinating, thread the chicken onto skewers. Grill them at medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes on each side. Make sure to brush with marinade while grilling for extra flavor.

Perfect Pairings

Pair your chicken tenderloin skewers with fresh veggies like zucchini and bell peppers. A light rice pilaf or green salad is great too. These healthy chicken recipes are balanced and loved by all.

“These grilled chicken tenderloin skewers are a game-changer! The marinade adds so much flavor, and the tender chicken is simply delicious.”

Honey Garlic Chicken Tenderloins

Get ready to enjoy a tasty dish that mixes sweet and savory flavors. This quick recipe is great for a weeknight dinner. It’s ready in just 15 minutes.

Simple Ingredients List

To make this honey garlic chicken, you’ll need:

• 2 pounds (907 g) of boneless, skinless chicken tenderloins
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) of honey
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons (30 ml) of soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon (15 ml) of olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Method

First, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken tenderloins and cook for 3-4 minutes per side. This will make them lightly browned.

Then, add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute. This will make the garlic fragrant.

In a small bowl, mix the honey and soy sauce. Pour this sauce over the chicken. Let it simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring now and then. This will make the sauce thick and the chicken fully cooked, with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Ideal Side Dishes

The honey garlic chicken goes well with many side dishes. Try it with steamed rice, roasted veggies, or a fresh salad. This easy chicken recipe will make everyone happy and leave them wanting more.

Creamy Chicken Tenderloin Pasta

Enjoy a creamy chicken pasta dish that’s both comforting and flavorful. This chicken pasta recipe is quick to make, with tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a rich sauce. It’s ready in just 20 minutes.

Ingredient Breakdown

The main ingredients for this quick pasta dinner are:

• 1 pound (450 g) of chicken tenderloins or chicken cutlets
• 8 ounces (225 g) of dried pasta
• 2 tablespoons (26 g) of all-purpose flour
• 2 cups (480 ml) of chicken stock
• ¾ cup (180 ml) of heavy cream (or half and half)
• ¾ cup (64 g) of shredded Parmesan cheese
• Seasonings like garlic, salt, and pepper

Cooking Process

To make this creamy chicken pasta, start by cooking the pasta until it’s al dente. Drain and set it aside. Then, sauté the chicken tenderloins until they’re fully cooked, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.

In the same skillet, mix the flour with the chicken stock and heavy cream. Let the sauce simmer until it thickens, about 5-8 minutes. Add the cooked chicken back into the pan and stir in the Parmesan cheese. Finally, mix the cooked pasta with the creamy chicken mixture.

Tips for Perfect Pasta

To get the best results, cook the pasta al dente. This helps the sauce thicken as it cooks. Also, using freshly grated Parmesan cheese will make the dish creamier and tastier. Serve the creamy chicken tenderloin pasta hot, topped with more Parmesan cheese and parsley if you like.

This creamy chicken pasta is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a comforting dish to share with family. It’s sure to become a favorite in your home.

Pair this delightful homemade spinach pasta with your creamy chicken tenderloin pasta for a complete meal. And check out these expert pasta cooking tips to cook your pasta perfectly every time.

Spicy Chicken Tenderloin Tacos

Make your weeknight dinners exciting with these chicken tacos! Seasoned chicken tenderloins make a delicious spicy chicken recipe for a Tex-Mex dinner. Serve them in warm tortillas with your favorite toppings for a great meal.

Taco Seasoning Recipe

Here’s a mix of spices for tasty taco seasoning:

• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

Assembly Instructions

To make the spicy chicken tacos:

1. Season the chicken tenderloins with the homemade taco seasoning, ensuring they are evenly coated.
2. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the seasoned chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 15 minutes.
3. Slice or shred the cooked chicken and place it in warm tortillas.

Topping Ideas

Top your spicy chicken tacos with these fresh ingredients:

• Shredded lettuce
• Diced tomatoes
• Shredded cheese
• Sour cream
• Diced avocado
• Chopped cilantro
• Lime wedges

This quick and easy Tex-Mex dinner will satisfy your spicy chicken recipe cravings. You can adjust the spice and try different toppings!

Baked Chicken Tenderloins with Parmesan

Try a healthier version of fried chicken with these tasty baked chicken tenders. They get a crispy, flavorful crust from a mix of Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs. This healthy chicken recipe is great for a quick weeknight dinner or a family meal.

Healthier Baking Tips

To make these baked chicken tenders even better, follow these tips:

• Use a light coating of avocado oil or olive oil spray to help the breadcrumb mixture stick to the chicken.
• Choose whole-wheat or panko breadcrumbs for more fiber and crunch.
• Add fresh herbs like parsley or basil to the coating for extra flavor.

