Best Chicken Tenderloin Recipes You’ll Love

Are you tired of boring chicken dinners? Discover how chicken tenderloin recipes can make your meals amazing!

Chicken tenderloins are a secret weapon in every home cook’s kitchen. They are tender, flavorful, and cook quickly. Whether you’re busy or love cooking, these recipes will change your meal planning.

Explore a world of culinary possibilities with these versatile protein powerhouses. Our collection includes crispy fried and healthy baked dishes. There’s something for every taste and diet.

Get ready to make your weeknight dinners extraordinary. These chicken tenderloin recipes promise big flavor with little effort.

chicken tenderloin recipes

A complete guide to cooking chicken tenderloins, featuring fried, baked, grilled, skillet, Asian-inspired, saucy, and healthy meal-prep variations. The article explains why tenderloins are ideal for quick weeknight dinners, offers cooking tips, common mistakes to avoid, and provides multiple recipe ideas with flavor variations and serving suggestions.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Marinating Time 1 hour hr

Total Time 1 hour hr 35 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Appetizer, Dinner, Lunch, meal prep

Cuisine: American, asian, Mediterranean

Calories: 300

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 – 1.5 lb Chicken tenderloins
• Salt & black pepper
• Paprika or smoked paprika
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Olive oil or butter
• Lemon juice
• Fresh herbs parsley, thyme, dill
• Buttermilk for marinades
• Soy sauce for Asian recipes
• Brown sugar or honey
• All-purpose flour
• Cornstarch
• Bread crumbs or Parmesan
• Eggs
• Hot sauce or buffalo sauce
• Yogurt optional for marinades

Equipment

• Skillet or cast-iron pan
• Oven / baking sheet
• Grill
• Mixing bowls
• Tongs
• Meat thermometer
• Air fryer optional
• Wire rack optional for breading

Method

 

1. Prepare the Chicken:

   Pat chicken tenderloins dry.

   Season with salt, pepper, and spices.

   Optional: marinate 1–4 hours (buttermilk, soy sauce, citrus, or yogurt).
2. Choose Cooking Method:

   Skillet:

   Heat oil/butter, sear tenderloins 1–2 min per side.

   Add garlic, lemon, or broth to deglaze if desired.

   Cook to 165°F.

   Oven:

   Bake at 400°F for 15–20 minutes.

   For breaded versions, bake on a wire rack for crispiness.

   Grill:

   Preheat to medium-high.

   Cook 4–5 minutes per side.

   Fried:

   Dredge in flour → buttermilk → flour/breadcrumb mixture.

   Fry at 350°F for ~3 minutes per side.
3. Rest the Chicken:

   Let rest 3–5 minutes before serving for maximum juiciness.
4. Serve:

   With salads, rice, dipping sauces, wraps, bowls, or waffles.

Notes

• Do not overcook chicken tenderloins; they dry quickly.
• Bring chicken to room temp for even cooking.
• Avoid overcrowding the pan when searing.
• For crispier fried chicken, use a double-dredge technique.
• For meal prep, cooked tenderloins store for 4 days.
• Use cornstarch for extra crispy Asian-style tenders.
• Resting the chicken after cooking keeps it juicy.

Why Chicken Tenderloins Are Perfect for Quick Weeknight Dinners

Busy home cooks look for easy chicken tenderloin recipes. They want to save time without losing flavor. Chicken tenderloins are the perfect choice for quick weeknight meals that taste great and are easy to make.

Tenderloins are small, delicate strips of white meat under the chicken breast. They are a game-changer for home cooking. They are especially great for quick meals that can be made in minutes.

Understanding Chicken Tenders vs. Chicken Breasts

Chicken tenders and chicken breasts might look similar, but they are different:

• Size: Tenderloins are smaller and more uniform
• Cooking Time: Tenderloins cook much faster than breasts
• Texture: Naturally more tender and juicy
• Preparation: Require minimal prep work

Benefits of Cooking with Chicken Tenderloins

Chicken tenderloins are great for home cooking. They soak up marinades fast, cook evenly, and have consistent sizes. This makes them perfect for easy recipes that fill you up without taking a lot of time.

Whether you’re a busy parent, professional, or home cook, chicken tenderloins are a versatile protein. They make weeknight dinners go from boring to amazing.

