Chicken tenderloins are a versatile and tasty choice for many meals. These small, tender cuts of meat cook quickly and take on flavors well.

You can prepare them in many ways, from frying to baking to grilling.

With so many options, you might wonder what to do with chicken tenderloins. These 26 recipes offer fresh ideas to make the most of this convenient cut of meat. You’ll find easy weeknight dinners, party appetizers, and more.

Try new seasonings and cooking methods to keep your meals exciting.

1. Garlic Butter Chicken Tenderloins

Garlic butter chicken tenderloins are a quick and tasty meal option. You can make this dish in about 30 minutes using simple ingredients.

To start, gather chicken tenderloins, butter, olive oil, and fresh garlic. You’ll also need Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper for extra flavor.

Mix the seasonings with oil in a bowl. Coat the chicken tenderloins evenly in this mixture.

Then, cook the seasoned tenderloins in a pan with melted butter and minced garlic.

The result is juicy chicken coated in a rich, garlicky sauce. Serve with lemon wedges and chopped parsley for a fresh touch.

2. Spicy Honey Garlic Chicken Tenderloins

This tasty dish combines sweet and spicy flavors for a quick meal. You’ll start by coating chicken tenders in a mix of cornstarch, salt, pepper, and spices.

Pan fry the coated tenders for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. While they cook, make a sauce with honey, soy sauce, garlic, and chili-garlic sauce.

Pour the sauce over the crispy tenders and let it thicken.

The result is sticky, spicy-sweet chicken that’s ready in about 20 minutes. Serve with rice or veggies for a complete meal.

3. Lemon Parmesan Chicken Tenderloins

These zesty chicken tenderloins are a tasty mix of tangy and savory flavors. You’ll love the bright citrus notes from fresh lemon juice and zest.

The crispy coating is made with grated Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs. This gives the tenders a delicious crunch on the outside while keeping them juicy inside.

To make these, dip the chicken in flour, then egg, and finally the cheesy breadcrumb mixture.

Pan-fry them for about 90 seconds per side until golden brown.

Serve these lemon Parmesan tenders with a side salad or veggies for a quick and easy meal. They’re great for both kids and adults alike.

4. Pesto Chicken Tenderloins

Pesto chicken tenderloins are a tasty and easy meal. You can make them in the oven or on the stove.

To start, mix pesto and mayo in a bowl. Dip each chicken tender in this mix.

Next, coat the tenders with bread crumbs.

If you’re baking, put them on a sheet and cook at 400°F for about 15 minutes. Flip them halfway through.

For a stovetop version, heat oil in a pan. Cook the tenders for 4-5 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown.

Serve your pesto chicken tenders hot and enjoy!

5. Maple Dijon Chicken Tenderloins

Maple Dijon chicken tenderloins offer a perfect blend of sweet and tangy flavors. You’ll love how easy they are to prepare.

Mix maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and a splash of apple cider vinegar for the sauce. Add some garlic powder and a pinch of salt for extra flavor.

Coat your chicken tenderloins in the maple-Dijon mixture. You can bake them in the oven or cook them in a slow cooker.

For oven baking, place the tenderloins on a sheet pan and cook at 375°F for about 20-25 minutes. In a slow cooker, set it to low for 6-8 hours or high for 4 hours.

Serve your maple Dijon chicken tenderloins with mashed potatoes or rice for a satisfying meal.

6. Buffalo Chicken Tenderloins

Buffalo chicken tenderloins are a tasty and easy-to-make snack or meal. You’ll love the spicy kick and crispy texture of these tenders.

To make them, coat chicken tenderloins in seasoned flour, dip in egg, and fry until golden. Then toss them in buffalo sauce for that classic tangy flavor.

You can serve these tenders with ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping. They’re perfect for game day parties or a quick weeknight dinner.

Try baking the tenders instead of frying for a healthier option. You’ll still get great flavor without the extra oil.

