Chicken Tenderloin Recipes: 15 Delicious and Easy Ways to Cook This Versatile Cut of Chicken

Chicken tenderloins are a versatile cut of chicken that can be used in a variety of recipes. They are quick to cook and have a mild flavor that can easily adapt to different seasonings and sauces. In this article, we’ll share 15 delicious and easy ways to cook chicken tenderloins that are sure to become a family favorite.

Introduction

Chicken tenderloins are a popular cut of chicken that are perfect for quick and easy meals. They are lean, tender, and cook quickly, making them a versatile ingredient for a variety of dishes. In this article, we’ll share 15 delicious and easy ways to cook chicken tenderloins that are sure to become family favorites.

What are Chicken Tenderloins?

Chicken tenderloins are a small, thin strip of meat that is located under the breast meat of a chicken. They are often sold separately from the rest of the chicken and are typically boneless and skinless. Chicken tenderloins are a lean cut of meat that is low in fat and calories, making them a healthy protein option.

Buying and Preparing Chicken Tenderloins

When buying chicken tenderloins, look for ones that are pink and firm with no discoloration or odor. It’s best to buy chicken tenderloins fresh, but they can also be found frozen. To prepare chicken tenderloins, rinse them under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Remove any visible fat or connective tissue and season them according to your recipe.

Grilled Chicken Tenderloin Recipes

Grilling chicken tenderloins is a quick and easy way to cook them. They can be seasoned with a variety of spices and marinades to add flavor. Here are two delicious grilled chicken tenderloin recipes:

Lemon Garlic Grilled Chicken Tenderloins

Ingredients:

• 1 lb. chicken tenderloins
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp. olive oil
• 1 lemon, juiced
• 1 tsp. dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. In a small bowl, whisk together garlic, olive oil, lemon juice.

2. Place chicken tenderloins in a large zip-top bag and pour marinade over them. Seal the bag and massage the marinade into the chicken.
3. Allow chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours.
4. Remove chicken from the marinade and discard the remaining marinade.
5. Season chicken with oregano, salt, and pepper.
6. Grill chicken for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.

Honey Mustard Grilled Chicken Tenderloins

Ingredients:

• 1 lb. chicken tenderloins
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 2 tbsp. honey
• 2 tbsp. apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 tsp. garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard, honey, apple cider vinegar, and garlic powder.
3. Place chicken tenderloins in a large zip-top bag and pour marinade over them. Seal the bag and massage the marinade into the chicken.
4. Allow chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours.
5. Remove chicken from the marinade and discard the remaining marinade.
6. Season chicken with salt and pepper.
7. Grill chicken for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.

Baked Chicken Tenderloin Recipes

Baking chicken tenderloins is another easy way to cook them. They can be coated in breadcrumbs or Parmesan cheese for a crispy coating or baked with vegetables for a one-pan meal. Here are two delicious baked chicken tenderloin recipes:

Crispy Baked Chicken Tenderloins

Ingredients:

• 1 lb. chicken tenderloins
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooking spray

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Place flour in a shallow dish and season with salt and pepper.
3. In another shallow dish, beat eggs.
4. In a third shallow dish, combine breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
5. Dip each chicken tenderloin in flour, then eggs, and finally breadcrumbs mixture, pressing the crumbs to adhere.
6. Place chicken tenderloins on a baking sheet coated with cooking spray.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through and crispy.

Parmesan Baked Chicken Tenderloins

Ingredients:

• 1 lb. chicken tenderloins
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooking spray

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Place flour in a shallow dish and season with salt and pepper.
3. In another shallow dish, beat eggs.
4. In a third shallow dish, combine breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
5. Dip each chicken tenderloin in flour, then eggs, and finally breadcrumbs mixture, pressing the crumbs to adhere.
6. Place chicken tenderloins on a baking sheet coated with cooking spray.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through and crispy.