Essential Tips for Cooking Juicy Chicken Tenderloins

Learning to cook chicken tenderloins well is about mastering a few key techniques. These cuts are delicate and can dry out if not cooked right. The secret to juicy chicken is in how you prepare and cook it.

First, let your chicken tenderloins come to room temperature before cooking. This ensures they cook evenly. Seasoning is also key for flavor in your chicken dishes.

• Pat the chicken dry with paper towels before seasoning
• Use a blend of salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs
• Let the seasoned chicken rest for 15-20 minutes before cooking

Marinating is a big help for tender, tasty chicken. Buttermilk is a great natural tenderizer. Here are some tips for marinating:

1. Soak chicken in buttermilk for 1-4 hours
2. Keep marinated chicken refrigerated
3. Pat dry before cooking to ensure a good sear

The most important tip for juicy chicken tenderloins is to not overcook them. Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature. After cooking, let the chicken rest for 3-5 minutes. This helps the juices spread evenly, making each bite moist and tasty.

Crispy Breaded Chicken Tenderloin Recipes

Delicious chicken tenderloin recipes aim for a crispy outside and juicy inside. Breading techniques turn simple chicken into tasty meals. You can choose between frying or baking for a crispy chicken fix.

Classic Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenders

Experience the ultimate crispy chicken with these recipes! A buttermilk marinade adds flavor and juiciness. Double-dredging makes the coating incredibly crunchy.

• Ingredients for wet mixture:
  • 1 lb chicken tenderloins
  • 2 cups buttermilk
  • 1 large egg
• Seasonings: garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, paprika
• Ingredients for dry mixture:
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup corn starch
  • Matching seasonings as wet mixture

These buttermilk chicken tenders are a great option if you’re craving a homemade fried chicken strips recipe with extra crunch.

Oven-Baked Parmesan Crusted Chicken Tenderloins

For a healthier option, try these delicious chicken tenderloin recipes. They offer great flavor without too much oil. The Parmesan crust adds a rich, crispy texture.

Cooking tip: Pan-fry the tenderloins first for a golden crust. Then, bake them to ensure perfect cooking. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce for extra flavor!

Grilled Chicken Tenderloin Recipes for Summer

Summer is the best time to grill up some tasty chicken tenderloins. Grilling them adds a smoky flavor that makes the meat tender and juicy.

Here are some key tips for making your grilled chicken tenderloins extra flavorful:

• Marinate your tenderloins for at least 30 minutes before grilling
• Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F)
• Oil the grill grates to prevent sticking
• Cook tenderloins for 4-5 minutes per side

Pineapple Soy Chicken Tenderloin Skewers are a great summer choice. The mix of pineapple juice, soy sauce, and brown sugar makes a tasty marinade. It tenderizes the meat and adds amazing flavor.

If you like a smoky-sweet taste, try a barbecue-rubbed chicken tenderloin. Use homemade spice blends with paprika, garlic powder, and brown sugar. This creates a delicious crust on your tenderloins.

“The secret to perfect grilled chicken tenderloins is patience and proper seasoning.” – Grilling Expert

Let your grilled chicken tenderloins rest for a few minutes after cooking. This ensures they stay juicy. Serve them as appetizers, on fresh summer salads, or as the main dish at your backyard barbecue.

Quick Skillet Chicken Tenderloin Recipes

Looking for tasty chicken tenderloin recipes that are quick and easy? Skillet cooking is the way to go. It turns simple chicken into restaurant-quality dishes in no time.

• Faster cooking times
• Easy cleanup
• Intense flavor development
• Versatile cooking techniques

Garlic Butter Chicken Tenders in Cast Iron

Cast iron skillets are perfect for searing chicken tenderloins. They cook evenly, making the outside golden and the inside juicy.

For this quick chicken tenderloin recipe, you’ll need:

Cooking technique is key for these recipes. Sear the tenders for 1-2 minutes per side. Then, deglaze with chicken broth to get all the tasty browned bits.

Lemon Herb Pan-Seared Chicken Tenderloins

For a lighter dish, try lemon herb pan-seared tenderloins. It’s bright and citrusy, ready in under 15 minutes.

Pro tip: A splash of lemon juice and fresh herbs can turn a simple chicken tenderloin into a gourmet meal!

These skillet chicken tenderloin recipes are perfect for a quick dinner or to impress guests. They show that delicious meals can be simple and fast.

