Elevate your dining experience with these mouthwatering chicken tenderloin recipes that transform ordinary poultry into extraordinary meals.
From crispy breaded favorites to succulent grilled variations, these versatile cuts offer the perfect canvas for creating memorable dishes.
Whether you’re planning a quick weeknight dinner or an elegant gathering, these 10 recipes will help you master the art of cooking chicken tenderloins.
Get ready to discover creative marinades, innovative cooking techniques, and flavor combinations that will have your family and guests asking for seconds.
Crispy Air Fryer Honey Garlic Chicken Tenderloins
Crispy Air Fryer Honey Garlic Chicken Tenderloins are the perfect combination of sweet and savory, delivering restaurant-quality results right from your air fryer.
These golden-brown tenderloins are juicy on the inside and crispy on the outside, coated in a delectable honey garlic sauce that will make your taste buds dance.
Ingredients:
• 1.5 lbs chicken tenderloins
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup honey
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp salt
• Cooking spray
Step 1: Set up your breading station with three shallow bowls – flour in the first, beaten eggs in the second, and panko breadcrumbs mixed with paprika, salt, and pepper in the third.
Step 2: Dip each chicken tenderloin in flour, then egg, and finally coat with seasoned panko breadcrumbs.
Step 3: Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C). Spray the basket with cooking spray.
Step 4: Place breaded tenderloins in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don’t overlap. Spray with cooking spray.
Step 5: Cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Step 6: While chicken cooks, combine honey, minced garlic, and soy sauce in a small bowl.
Step 7: Brush the honey garlic sauce over the cooked tenderloins before serving.
Pro Tip: For extra crispiness, let the breaded tenderloins rest for 5 minutes before air frying. Also, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket – cook in batches if necessary for the best results.
Parmesan Crusted Baked Chicken Tenders
Elevate your chicken tender game with this crispy, Parmesan-crusted version that’s baked, not fried.
These tenders deliver a perfect crunch on the outside while staying juicy on the inside.
Your family will love this healthier take on the classic favorite, and you’ll appreciate how easy it is to prepare.
Ingredients:
• 2 pounds chicken tenderloins
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons milk
• Cooking spray
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: In a shallow bowl, combine Parmesan, panko, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Step 3: In another bowl, whisk together eggs and milk.
Step 4: Pat chicken tenders dry with paper towels.
Step 5: Dip each tender in the egg mixture, then coat thoroughly in the Parmesan mixture.
Step 6: Place breaded tenders on the prepared baking sheet. Spray lightly with cooking spray.
Step 7: Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Pro Tip: For the crispiest results, avoid overcrowding your baking sheet – leave space between each tender. Also, letting the breaded tenders sit for 5 minutes before baking helps the coating adhere better during cooking.
Spicy Buffalo Ranch Chicken Tenderloins
Spice up your dinner routine with these irresistible Spicy Buffalo Ranch Chicken Tenderloins!
This mouthwatering dish combines the perfect balance of spicy buffalo sauce and creamy ranch seasoning, creating tender, juicy chicken that’s packed with bold flavors.
Your family will love this simple yet impressive meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
• 2 lbs chicken tenderloins
• 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
• 2 tablespoons ranch seasoning mix
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• Ranch dressing for serving
Step 1: In a large bowl, mix buffalo sauce, ranch seasoning, olive oil, and all dry spices until well combined.
Step 2: Add chicken tenderloins to the mixture and coat thoroughly. Let marinate for 15-20 minutes.
Step 3: Preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat.
Step 4: Cook chicken for 5-6 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Step 5: Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Step 6: Drizzle with ranch dressing and serve hot with your favorite sides.
Pro Tip: For the juiciest results, avoid overcooking the tenderloins – they cook quickly due to their size. To amp up the heat level, you can add extra buffalo sauce during the last minute of cooking for an extra kick of spice.
Coconut Curry Grilled Chicken Strips
Transform your ordinary chicken dinner into an exotic culinary adventure with these tender, flavorful coconut curry grilled chicken strips.
This Thai-inspired dish combines the richness of coconut milk with aromatic curry spices, creating a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and slightly spicy flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.