Fried Chicken Tenderloin Recipes

Frying chicken tenderloins is a classic way to cook them. They can be seasoned with a variety of spices and coated in breadcrumbs or flour for a crispy coating. Here are two delicious fried chicken tenderloin recipes:

Southern Fried Chicken Tenderloins

Ingredients:

• 1 lb. chicken tenderloins
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp. paprika
• 1 tsp. garlic powder
• 1 tsp. salt
• 1/2 tsp. black pepper
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

1. In a shallow dish, whisk together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. In another shallow dish, beat eggs.
3. In a third shallow dish, combine breadcrumbs.
4. Dip each chicken tenderloin in flour, then eggs, and finally breadcrumbs, pressing the crumbs to adhere.
5. Heat 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
6. Fry chicken tenderloins for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
7. Remove chicken from skillet and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Crispy Fried Chicken Tenderloins

Ingredients:

• 1 lb. chicken tenderloins
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp. salt
• 1/2 tsp. black pepper
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
• Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

1. In a shallow dish, whisk together flour, salt, and black pepper.
2. In another shallow dish, beat eggs.
3. In a third shallow dish, combine seasoned breadcrumbs.
4. Dip each chicken tenderloin in flour, then eggs, and finally breadcrumbs, pressing the crumbs to adhere.
5. Heat 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
6. Fry chicken tenderloins for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
7. Remove chicken from skillet and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Instant Pot Chicken Tenderloin Recipes

Using an Instant Pot to cook chicken tenderloins is a quick and easy way to have a delicious meal on the table in no time. Here are two Instant Pot chicken tenderloin recipes to try:

Instant Pot Chicken Alfredo with Tenderloins

Ingredients:

• 1 lb. chicken tenderloins
• 1 lb. fettuccine pasta
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp. unsalted butter
• 1 tsp. garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Place chicken tenderloins in the Instant Pot and season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Add fettuccine pasta on top of the chicken.
3. Pour chicken broth over the pasta and chicken, making sure the pasta is completely covered.
4. Close the Instant Pot lid and cook on high pressure for 8 minutes.
5. Once the cooking time is up, use the quick release method to release the pressure.
6. Remove the chicken and pasta from the Instant Pot and set aside.
7. Press the “saute” button on the Instant Pot and add heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and butter.
8. Cook the sauce, stirring constantly, until it thickens.
9. Add the chicken and pasta back to the Instant Pot and toss to coat in the sauce.
10. Serve hot.

Instant Pot BBQ Chicken Tenderloins

Ingredients:

• 1 lb. chicken tenderloins
• 1 cup BBQ sauce
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 2 tbsp. brown sugar
• 1 tsp. garlic powder

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce, chicken broth, brown sugar, and garlic powder.
2. Place chicken tenderloins in the Instant Pot and pour the BBQ sauce mixture over them.
3. Close the Instant Pot lid and cook on high pressure for 5 minutes.
4. Once the cooking time is up, use the quick release method to release the pressure.
5. Remove the chicken from the Instant Pot and shred it using two forks.
6. Return the shredded chicken to the Instant Pot and stir to coat in the sauce.
7. Serve hot.

Slow Cooker Chicken Tenderloin Recipes

Using a slow cooker to cook chicken tenderloins is a convenient way to have a hot meal waiting for you when you come home. Here are two delicious slow cooker chicken tenderloin recipes:

Slow Cooker Chicken Teriyaki Tenderloins

Ingredients:

• 1 lb. chicken tenderloins
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tbsp. rice vinegar
• 1 tsp. garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp. ground ginger
• 2 tbsp. cornstarch
• 2 tbsp. water
• Sesame seeds and green onions for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, garlic powder, and ground ginger.
2. Place chicken tenderloins in the slow cooker and pour the teriyaki sauce over them.
3. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours.
4. Once the cooking time is up, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and set aside.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and water.
6. Add the cornstarch mixture to the teriyaki sauce in the slow cooker and stir to combine.
7. Cook the sauce on high for 10-15 minutes, or until it thickens.
8. Return the chicken to the slow cooker and stir to coat in the sauce.
9. Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds and green onions.

Slow Cooker Chicken Enchilada Tenderloins

Ingredients:

• 1 lb. chicken tenderloins
• 1 can (10 oz.) red enchilada sauce
• 1 can (4 oz.) diced green chilies
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 tsp. cumin
• 1 tsp. chili powder
• 1/2 tsp. garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp. onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Shredded cheese and chopped cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. Place chicken tenderloins in the slow cooker.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together enchilada sauce, green chilies, chicken broth, cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the enchilada sauce mixture over the chicken.
4. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours.
5. Once the cooking time is up, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks.
6. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir to coat in the sauce.
7. Serve hot, garnished with shredded cheese and chopped cilantro.