Asian-Inspired Chicken Tenderloin Recipes

Want to enjoy Asian flavors at home? Easy chicken tenderloin recipes make it easy. They turn simple chicken into a tasty meal that wows everyone.

Here are two tasty Asian-inspired chicken tenderloin recipes you’ll love:

• Sweet and Sour Chicken Tenders: A classic dish with perfect tangy and sweet flavors
• Mongolian Chicken: A recipe with deep flavors, just like your favorite takeout

The sweet and sour version needs a homemade sauce. It should mix vinegar, sugar, and soy sauce well. Coat your chicken tenderloins well and serve with steamed rice for a full meal.

“Wow! This was amazing — deep flavor, quick cook, and very easy to make. I would opt for this over takeout any day of the week.” – Home Cook Review

Mongolian chicken tenders are another great choice. They use high heat and a sweet-savory sauce with garlic, ginger, and brown sugar. You’ll get restaurant-quality tenders in 30 minutes.

For these recipes, use cornstarch for a crispy coating. It helps sauces stick to your chicken perfectly.

Healthy Chicken Tenderloin Recipes for Meal Prep

Meal prepping with healthy chicken tenderloin recipes can change your weekly meal routine. These lean proteins are great for making tasty, healthy meals that save time and help you stay healthy.

Chicken tenderloins are super versatile for meal prep. They cook fast, soak up flavors well, and are a protein-rich base for many dishes all week.

Smart Marinating Techniques for Maximum Flavor

Boost your healthy chicken tenderloin recipes with these marinating tips:

• Try citrus-based marinades for tenderizing
• Play with herb-infused yogurt marinades
• Marinate for at least one hour

Here are some pro marinating tips:

1. Keep it in the fridge while marinating
2. Use containers that won’t react with food
3. Don’t reuse marinade that’s been in contact with raw chicken

Batch cooking healthy chicken tenderloin recipes means you’ll have tasty, protein-rich meals in no time. Store marinated, cooked tenderloins in airtight containers for up to four days. This opens up a world of meal options.

“Meal prep turns cooking into a smart nutrition plan.” – Culinary Nutrition Expert

With these techniques, you’ll make delicious, healthy chicken tenderloin meals. These meals will keep you full and help you reach your health goals.

Chicken Tenderloin Recipes with Irresistible Sauces

Make your chicken tenderloin recipes stand out with amazing sauces. These sauces can turn a simple meal into a gourmet dish. The right sauce can change the taste of your chicken, making it taste like it’s from a restaurant.

Here are some incredible sauce options for your chicken tenderloins:

• Spicy Horseradish Dipping Sauce: A creamy mix of mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, whole grain mustard, and fresh horseradish
• Mediterranean Sauce: With sun-dried tomatoes, green olives, and fresh parsley
• Classic Buffalo Sauce: A spicy coating with melted mozzarella cheese
• Herb-Infused Dill and Lemon Cream Sauce: A fancy mushroom-based sauce with fresh herbs

Your chicken tenderloin recipes need sauces that add a lot of flavor. Each sauce gives your dish a special taste – from tangy and spicy to rich and creamy. Try different sauces to keep your meals exciting and tasty.

Pro tip for chicken tenderloin lovers: Always make your sauces fresh. Keep your ingredients ready for quick, flavorful meals that will wow your family and guests.

Creative Ways to Serve Chicken Tenderloins

Chicken tenderloin recipes are more than just dinner. They can be turned into exciting dishes that wow everyone. Whether it’s for your family or guests, these recipes are sure to impress.

Explore new ways to serve chicken tenderloins. These ideas will make your meals even more special:

Spectacular Salad Toppers

Make any salad better with chicken tenderloins. These lean proteins add a lot of flavor and nutrition to your salad.

• Grill seasoned chicken tenders with herb blends
• Slice tenders into thin strips for even distribution
• Pair with complementary salad ingredients

Here are some tasty salad ideas:

1. Caesar salad with Parmesan-crusted tenders
2. Asian-inspired salad with mandarin oranges and crispy tenders
3. Mixed greens with lemon-herb chicken tenderloins

Brunch Sensation: Chicken and Waffles

Make your weekend brunch unforgettable with chicken and waffles. The crispy chicken and golden waffles together are a hit.

Air fryer chicken tenders, bacon, cheddar cheese, and maple mayonnaise make this dish irresistible!