Ingredients:
• 1½ pounds chicken breast, cut into strips
• 1 cup coconut milk
• 2 tablespoons yellow curry powder
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 lime, juiced
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• Fresh cilantro for garnish
Cooking Instructions:
Step 1: In a large bowl, whisk together coconut milk, curry powder, garlic, ginger, honey, lime juice, oil, salt, and pepper.
Step 2: Add chicken strips to the marinade, cover, and refrigerate for 2-4 hours.
Step 3: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 375°F).
Step 4: Remove chicken from marinade and discard the remaining liquid.
Step 5: Grill chicken strips for 4-5 minutes per side until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
Step 6: Let rest for 5 minutes, then garnish with fresh cilantro.
Pro Tip: For the most tender results, don’t marinate the chicken for more than 4 hours, as the lime juice can start to break down the meat’s texture. Also, ensure your grill grates are well-oiled to prevent sticking and achieve those perfect grill marks.
Lemon Herb Mediterranean Chicken Tenders
Transform your ordinary chicken dinner into a burst of Mediterranean flavors with these zesty, herb-infused chicken tenders.
This light and refreshing dish combines the bright notes of lemon with aromatic herbs, creating a perfect balance that’ll transport your taste buds to the sunny Mediterranean coast.
Ingredients:
• 1.5 lbs chicken tenders
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 lemons (juice and zest)
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Fresh parsley for garnish
Cooking Instructions:
Step 1: Mix olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, and all herbs and spices in a bowl to create your marinade.
Step 2: Place chicken tenders in the marinade and refrigerate for 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours).
Step 3: Preheat your skillet over medium-high heat.
Step 4: Remove chicken from marinade and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Step 5: Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges before serving.
Pro Tip: For the juiciest results, don’t overcrowd your pan when cooking the tenders – work in batches if necessary. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
Crunchy Pretzel-Crusted Chicken Tenderloins
Craving a twist on classic chicken tenders?
This Crunchy Pretzel-Crusted Chicken Tenderloins recipe transforms ordinary chicken into a crispy, salty delight that your whole family will love.
The crushed pretzels create an irresistibly crunchy coating, while keeping the chicken juicy and tender on the inside.
Ingredients:
• 1½ pounds chicken tenderloins
• 2 cups crushed pretzels
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon salt
• Cooking spray
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Set up three shallow bowls. Place flour mixed with seasonings in the first, beaten eggs in the second, and crushed pretzels in the third.
Step 3: Pat chicken tenderloins dry with paper towels.
Step 4: Dredge each tenderloin in flour mixture, then egg wash, and finally coat with crushed pretzels.
Step 5: Place coated tenderloins on the prepared baking sheet and spray lightly with cooking spray.
Step 6: Bake for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Pro Tip: For the crunchiest coating, crush your pretzels into various sizes rather than super fine crumbs. Also, don’t skip the step of patting the chicken dry – this ensures the coating sticks properly and stays crispy during baking.
Asian Sesame Ginger Glazed Chicken Strips
Transform your ordinary chicken dinner into an Asian-inspired feast with these irresistible sesame ginger glazed chicken strips.
This dish combines the nutty flavor of sesame with the zingy kick of fresh ginger, creating a perfect balance of sweet and savory that will make your taste buds dance.
Ingredients:
• 1.5 lbs chicken breast, cut into strips
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 3 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, minced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
• 2 green onions, chopped
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1/4 cup water
Cooking Instructions:
Step 1: Mix soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, minced ginger, and garlic in a bowl to create your marinade.
Step 2: Place chicken strips in the marinade and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
Step 3: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Step 4: Remove chicken from marinade (save the marinade) and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until golden.
Step 5: Mix cornstarch with water in a small bowl.
Step 6: Pour reserved marinade into the pan, add cornstarch mixture, and cook until sauce thickens.
Step 7: Sprinkle with sesame seeds and green onions before serving.
Pro Tip: For the most tender chicken strips, make sure you slice them against the grain. You’ll also want to avoid overcrowding the pan when cooking – work in batches if necessary to ensure each piece gets perfectly caramelized.
Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken Tenders
Transform ordinary chicken tenders into a juicy, flavor-packed meal with this Greek yogurt marinade.
The natural enzymes in yogurt help tenderize the meat while infusing it with Mediterranean herbs and spices, creating a dish that’s both healthy and delicious.
