10 Chicken Tenderloin Recipes for Quick and Delicious Meals

January 20, 2025January 20, 2025 Yummy

Chicken tenderloins are a go-to for busy weeknights, offering a quick and satisfying option for dinner. These versatile cuts cook up fast and can take on a range of flavors, making them perfect for any meal. Here’s a collection of ten tasty chicken tenderloin recipes that promise to make your evenings enjoyable and delicious without the fuss.

Honey Mustard Glazed Chicken Tenderloins

Honey mustard glazed chicken tenderloins are a delightful combination of sweet and tangy flavors that create a finger-licking meal perfect for busy weeknights. They are simple to make and only require a few ingredients, making them a go-to recipe for anyone looking for quick and tasty chicken dishes.

This recipe is not just about taste; it’s also about versatility. You can serve these tenderloins with a side salad, rice, or roasted vegetables, making it an easy fit for any meal plan. The honey mustard glaze caramelizes beautifully, adding a golden touch that makes it visually appetizing as well!

Ingredients

1 pound chicken tenderloins
1/4 cup honey
1/4 cup Dijon mustard
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Place the chicken tenderloins in a baking dish and pour the honey mustard mixture over them, ensuring they are well coated.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and has an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Spicy Cajun Chicken Tenderloins

Spicy Cajun Chicken Tenderloins are a fantastic way to bring bold flavors to your dinner table. These tender, juicy pieces of chicken are coated in a zesty Cajun spice blend, making them perfect for those who love a bit of heat. The recipe is not only simple but also quick, taking less than 30 minutes from start to finish.

Whether served with rice, in a salad, or on their own, these chicken tenderloins are sure to impress. They deliver a delightful kick that pairs well with a variety of sides, making them a versatile choice for any meal. Give this recipe a try for a delicious weeknight dinner!

Ingredients

1 pound chicken tenderloins
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine olive oil, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken tenderloins and coat them well. Let them marinate for about 10-15 minutes.
Cook the Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken tenderloins and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and golden brown.
Garnish and Serve: Once cooked, remove the tenderloins from the skillet and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot with your favorite sides!

Italian Herb Chicken Tenderloins

Italian Herb Chicken Tenderloins are a delightful dish that brings the flavor of Italy right to your dinner table. These tenderloins are marinated in a mix of fresh herbs, garlic, and a splash of lemon, resulting in a juicy and aromatic meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick yet delicious. The combination of herbs gives the chicken a fresh taste, while the cooking method ensures each bite is tender and flavorful. Serve it alongside a simple salad or over pasta for a complete meal.

Ingredients

1 pound chicken tenderloins
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Juice of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix olive oil, garlic, basil, parsley, oregano, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken tenderloins and coat them well. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
Preheat the Grill or Pan: Heat your grill or a skillet over medium-high heat.
Cook the Tenderloins: Place the marinated chicken on the grill or skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the chicken is golden brown.
Serve: Remove from the heat and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy with your favorite sides!

Lemon Garlic Chicken Tenderloins

Lemon garlic chicken tenderloins are a quick and delightful option for busy weeknights. The bright, zesty flavor of lemon paired with the savory notes of garlic makes for a dish that’s both refreshing and satisfying.

This recipe is simple to prepare, requiring just a few ingredients and minimal cooking time, making it a perfect choice for a speedy meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Pair these tenderloins with your favorite veggies or a light salad for a complete meal.

Ingredients

1 pound chicken tenderloins
3 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
Juice of 2 lemons
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken tenderloins and toss to coat. Let marinate for at least 20 minutes.
Preheat the Pan: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a bit of olive oil if needed.
Cook the Chicken: Add the marinated chicken to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve with lemon wedges.

Crispy Parmesan Chicken Tenderloins

Crispy Parmesan Chicken Tenderloins are a delightful dish that brings together the crunch of a golden-brown coating and the savory taste of parmesan cheese. These tenderloins are quick to prepare, making them perfect for weeknight dinners or a casual gathering. The combination of crispy texture and rich flavors makes them a favorite for both kids and adults alike.

This recipe is not only simple but also requires minimal ingredients, making it easy to whip up in no time. Serve these tender, cheesy bites with your favorite dipping sauce, and you’re sure to impress everyone at the table!

Ingredients

1 pound chicken tenderloins
1 cup grated parmesan cheese
1 cup breadcrumbs
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 large eggs
2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a bowl, mix the parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs until well combined.
Dip each chicken tenderloin into the egg mixture, then coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture.
Place the coated tenderloins on the baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden and crispy.
Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce and enjoy!

Teriyaki Chicken Tenderloins with Rice

A delicious plate of Teriyaki Chicken Tenderloins served over rice, garnished with sesame seeds and green onions.

Teriyaki Chicken Tenderloins with Rice is a delightful dish that balances sweet and savory flavors perfectly. The tender chicken is coated in a rich teriyaki sauce, making it a family favorite. Plus, it’s an easy recipe to whip up on a busy weeknight!

This meal is not only quick to prepare but also satisfying. Pair it with fluffy rice and you have a wholesome dish that everyone will love. It’s a great way to bring the taste of Asian cuisine to your dinner table in no time!