For the best chicken and waffles, make sure your tenders are extra crispy. Serve them right away for the best taste.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cooking Chicken Tenderloins

Learning to cook chicken tenderloins well means knowing what not to do. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can make sure your chicken is always juicy and tasty.

• Overcooking: Chicken tenderloins cook quickly and can dry out in seconds
• Incorrect temperature management
• Poor seasoning techniques
• Improper pan preparation

Getting the temperature right is key when cooking chicken tenderloins. Always use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should reach 165°F to keep the meat juicy and safe to eat.

How you cook the chicken is also important. Here are some mistakes to avoid:

1. Cooking chicken directly from refrigerator
2. Overcrowding the cooking pan
3. Moving chicken too frequently while cooking
4. Skipping the resting period after cooking

Give chicken enough space and time to cook well. Let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before cooking. When using a skillet, make sure each tenderloin has room to sear properly.

When reheating chicken, be careful. Don’t use the microwave, as it dries out the meat. Instead, reheat it on the stovetop with a bit of chicken broth to keep it moist and flavorful.

Conclusion

Your journey with chicken tenderloin recipes is just starting. These versatile proteins open up endless possibilities for tasty meals. You’ve learned new ways to cook and add flavor to your dishes.

Chicken tenderloins are perfect for any meal, from crispy to grilled. You can make them a regular part of your cooking. They’re quick, affordable, and healthy, making them ideal for any occasion.

Choose a recipe that you love and start cooking. Try new things and see how your skills grow. Soon, you’ll be making delicious chicken dishes that everyone will love.

Cooking is all about exploring and trying new things. With chicken tenderloins, you can create amazing meals. Trust yourself and enjoy the tasty results. Your meals will be a hit with everyone!

FAQ

What are chicken tenderloins?

Chicken tenderloins are small, tender strips of meat from under the chicken breast. They are more tender and cook faster than chicken breasts. This makes them great for quick meals. Each tenderloin is the same size, ensuring even cooking and easy portion control.

How long does it take to cook chicken tenderloins?

Chicken tenderloins cook quickly, taking 3-4 minutes per side. When grilling, they need 4-5 minutes over medium-high heat. It’s important to cook them to 165°F to avoid dryness.

Are chicken tenderloins healthier than chicken breasts?

Chicken tenderloins and chicken breasts are similar in nutrition. They are lean, high in protein, and low in fat. Their small size is perfect for portion control and meal prep. Cooking methods like baking, grilling, or air frying with little fat can make them even healthier.

Can I freeze chicken tenderloins?

Yes, you can freeze chicken tenderloins. They keep well for 3-4 months in an airtight freezer bag. For best results, freeze them in a single layer with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Thaw in the fridge overnight before cooking.

What are the best marinades for chicken tenderloins?

Great marinades include buttermilk, citrus like pineapple or lemon juice, yogurt, and vinegar. Marinate for at least an hour, or up to overnight, for the best flavor.

How do I prevent chicken tenderloins from becoming dry?

To avoid dryness, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Start with room temperature chicken. Don’t move it too much while cooking to get a good sear. Let it rest for a few minutes after cooking to redistribute juices.

Can I use chicken tenderloins in meal prep?

Absolutely! Chicken tenderloins are perfect for meal prep. They’re portion-controlled, reheat well, and can be prepared in many ways. You can batch cook them with different seasonings, store them in the fridge for up to 4 days, and use them in salads, grain bowls, wraps, and more.

What’s the best way to bread chicken tenderloins?

The best breading is double-dredging. Coat the chicken in seasoned flour, then in buttermilk, and again in seasoned breadcrumbs or Parmesan cheese. For extra crunch, pan-fry first and then bake, or deep-fry at 350°F for about 3 minutes per side.

Are there gluten-free options for chicken tenderloin recipes?

Yes! Use gluten-free alternatives like almond flour, coconut flour, or gluten-free breadcrumbs for breading. Make sure your marinades and sauces are gluten-free. Check ingredient labels to keep your preparation gluten-free.

What are some quick chicken tenderloin recipe ideas?

Quick ideas include garlic butter skillet tenders, lemon herb pan-seared tenders, grilled pineapple skewers, sweet and sour Asian-style tenders, and Parmesan-crusted baked tenders. Most of these recipes can be made in 10-15 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.