Time and Temperature

Preheat your oven to 425°F. Bake the Parmesan chicken for 12-13 minutes, until it’s golden and cooked through. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Place the chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat for the best results.

Flavor Enhancements

To make your baked chicken tenders even tastier, add garlic powder or Italian seasoning to the Parmesan and breadcrumb mix. Serve with marinara sauce for dipping. Pair it with a fresh salad or roasted veggies for a full and healthy meal.

“These baked chicken tenders are a game-changer! They’re crispy, flavorful, and so much healthier than the fried version. My family loves them.”

Stir-Fried Chicken Tenderloins with Vegetables

Try this tasty chicken stir-fry for a quick, healthy dinner. It’s made with many nutritious vegetables. This vegetable stir-fry is ready in just 30 minutes. It’s perfect for a quick Asian-inspired dinner.

Essential Vegetables to Use

To make a colorful, flavorful stir-fry, use a mix of fresh vegetables. Include:

• Broccoli florets
• Sliced red bell pepper
• Julienned carrots
• Diced onion
• Chopped scallions

Stir-Fry Techniques

For a great chicken stir-fry, use high heat and work in batches. Start by cooking the chicken tenderloins until they’re lightly browned. Then, remove them from the pan.

Next, stir-fry the vegetables until they’re crisp-tender. Finally, add the chicken back in and toss with a tasty sauce. The sauce is made from soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger, and garlic.

Serving Over Rice or Noodles

For a full meal, serve the vegetable stir-fry over steamed white rice or noodles. This dish is a quick, Asian-inspired dinner full of protein, fiber, and great flavors.

Slow Cooker Chicken Tenderloin Stew

When it gets cold outside, nothing is better than a warm, comforting chicken stew. This chicken tenderloin stew recipe is easy to make and full of flavor. It turns simple ingredients into a delicious comfort food dinner.

Ingredients for Heartiness

The secret to a great chicken stew is in the ingredients. Start with 1.5 lb. of boneless, skinless chicken tenderloins. They stay tender and juicy for hours. Add sweet onions, celery, carrots, and potatoes for a balanced meal.

Season the stew with garlic, bay leaf, thyme, rosemary, paprika, and poultry seasoning. Chicken broth and a bit of cornstarch make it thick and flavorful.

Slow Cooking Instructions

This chicken stew is easy to make. Just put all the ingredients in your slow cooker and let it cook. It cooks on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

As it cooks, the broth thickens, making it creamy. It’s perfect over crusty bread or fluffy rice.

Serving Suggestions

When it’s ready, serve the slow cooker chicken tenderloin stew as the main dish. Add fresh parsley for color and flavor. Serve with warm bread, rice, or mashed potatoes.

This slow cooker chicken stew is perfect for a cozy dinner or a family meal. The aroma will fill your home, and every spoonful is a delight.

Citrus-Glazed Chicken Tenderloins

Make your weeknight dinner special with citrus-glazed chicken tenderloins. The glaze mixes orange juice, lemon zest, honey, and Dijon mustard. It makes the chicken taste amazing.

Zesty Ingredients Overview

The glaze’s main ingredients are 1/4 cup of raw honey, 1/4 cup of coconut aminos, and 1/4 cup of orange juice. It also has 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil, and spices. These ingredients enhance the chicken’s natural taste.

Cooking Steps

Begin by cooking the chicken tenderloins in a skillet with lard or bacon fat. Once cooked, add the glaze ingredients to the pan. Let it simmer until it thickens and covers the chicken well. This whole process takes about 15 minutes, making it a quick and tasty summer dinner.

Best Accompaniments

Citrus-glazed chicken goes well with light and refreshing sides. Try it with a crisp green salad, roasted asparagus, or fluffy quinoa. The dish’s bright flavors match these simple yet tasty sides.

What are chicken tenderloins good for?

Chicken tenderloins are versatile and great for quick meals. They’re ideal for dishes like stir-fries, breaded chicken tenders, salads, wraps, and skewers due to their tenderness and quick cooking time.

Do you pull the white thing out of chicken tenderloins?

Yes, the white tendon in chicken tenderloins is often removed because it can be tough and chewy. A quick pull with a fork or knife makes them easier to eat.

Is chicken tenderloin the same as chicken tenders?

Not exactly. Chicken tenderloins are the actual muscle located under the chicken breast. “Chicken tenders” can refer to the tenderloin or any cut of chicken that’s breaded and fried, often used interchangeably.

Do chicken tenderloins cook faster than breasts?

Yes, chicken tenderloins cook faster than chicken breasts because they are smaller and thinner. They are perfect for quick-cooking methods like sautéing or grilling.