5 Easy Chicken Tenderloins Recipes for Dinner Tonight

Simple Chicken Tenderloins with Lemon Garlic Sauce

One of the quickest and tastiest ways to prepare chicken tenderloins is with a zesty lemon garlic sauce. This recipe not only brings out the flavors of the tenderloins but also adds a refreshing twist to your dinner.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound of chicken tenderloins
• Juice from 2 lemons
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon of olive oil
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, finely chopped for garnish

Preparation:

1. Season the chicken tenderloins with salt and pepper.
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
3. Add the tenderloins to the skillet, cooking until they are golden brown on both sides, about 4-5 minutes per side.
4. Pour in the lemon juice and add the butter, swirling the skillet to mix the sauce until the butter has melted and incorporated.
5. Continue to cook for 2 more minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

💡 Note: A splash of white wine can be added for extra flavor, but make sure to let it reduce by half before adding the lemon juice.

Crispy Parmesan Breaded Chicken Tenderloins

Want something more indulgent? Breaded chicken tenderloins with Parmesan cheese are sure to satisfy those cravings for a crunchier texture.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound of chicken tenderloins
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• ¹⁄₂ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ¹⁄₂ teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Vegetable oil for frying

Preparation:

1. Mix breadcrumbs with Parmesan cheese, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
2. Dip each chicken tenderloin into the beaten eggs, then coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture.
3. Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Fry the tenderloins until they are golden brown on each side, about 3 minutes per side.
4. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
5. Serve with your favorite dip or as part of a larger meal.

Honey Mustard Glazed Chicken Tenderloins

Combining sweet and tangy flavors, these honey mustard glazed chicken tenderloins are a delight for both kids and adults.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound chicken tenderloins
• ¹⁄₄ cup honey
• 3 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

Preparation:

1. In a bowl, mix honey, mustard, soy sauce, olive oil, and garlic to make the glaze.
2. Marinate the chicken tenderloins in half of this mixture for at least 15 minutes.
3. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the tenderloins on a baking sheet.
4. Brush the remaining glaze over the tenderloins.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the glaze is caramelized.

Asian Inspired Chicken Teriyaki Tenderloins

If you’re in the mood for something with an Asian flair, these teriyaki chicken tenderloins offer a perfect balance of sweet and umami.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound of chicken tenderloins
• ¹⁄₂ cup soy sauce
• ¹⁄₄ cup mirin
• ¹⁄₄ cup sake (or dry sherry as a substitute)
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water

Preparation:

1. In a saucepan, combine soy sauce, mirin, sake, brown sugar, ginger, and garlic. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
2. Add the cornstarch mixture to thicken the sauce, stirring constantly until it reaches the desired consistency.
3. Heat a skillet with a touch of oil, cook the chicken tenderloins for about 4 minutes on each side.
4. Pour the teriyaki sauce over the cooked tenderloins, allowing them to soak up the flavors for a couple of minutes.

Herb-Crusted Chicken Tenderloins

For a fresh and aromatic meal, try herb-crusted chicken tenderloins that can be grilled or baked to perfection.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound of chicken tenderloins
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
• 1 clove garlic, finely minced
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper

Preparation:

1. Preheat your grill or oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Combine herbs, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
3. Rub the mixture onto the chicken tenderloins, ensuring they are well coated.
4. Grill or bake the tenderloins for 6-8 minutes per side, or until fully cooked.

In wrapping up our exploration of five delightful chicken tenderloin recipes, we’ve seen how versatile this cut of chicken can be. From the tangy and aromatic lemon garlic sauce to the rich and indulgent breaded Parmesan chicken, each recipe offers a unique flavor profile while keeping things simple and quick. These dishes not only cater to various taste preferences but also allow for a nutritional balance when paired with the right sides. Remember, the key to perfect chicken tenderloins lies in cooking them just until they’re done, ensuring they remain juicy and tender. Whether you choose to savor the honey mustard’s sweetness, enjoy the umami of teriyaki, or the freshness of herbs, these recipes prove that chicken tenderloins are an excellent option for a flavorful yet effortless dinner.

Can I make these recipes ahead of time?

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Yes, all these recipes can be prepared in advance. You can marinate the chicken or prepare the breading mixture a day ahead. Just store in the fridge, and cook when ready.

Are chicken tenderloins healthier than other cuts?

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Chicken tenderloins are indeed a lean choice, lower in fat than dark meat or even chicken breasts with skin. However, the overall healthiness also depends on the cooking method and accompanying ingredients.

What are some good side dishes to serve with chicken tenderloins?

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Here are some suggestions:

• A simple salad with a vinaigrette dressing
• Roasted vegetables like carrots, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts
• Quinoa or wild rice for a filling accompaniment
• Mashed or roasted potatoes with herbs