7. Teriyaki Glazed Chicken Tenderloins

Teriyaki glazed chicken tenderloins are a tasty and easy meal option. You can make a simple teriyaki sauce with soy sauce, water, rice vinegar, sugar, ginger, garlic, and red pepper flakes.

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a baking dish. Arrange the chicken tenderloins in a single layer. Pour the teriyaki sauce over the chicken, making sure it’s well-coated.

Bake the chicken for about 20-25 minutes, or until it’s cooked through. The sauce will thicken and create a glossy glaze on the tenderloins.

Serve hot with rice and steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

8. Smoky Paprika Chicken Tenderloins

Want to add a smoky kick to your chicken? Try these paprika-spiced tenderloins. Mix paprika, salt, pepper, and garlic powder in a bowl.

Coat your chicken tenders in the spice mix. Heat oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Cook the tenders for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown.

These smoky tenders are great on their own or sliced up in salads and sandwiches. Serve with a side of roasted veggies for a quick and tasty meal.

9. Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenderloins

You’ll love these crispy coconut chicken tenderloins. They’re a tasty twist on regular chicken tenders.

To make them, you’ll need chicken tenderloins, flour, eggs, shredded coconut, and panko breadcrumbs. You can add spices like garlic powder and smoked paprika for extra flavor.

Coat the chicken in flour, then dip in egg, and roll in a mix of coconut and panko. Bake or fry until golden brown and crispy.

These tenders are great for a quick dinner or as party snacks. Serve with a dipping sauce like sweet chili or honey mustard for a perfect meal.

10. Herb-Crusted Chicken Tenderloins

Herb-crusted chicken tenderloins are a tasty and simple dish you can make at home. Start by coating your tenders in olive oil. Then, cover them with a mix of dried herbs and spices.

You can use a blend like Dan-O’s Seasoning or make your own with herbs like rosemary, thyme, and oregano. Add some salt and pepper to taste.

Cook the tenders in a hot skillet for about 6 minutes on each side. You’ll know they’re done when a golden crust forms on the outside. The inside should be juicy and tender.

Serve these flavorful tenders hot with your favorite dipping sauce or as part of a larger meal.

11. Balsamic Glazed Chicken Tenderloins

Balsamic glazed chicken tenderloins are a quick and tasty meal option. You can make them in about 20 minutes with just a few ingredients.

The glaze combines honey and balsamic vinegar for a sweet and tangy flavor. This coating makes the chicken tender and juicy.

You can cook these tenderloins in a skillet on the stovetop. Start by searing the chicken, then add butter and balsamic vinegar to create the glaze.

For a complete meal, serve your glazed tenderloins with green beans or a salad. They’re also great for meal prep. Cook extra and use them in salads or with rice during the week.

12. Sriracha Lime Chicken Tenderloins

These chicken tenderloins pack a zesty punch. Mix sriracha sauce with lime juice for a tangy and spicy coating.

Add honey to balance the heat and create a sticky glaze. Season the tenders with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.

Coat the chicken in the sriracha-lime mixture. Bake at 425°F for 15-20 minutes, turning once.

The result is juicy chicken with a spicy-sweet crust. Serve these tenders with rice or a crisp salad for a quick and tasty meal.

13. Barbecue Chicken Tenderloins

Barbecue chicken tenderloins are a tasty and simple meal you can make at home. You can bake them in the oven for a healthier option.

To start, preheat your oven to 375°F. Coat the chicken tenders in oil and sprinkle with spices like paprika, garlic powder, and salt.

Place the seasoned tenders in a baking dish. Cook them for about 25 minutes, until they’re no longer pink inside.

For extra flavor, brush BBQ sauce on the tenders during the last 5 minutes of cooking. This creates a sticky, delicious coating.

You can serve these BBQ chicken tenderloins with sides like roasted vegetables or potato salad for a complete meal.

14. Honey Mustard Chicken Tenderloins

Honey mustard chicken tenderloins are a tasty blend of sweet and tangy flavors. You can make them easily at home with a simple marinade.