Ingredients:
• 1½ pounds chicken tenders
• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon, juiced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Step 1: In a large bowl, combine Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and all seasonings. Whisk until well combined.
Step 2: Add chicken tenders to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well coated. Cover and refrigerate for 2-4 hours (avoid marinating longer than 8 hours).
Step 3: Remove chicken from refrigerator 20 minutes before cooking to reach room temperature.
Step 4: Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
Step 5: Grill chicken tenders for 4-5 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Step 6: Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Pro Tip: For the juiciest results, avoid moving the chicken tenders too much while cooking – let them develop a nice sear before flipping. If you’re using a grill pan, pat the tenders dry with paper towels before grilling to achieve better browning.
Southwest Chipotle Lime Chicken Tenderloins
Southwest Chipotle Lime Chicken Tenderloins are the perfect blend of zesty, smoky, and tangy flavors that will transport your taste buds to the American Southwest.
This quick and easy dish combines tender chicken with bold chipotle peppers and fresh lime juice, creating a versatile main course that pairs well with rice, tortillas, or your favorite salad.
Ingredients:
• 1.5 lbs chicken tenderloins
• 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped
• 3 tablespoons lime juice (about 2 fresh limes)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Fresh cilantro for garnish
Cooking Instructions:
Step 1: In a bowl, combine chipotle peppers, lime juice, olive oil, garlic, and all dry seasonings to create your marinade.
Step 2: Place chicken tenderloins in a large zip-top bag and pour the marinade over them. Seal and massage to coat evenly.
Step 3: Refrigerate for 30 minutes to 4 hours.
Step 4: Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
Step 5: Grill chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Step 6: Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro.
Pro Tip: For the most tender results, don’t marinate longer than 4 hours, as the lime juice can start to break down the meat’s texture. If you prefer less heat, remove the seeds from the chipotle peppers before adding them to the marinade.
Maple Mustard Pecan Crusted Chicken Strips
Maple Mustard Pecan Crusted Chicken Strips offer a perfect blend of sweet, tangy, and nutty flavors that will elevate your weeknight dinner game.
These crispy chicken strips feature a crunchy pecan coating and a delectable maple-mustard sauce that makes them irresistible for both kids and adults.
Ingredients:
• 1½ pounds chicken breast, cut into strips
• 1 cup pecans, finely chopped
• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• 3 tablespoons maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon whole grain mustard
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Mix maple syrup, both mustards, and half the spices in a bowl.
Step 3: Combine chopped pecans, breadcrumbs, and remaining spices in a shallow dish.
Step 4: Beat eggs in a separate bowl.
Step 5: Dip each chicken strip in the maple-mustard mixture, then egg wash, and finally coat with the pecan mixture.
Step 6: Place coated strips on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each piece.
Step 7: Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Pro Tip: Toast the pecans lightly before crushing them to enhance their nutty flavor. For the crispiest results, avoid overcrowding the baking sheet, as this allows the hot air to circulate properly around each chicken strip.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the best way to keep chicken tenderloins moist when cooking?
Marinate your chicken tenderloins for at least 30 minutes before cooking. Use a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs to lock in moisture and enhance flavor.
How long should you bake chicken tenderloins in the oven?
Bake chicken tenderloins at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes. Always check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
Which seasonings work best for crispy breaded chicken tenderloins?
Combine panko breadcrumbs with garlic powder, paprika, and Italian seasoning for the perfect crispy coating. Double-dip in egg wash for extra crunchiness.
What’s a healthy alternative to deep-frying chicken tenderloins?
Air fry your chicken tenderloins at 400°F for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through. You’ll achieve crispy results with significantly less oil.
How can you make restaurant-style honey mustard chicken tenderloins?
Combine honey, Dijon mustard, and mayonnaise for the signature sauce. Coat your cooked tenderloins and broil for 2-3 minutes for a caramelized finish.
Final Thoughts
Now you have 10 delicious ways to transform your chicken tenderloins into mouthwatering meals.
Whether you prefer crispy, grilled, or sauced variations, these recipes prove that tenderloins are incredibly versatile.
Remember to always check the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
For the best results, avoid overcooking, as tenderloins can dry out quickly. Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days, and reheat gently to maintain moisture.
Get creative with these recipes and make them your own by adjusting seasonings to your taste preferences.