Skillet Chicken Tenderloin Recipes

Cooking chicken tenderloins in a skillet is a quick and easy way to have a delicious meal on the table in no time. Here are two skillet chicken tenderloin recipes to try:

Creamy Skillet Chicken Tenderloins

Ingredients:

• 1 lb. chicken tenderloins
• 1 tbsp. olive oil
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp. dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken tenderloins to the skillet and season with salt and pepper.
3. Cook chicken for 3-4 minutes per side, or until browned and cooked through.
4. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
5. In the same skillet, add chicken broth, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and thyme.
6. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until the sauce thickens, stirring occasionally.
7. Add the chicken back to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley.

Skillet Chicken Marsala Tenderloins

Ingredients:

• 1 lb. chicken tenderloins
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp. dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp. olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup Marsala wine
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• Chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a shallow dish, whisk together flour, thyme, salt, and pepper.
2. Dredge chicken tenderloins in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Add chicken tenderloins to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until browned and cooked through.
5. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
6. In the same skillet, add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
7. Add Marsala wine and chicken broth to the skillet, scraping the bottom to deglaze.
8. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until it reduces by half.
9. Add heavy cream to the skillet and cook until the sauce thickens, stirring occasionally.
10. Add the chicken back to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce.
11. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley.

A Family Tradition: Southern Fried Chicken Tenderloins

Growing up in the deep south, fried chicken was a staple in our household. My grandmother, who was born and raised in Mississippi, had her own special recipe for southern fried chicken that had been passed down for generations. And one of the key ingredients? Chicken tenderloins.

As a child, I remember watching my grandmother carefully prepare the chicken, coating each tenderloin in flour and spices before frying them to golden perfection. The aroma of the crispy chicken filled the air, making my mouth water in anticipation.

Over the years, my grandmother taught me how to make her famous southern fried chicken tenderloins. And now, as an adult, I continue the tradition by making them for my own family.

The recipe is simple but oh-so-delicious. The tender, juicy chicken is coated in a flavorful mixture of flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. And the key to achieving that perfect crispy coating? Using seasoned breadcrumbs in the final step.

Whenever I make these chicken tenderloins for my family, the kitchen is filled with laughter and chatter as we sit down to enjoy a classic southern meal together. It’s a tradition that has been passed down through generations, and it’s one that I’m proud to continue.

So if you’re looking for a taste of the south, try making these southern fried chicken tenderloins. They’re sure to become a family favorite and a tradition in your own household.

Conclusion

Chicken tenderloins are a versatile ingredient that can be cooked in many ways. Whether you prefer grilling, baking, frying, using an Instant Pot, a slow cooker, or a skillet, there is a chicken tenderloin recipe for you. With the delicious recipes we’ve provided, you can make a quick and easy meal that’s sure to please everyone. So, next time you’re looking for a tasty and satisfying meal, give one of these chicken tenderloin recipes a try.

FAQs

1. Can I substitute chicken breasts for chicken tenderloins in these recipes?

• Yes, you can use chicken breasts instead of chicken tenderloins. Keep in mind that the cooking time may need to be adjusted.

2. How can I tell when chicken tenderloins are fully cooked?

• Chicken tenderloins should be cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F. You can use a meat thermometer to check the temperature.

3. Can I make these recipes ahead of time?

• Yes, some of these recipes can be made ahead of time and reheated later. Follow the instructions for each recipe to determine if it can be made ahead of time.

4. Are these recipes gluten-free?

• Some of these recipes can be made gluten free by using gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs. Be sure to check the labels of all ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free.

5. Can I use frozen chicken tenderloins in these recipes?

• It is recommended to use thawed chicken tenderloins for best results. If using frozen chicken, be sure to thaw it completely before cooking.

6. Can I use bone-in chicken in these recipes?

• These recipes are specifically designed for boneless, skinless chicken tenderloins. While you can use bone-in chicken, the cooking time and method may need to be adjusted.

7. Can I adjust the seasoning in these recipes to my personal taste?

• Yes, you can adjust the seasoning in these recipes to your personal taste. Feel free to add more or less of any seasoning listed to suit your preferences.