Mix honey, Dijon mustard, and olive oil to create the marinade. Add your chicken tenders and let them soak for 2 to 8 hours.

Grill the marinated tenders on medium heat for juicy results with nice char marks. If you prefer, bake them in the oven at 450°F (230°C) for a hands-off approach.

For extra crunch, coat the tenders in a mixture of panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese before cooking. This gives them a crispy exterior while keeping the inside moist.

15. Teriyaki Pineapple Chicken Tenderloins

This tasty dish combines the sweet and tangy flavors of teriyaki and pineapple with juicy chicken tenderloins. You’ll love how easy it is to make.

Start by marinating the chicken in a homemade teriyaki sauce. Mix soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger, and garlic for a flavorful base.

While the chicken marinates, prepare the pineapple. You can use fresh or canned chunks, depending on what’s available.

Cook the chicken in a skillet or bake it in the oven until it’s golden brown. Add the pineapple chunks during the last few minutes of cooking.

Finish by glazing the chicken with extra teriyaki sauce. The result is a delicious meal that’s both sweet and savory.

16. Ranch Seasoned Chicken Tenderloins

Ranch seasoning adds a zesty flavor to chicken tenderloins. You can make this dish easily at home.

Start by coating the tenders in ranch dressing mix.

Next, dip them in a mixture of egg and milk. Then roll them in breadcrumbs for a crispy exterior. You can bake or fry these tenders.

For baking, preheat your oven to 375°F. Place the coated tenders on a greased baking sheet. Cook for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

If you prefer frying, heat oil in a skillet. Cook the tenders for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown. Serve with extra ranch dressing for dipping.

17. Ginger Soy Chicken Tenderloins

You can make tasty ginger soy chicken tenderloins in just a few steps. Start by mixing soy sauce, grated ginger, minced garlic, and a bit of honey in a bowl.

Put the chicken tenderloins in this mix and let them sit for 30 minutes. This lets the flavors soak into the meat.

Cook the tenderloins in a hot pan for 3-4 minutes on each side. They’ll turn golden brown and get nice and juicy.

Serve your ginger soy chicken tenderloins hot with some rice or veggies on the side. It’s a quick and yummy meal you can make any night of the week.

18. Rosemary Lemon Chicken Tenderloins

Rosemary lemon chicken tenderloins are a quick and tasty meal option. They combine zesty citrus flavors with aromatic herbs for a delicious dish.

To make them, marinate the chicken in lemon juice, rosemary, and olive oil. This infuses the meat with flavor. You can grill or pan-fry the tenderloins for about 3-4 minutes per side.

For extra flavor, add sliced lemons and fresh rosemary sprigs while cooking. The heat releases their oils, enhancing the dish’s aroma and taste.

Serve these tenderloins with roasted potatoes or a fresh salad for a complete meal. They’re perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

19. Sweet Chili Lime Chicken Tenderloins

These chicken tenderloins pack a flavorful punch. Mix chili sauce, orange marmalade, soy sauce, and lime juice in a bowl. Add dried onion, garlic, salt, and pepper to the mix.

Preheat your oven to 425°F. Place the chicken tenders in a baking pan. Pour the sauce over them, making sure they’re well-coated.

Bake the tenders for about 20 minutes.

The result is juicy chicken with a sweet and tangy glaze. The lime adds a zesty kick, while the chili brings a gentle heat.

Serve these tenders with rice or a fresh salad. They’re great for a quick weeknight dinner or as an appetizer for parties.

20. Mexican Spiced Chicken Tenderloins

Spice up your dinner with Mexican-inspired chicken tenderloins.

Start by mixing cumin, garlic powder, paprika, oregano, and chili flakes in a bowl.

Coat your chicken tenders with this flavorful blend.

Add a squeeze of lime juice for extra zest.

Cook the seasoned tenders in a skillet or bake them in the oven until they’re golden and crispy.

Serve with rice, beans, or wrap them in tortillas for a tasty taco night.