Ingredients

1 lb chicken tenderloins
1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon honey (optional)
2 cups cooked rice
Sesame seeds for garnish
Chopped green onions for garnish
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the chicken tenderloins, teriyaki sauce, and honey (if using). Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.
Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked and golden brown.
Prepare the Rice: While the chicken is cooking, prepare the rice according to package instructions.
Serve: Once the chicken is done, plate it over the cooked rice. Drizzle any remaining teriyaki sauce from the skillet over the top.
Garnish: Sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped green onions on top before serving.

BBQ Chicken Tenderloin Sliders

BBQ Chicken Tenderloin Sliders are a delicious and easy-to-make meal perfect for any occasion. These sliders feature juicy chicken tenderloins smothered in tangy barbecue sauce, topped with cool, crunchy coleslaw, all nestled in soft slider buns. They’re not just tasty; they’re incredibly simple to whip up, making them a great choice for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with friends.

The combination of smoky BBQ flavor and fresh coleslaw creates a delightful contrast that everyone will love. Plus, these sliders are customizable, so you can add your favorite toppings to make them even more special!

Ingredients

1 lb chicken tenderloins
1 cup BBQ sauce
1 cup coleslaw mix
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon sugar
Salt and pepper to taste
8 slider buns
Optional: pickles, red onion for topping

Instructions

Preheat your grill or skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken tenderloins with salt and pepper.
Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked. Brush with BBQ sauce during the last few minutes of cooking.
While the chicken is cooking, prepare the coleslaw by mixing the coleslaw mix, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
Once the chicken is done, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Assemble the sliders by placing a piece of chicken on each bun, topping with coleslaw, and adding any additional toppings you like.
Serve immediately and enjoy your tasty BBQ Chicken Tenderloin Sliders!

Stuffed Chicken Tenderloins with Spinach and Cheese

Get ready to enjoy a dish that’s as tasty as it is simple to make! Stuffed chicken tenderloins filled with creamy spinach and cheese offer a delightful combo of flavors that everyone will love. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner as it requires minimal prep time but delivers a gourmet feel.

With tender chicken and a rich filling, this meal is satisfying and nutritious. It’s a great way to sneak in some greens, making it ideal for families. Let’s jump into the ingredients and instructions to create this delicious dish!

Ingredients

4 chicken tenderloins
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon paprika (optional)

Instructions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a bowl, mix together chopped spinach, cream cheese, mozzarella, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Take each chicken tenderloin and create a pocket by slicing it horizontally, being careful not to cut all the way through.
Stuff each tenderloin with the spinach mixture, securing the opening with toothpicks if necessary.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sear the stuffed tenderloins for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
Transfer the seared tenderloins to a baking dish and sprinkle with paprika if desired.
Bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear.
Let rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Mediterranean Chicken Tenderloins with Quinoa

Grilled Chicken Tenderloins served with Quinoa, cherry tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese.

This Mediterranean chicken tenderloin recipe is a fresh and vibrant dish that brings together the juicy flavors of chicken with the nutty texture of quinoa. It’s simple to prepare and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, yet tasty enough to impress guests on special occasions.

The combination of grilled chicken, ripe cherry tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese creates a colorful plate that’s not only pleasing to the eye but also rich in flavor. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy healthy ingredients without sacrificing taste, making it a go-to for busy families.

Ingredients

1 pound chicken tenderloins
1 cup quinoa
2 cups chicken broth or water
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup black olives, pitted and halved
1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Quinoa: Rinse the quinoa under cold water. In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa and chicken broth (or water). Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes until the quinoa is fluffy and liquid is absorbed.
Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix olive oil, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken tenderloins and coat evenly. Let marinate for about 15 minutes.
Grill the Chicken: Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium heat. Cook the marinated chicken tenderloins for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are cooked through and have nice grill marks.
Assemble the Dish: Fluff the cooked quinoa with a fork and place it on a serving plate. Arrange the grilled chicken on top, then sprinkle with cherry tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese.
Garnish and Serve: Finish with fresh parsley and drizzle with a bit more olive oil if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

Coconut Curry Chicken Tenderloins

Coconut Curry Chicken Tenderloins are a delicious and easy way to enjoy a flavorful meal any night of the week. The combination of tender chicken and creamy coconut milk creates a rich and comforting dish that’s packed with aromatic spices. Perfect for those busy evenings, this recipe comes together quickly and is sure to delight everyone at the table.

This dish pairs beautifully with rice, allowing the sauce to soak into each grain, enhancing the overall flavor. You’ll love how simple it is to make, and the vibrant colors will make it a hit at mealtime!

Ingredients

1 pound chicken tenderloins
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon ginger, grated
2 tablespoons curry powder
1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
1 cup chicken broth
1 tablespoon soy sauce
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish
Cooked rice for serving

Instructions

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
Stir in the garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant. Add curry powder and mix well.
Add the chicken tenderloins to the skillet, cooking until they are browned on both sides, around 5-6 minutes.
Pour in the coconut milk and chicken broth, then stir in soy sauce. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve over cooked rice, garnished with fresh cilantro.