Quick & Flavorful Chicken Tenders Recipe
If you’re looking for a quick, flavorful meal that’s both simple and satisfying, these chicken tenders are just what you need!
With just a few pantry ingredients, you can make juicy, tender chicken coated in a savory, buttery garlic sauce that’s bursting with flavor.
Perfect for busy weeknights or anytime you want a dish that feels special without the fuss.
Get ready to enjoy your new favorite chicken recipe in just 15 minutes!
For Chicken Tenders
- Chicken Tenderloins – These are the star of the dish. They cook quickly and stay juicy and tender.
- Olive Oil – For sautéing the chicken and adding a rich flavor.
- Butter – Used to create a luscious, flavorful sauce.
- Paprika – Adds a warm, smoky flavor to the chicken.
- Salt – Enhances the flavors of the dish.
- Black Pepper – For a subtle kick and balance of flavor.
- Garlic – Adds an aromatic richness to the sauce.
- Italian Seasoning – A blend of herbs that brings a savory, herby flavor.
- Fresh Parsley – Chopped for garnish and a pop of freshness.
For the Sauce
- Water – Used to deglaze the pan, scraping up all the delicious browned bits for extra flavor.
Quick & Flavorful Chicken Tenders Recipe
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Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter, divided
- 1 pound (450g) chicken tenderloins (or mini fillets)
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 4 cloves garlic, minced or crushed
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chicken tenders to the pan, seasoning them with paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 3 minutes on each side, ensuring each side is seasoned as you go.
- Push the chicken tenders to one side of the skillet. Add the remaining tablespoon of butter and the garlic to the pan. Cook for about 30 seconds, or until the garlic becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Sprinkle Italian seasoning over the chicken, then cook for an additional minute.
- Add 2 tablespoons of water to the pan to deglaze, scraping up any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom of the skillet.
- Garnish with chopped parsley or fresh basil before serving.
Tips:
- Keep a close eye on the garlic to prevent burning, as it cooks very quickly and can turn bitter.
- Chicken tenders cook fast, so be mindful of not overcooking them. Check the internal temperature, and make sure it reaches 165°F (74°C).
- To ensure a rich sauce, deglaze the pan with water to capture all the flavorful bits at the bottom.
Nutrition
Calories: 293 kcal | Carbohydrates: 3g | Protein: 33g | Fat: 16g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Cholesterol: 117mg | Sodium: 567mg | Potassium: 626mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 0.2g | Vitamin A: 1060 IU | Vitamin C: 5mg | Calcium: 34mg | Iron: 1mg
- How can I make the chicken tenders extra crispy without frying?
If you’re looking to skip the frying, you can bake them! Just coat the chicken in breadcrumbs and place them on a baking sheet. Spray with a little cooking oil, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes until golden and crispy. It’s a healthier option with minimal mess!
- Can I substitute butter with something else for a lighter version?
Absolutely! If you prefer a lighter version, you can swap butter for olive oil or avocado oil. These options still give you great flavor, but with less saturated fat. You won’t miss the butter, trust me!
- What can I use if I don’t have fresh parsley for garnish?
No worries! If you don’t have fresh parsley, fresh basil or thyme would work just as well. Or, if you’re in a pinch, a sprinkle of dried herbs will still add that touch of flavor and color you need.
- Can I prepare the chicken tenders in advance?
Yes! You can prep the chicken tenders a few hours ahead of time by seasoning and coating them. Just cover them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. When it’s time to eat, they’ll cook even faster!
- What should I do if I overcooked the chicken?
If the chicken gets overcooked, don’t stress! A drizzle of extra sauce or even a squeeze of lemon will help bring back some moisture and keep it delicious. A quick dip in a creamy dip works wonders too!