For a healthier option, try air frying the tenders. They’ll turn out juicy on the inside and crispy on the outside.

21. Honey Garlic Butter Chicken Tenderloins

This recipe combines sweet honey, savory garlic, and rich butter for a delicious chicken dish.

You’ll need chicken tenderloins, butter, garlic, honey, and a few basic seasonings.

Start by melting butter in a skillet. Add minced garlic and cook briefly.

Pour in honey and stir to combine.

Season the chicken tenders with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet.

Cook the chicken for a few minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.

The honey-garlic butter sauce will coat the tenders, creating a sticky glaze.

Serve these flavorful chicken tenders hot. They pair well with rice or vegetables for a quick and tasty meal.

22. Grilled Cajun Chicken Tenderloins

Get ready for a flavor-packed meal with grilled Cajun chicken tenderloins.

Start by mixing Cajun seasoning with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Coat the chicken tenderloins in this spice blend.

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Brush the grates with oil to prevent sticking.

Grill the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until cooked through.

For extra zest, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the grilled tenderloins before serving.

Pair these spicy, smoky tenderloins with grilled vegetables for a quick and tasty dinner.

23. Sesame Chicken Tenderloins

Sesame chicken tenderloins offer a tasty twist on classic chicken dishes. You’ll love the crispy coating and nutty flavor.

To make them, coat chicken tenders in a mix of sesame seeds, panko breadcrumbs, and seasonings.

Bake them in a 400°F oven for about 10 minutes until golden brown.

For extra flavor, try adding soy sauce to the egg wash before breading.

You can also whip up a quick sesame sauce to drizzle over the cooked tenders.

These tenderloins are versatile. Serve them as an appetizer, main dish, or even in salads. They’re sure to be a hit with both kids and adults.

24. Parmesan Crusted Chicken Tenderloins

Parmesan crusted chicken tenderloins are a tasty twist on classic chicken tenders. You’ll love the crispy, cheesy coating that adds extra flavor to each bite.

To make them, coat chicken tenders in a mixture of flour, Italian seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.

Then dip them in beaten egg and roll in a blend of grated Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs.

Bake the coated tenders in a hot oven until golden brown and cooked through.

The high temperature helps create a crunchy exterior while keeping the inside juicy.

Serve these Parmesan crusted tenders with marinara sauce for dipping or slice them to top a salad.

They’re perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as an appetizer for gatherings.

25. Soy Glazed Chicken Tenderloins

Soy glazed chicken tenderloins are a tasty and easy meal. You’ll love the sweet and savory flavor of this dish.

Start by marinating the tenderloins in a mix of soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger. Let them sit for about an hour to soak up the flavors.

Heat a pan over medium-high heat.

Cook the chicken for a few minutes on each side until golden brown.

Pour the leftover marinade into the pan. Let it bubble and reduce to create a sticky glaze.

Keep turning the chicken to coat it evenly.

Serve your soy glazed tenderloins hot. They go great with rice or steamed veggies.

26. Honey Soy Garlic Chicken Tenderloins

This tasty dish combines sweet honey, salty soy sauce, and flavorful garlic. You’ll love how quick and easy it is to make.

Start by coating your chicken tenderloins in cornstarch. This helps create a crispy exterior.

Mix honey, soy sauce, and minced garlic in a bowl for the sauce.

Heat oil in a pan over medium-high heat.

Cook the chicken until golden brown on both sides.

Pour the honey soy garlic sauce over the tenderloins.

Let the sauce simmer and thicken, coating the chicken. It only takes about 5 minutes. The result is juicy chicken with a sticky, flavorful glaze.

Serve your honey soy garlic chicken tenderloins over rice or with your favorite veggies. It’s a crowd-pleasing meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights.

Health Benefits of Chicken Tenderloins

Chicken tenderloins are a nutritious and lean protein source. They offer many health benefits and can be a great addition to your diet.

