chicken tenderloin dances across the skillet in golden-butter bliss, releasing a mouthwatering aroma that transports you straight to a cozy Sunday brunch. Each succulent strip is coated in zesty lemon-herb marinade, hugging tender flesh and promising juicy bites with every forkful. As soon as you hear that sizzle, memories of laughter-filled family dinners come rushing back. Drizzled with a rich garlic-infused broth and sprinkled with fresh parsley, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into a star-studded meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Get ready to wow your loved ones with the ultimate comfort dish—simple, speedy, and utterly irresistible.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This chicken tenderloin
- Quick to cook, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Tender and juicy, making every bite a delight.
- Versatile for various cuisines and flavors.
- Healthy protein option that’s low in fat.
- Kid-friendly and easy to customize with marinades.
chicken tenderloin
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Preheat the Oven – Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. This ensures your chicken tenderloins cook evenly and get that lovely golden color.
- Step 2: Prepare the Chicken – Pat the chicken tenderloins dry with a paper towel. This helps the seasoning stick better. Place them in a bowl.
- Step 3: Season the Chicken – Add olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika to the bowl. Toss everything together until the tenderloins are evenly coated. Get your hands in there; it’s fun!
- Step 4: Arrange on Baking Sheet – Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange the seasoned tenderloins on the sheet, making sure they’re not touching. This helps them cook perfectly.
- Step 5: Bake the Chicken – Pop the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 15–18 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Step 6: Let it Rest – Once done, take the chicken out and let it rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making your chicken tender and juicy.
Notes
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 200 |
| Fat | 10g |
| Protein | 25g |
| Carbs | 0g |
Ingredients
Here’s what you need to prepare flavorful chicken tenderloin!
- Chicken tenderloins – 4 pieces
- Olive oil – 2 tablespoons
- Salt – 1 teaspoon
- Black pepper – 1/2 teaspoon
- Garlic powder – 1/2 teaspoon
- Smoked paprika – 1/2 teaspoon
How to Make Chicken Tenderloin
Cooking chicken tenderloin is a breeze! With a prep time of just 10 minutes and a cooking time of 15–18 minutes, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time. Don’t forget to let it rest for 5 minutes before serving for the best flavor!
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. This ensures your chicken tenderloins cook evenly and get that lovely golden color.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Pat the chicken tenderloins dry with a paper towel. This helps the seasoning stick better. Place them in a bowl.
Step 3: Season the Chicken
Add olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika to the bowl. Toss everything together until the tenderloins are evenly coated. Get your hands in there; it’s fun!
Step 4: Arrange on Baking Sheet
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange the seasoned tenderloins on the sheet, making sure they’re not touching. This helps them cook perfectly.
Step 5: Bake the Chicken
Pop the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 15–18 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Step 6: Let it Rest
Once done, take the chicken out and let it rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making your chicken tender and juicy.
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category | Main Course |
| Cuisine | American |
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | 18 minutes |
| Extra Time | 5 minutes (resting) |
| Total Time | 33 minutes |
| Dietary | High Protein |
| Serves | 4 |
| Best Served | With your favorite sides! |
Pro Tips for Making chicken tenderloin
- Marinate your chicken tenderloin for at least 30 minutes to enhance flavor.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness at 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking for juicier results.
- Experiment with different herbs and spices for unique flavor profiles.
- Consider using a non-stick skillet for easy cooking and cleanup.
How to Serve this chicken tenderloin
- Serve with a side of creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting meal.
- Pair with a fresh garden salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette.
- Top with a zesty mango salsa for a tropical twist.
- Wrap in a whole grain tortilla with avocado and veggies for a tasty lunch.
- Serve over a bed of quinoa with steamed broccoli for a healthy option.
- Accompany with roasted sweet potatoes for a sweet and savory combo.
- Enjoy with a side of garlic bread for a delightful dinner experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing and reheating chicken tenderloin is simple and keeps your meals delicious.
Storing Leftovers
- Allow chicken tenderloin to cool completely.
- Place in an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Label with the date for easy tracking.
Freezing
- Wrap chicken tenderloin tightly in plastic wrap.
- Place in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
- Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
Reheating
- Thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen.
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes.
- Use a microwave on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking frequently.
- Ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) before serving.
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FAQs
Here’s a helpful FAQ about this recipe:
1. Is chicken tenderloin the same as chicken breast?
No, chicken tenderloin is not the same as chicken breast. The tenderloin is a specific part of the chicken that is located beneath the breast. It is a smaller, more tender cut of meat, which is why it is often favored for quick cooking methods and recipes that require a delicate texture.
2. How to cook chicken tenderloins so they are not dry?
To ensure your chicken tenderloins remain juicy and flavorful, consider marinating them before cooking. A simple marinade of olive oil, lemon juice, and your favorite herbs can work wonders. Additionally, cooking them over medium heat and avoiding overcooking will help retain moisture. Using a meat thermometer to check for doneness (165°F) can also prevent dryness.
3. Why are they called chicken tenderloins?
They are called tenderloins because of their tenderness. This cut of meat is known for being particularly soft and easy to chew, making it a popular choice for many dishes. The name reflects the quality of the meat, which is prized for its delicate texture.
4. Is chicken tenderloin a good cut?
Yes, chicken tenderloin is considered a good cut of meat. It is lean, tender, and versatile, making it suitable for a variety of cooking methods, from grilling to sautéing. Its mild flavor allows it to absorb marinades and seasonings well, making it a favorite among home cooks and chefs alike.
Final Thoughts
Cooking chicken tenderloin is not just easy; it’s a delightful experience that brings warmth to your kitchen! Whether you’re whipping up a quick weeknight dinner or impressing friends, this dish is sure to please. So grab your ingredients, let your creativity flow, and enjoy every bite of this simple yet rewarding meal. Happy cooking!