Nutritional Value

Chicken tenderloins are low in calories but high in essential nutrients. A 3-ounce serving contains about 100 calories and less than 2 grams of fat.

These tenders are rich in B vitamins, especially niacin and vitamin B6. These vitamins help your body convert food into energy and support brain function.

Chicken tenderloins also provide minerals like selenium and phosphorus.

Selenium acts as an antioxidant, while phosphorus is crucial for strong bones and teeth.

They’re a good source of iron, which is important for carrying oxygen in your blood. This can help prevent anemia and boost your energy levels.

Protein-Rich Diet

Chicken tenderloins are an excellent source of protein. A 3-ounce serving packs about 20 grams of high-quality protein.

Protein is vital for building and repairing tissues in your body. It helps maintain muscle mass, especially when combined with exercise.

Eating protein-rich foods like chicken tenderloins can help you feel full longer. This may aid in weight management and reduce snacking between meals.

Protein also supports a healthy immune system. It helps your body make antibodies to fight off infections and illnesses.

For athletes and active individuals, the protein in chicken tenderloins can aid in muscle recovery after workouts.

Cooking Techniques

Chicken tenderloins are versatile and can be prepared using various methods. Each technique brings out different flavors and textures in the meat. Here are some key approaches to cooking these tender cuts.

Baking Techniques

Baking chicken tenderloins is easy and hands-off.

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Season the tenderloins with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs or spices.

Place them on the baking sheet, leaving space between each piece.

Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

For crispy baked tenders, dip them in beaten egg and coat with breadcrumbs before baking.

Spray with cooking oil for extra crunch.

Grilling Tips

Grilling adds smoky flavor to chicken tenderloins.

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Clean and oil the grates to prevent sticking.

Marinate the tenderloins for 30 minutes to 2 hours before grilling. This adds flavor and keeps them moist.

Grill for 3-4 minutes per side. Don’t move them too much to get nice grill marks.

Use tongs to flip the tenderloins. Avoid piercing them with a fork, which can cause juices to escape.

Let the grilled tenderloins rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat.

Sautéing Methods

Sautéing is quick and perfect for weeknight meals.

Heat a tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Season the tenderloins and add them to the hot pan.

Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.

Don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook in batches if needed to ensure even browning.

For a pan sauce, remove the cooked tenderloins and add minced garlic, wine, or broth to the skillet.

Scrape up any browned bits and simmer to reduce.

Return the tenderloins to the pan to coat with sauce before serving.

Pairing Chicken Tenderloins with Side Dishes

Chicken tenderloins are versatile and pair well with many side dishes. The right combinations can create a balanced, satisfying meal. Let’s explore some veggie and grain options to serve alongside your chicken.

Vegetable Combinations

Coleslaw is a classic side for chicken tenders. Its crunch complements the tender meat nicely.

You can make a creamy version with mayo or a tangy one with vinegar dressing.

Red cabbage slaw offers a colorful twist. It’s easy to make and adds a pop of color to your plate. The bright purple hue looks great next to golden chicken tenders.

Roasted vegetables are another tasty option. Try broccoli, carrots, or Brussels sprouts.

Toss them with olive oil and seasonings, then roast until crispy.

Sweet potato fries bring color and sweetness to the meal. They’re a fun alternative to regular fries and packed with nutrients. Bake them for a healthier version of this popular side.

Grain Pairings

Mac and cheese is a crowd-pleaser that goes great with chicken tenders. Make it extra creamy with cheddar and parmesan cheese.

Kids and adults alike will love this comforting combo.

Rice dishes work well too. Try a broccoli rice casserole for a hearty side.

It combines veggies and grains in one dish, saving you time in the kitchen.

Quinoa salad is a lighter option. Mix cooked quinoa with chopped vegetables and a simple dressing.

It’s refreshing and adds protein to your meal.

Cornbread is a tasty Southern-style pairing. Its slightly sweet flavor balances out savory chicken tenders.

Serve it warm with a pat of butter for extra richness.