15 Chicken Tenderloin Recipes Perfect for Any Meal

Chicken tenderloins are a versatile and tasty dinner option that can please everyone at the table. This collection of chicken tenderloin recipes offers easy and quick meals perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend cooking. Whether you’re in the mood for something crispy, flavorful, or comforting, there are plenty of ideas to inspire your next meal.

Cooking with chicken tenderloins allows you to experiment with different herbs, spices, and cooking methods. You can bake, grill, or sauté these tender cuts to create delicious dishes that are both satisfying and healthy. These recipes are not just simple to make, but also packed with flavor to keep your family coming back for more.

1) Baked Parmesan Chicken Tenderloins

Baked Parmesan chicken tenderloins are a simple and tasty meal. They combine the flavors of chicken and cheese, creating a dish that everyone will love. You can prepare this recipe quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

To start, gather your ingredients. You’ll need chicken tenderloins, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, and a few seasonings. A light spray of cooking oil helps create a crispy outside when baked.

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Arrange the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 12-15 minutes or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.

Ingredients

• 1 pound (450 g) chicken tenderloins
• 1 cup (100 g) grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup (100 g) breadcrumbs
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Cooking oil spray

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning in a bowl.
3. Coat chicken tenderloins with the breadcrumb mixture.
4. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
5. Spray with cooking oil.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown.

2) Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Tenders

Air fryer buffalo chicken tenders are a quick and tasty meal. They are crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, making them a favorite for everyone. With just a few simple ingredients, you can enjoy this delicious dish in about 15 minutes.

To make these tenders, you’ll need chicken tenderloins, buffalo sauce, and a few seasonings. It’s a great option if you’re looking for a lighter version of buffalo wings.

Ingredients

• 1 pound chicken tenderloins
• 1 cup buffalo sauce
• 1 cup flour
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (204°C).
2. In a bowl, mix flour, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each chicken tender into the buffalo sauce, then coat with the flour mixture.
4. Place the coated tenders in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
5. Cook for 12-15 minutes or until the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). Enjoy!

3) Crispy Lemon Garlic Chicken Tenderloins

For a tasty and easy meal, try making Crispy Lemon Garlic Chicken Tenderloins. This dish combines the bright flavors of lemon and garlic with crunchy breading. It’s perfect for a quick dinner or as a snack.

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). You’ll want a nice crispy texture, so use a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Coat your tenderloins in a mix of panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese for extra crunch. Add lemon juice and garlic to the egg mixture for flavor.

After baking for about 15-20 minutes, your chicken will be golden brown and delicious. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce for an extra treat.

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450 g) chicken tenderloins
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 eggs
• 1 lemon (juice and zest)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. In a bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
4. In another bowl, whisk eggs, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper.
5. Dip chicken tenderloins into the egg mixture, then coat with the breadcrumb mix.
6. Place the coated tenderloins on the baking sheet.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
8. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce.

4) Sriracha Honey Glazed Chicken Tenders

Sriracha honey glazed chicken tenders are a tasty blend of sweet and spicy flavors. You’ll enjoy making these quick and easy tenders for dinner. They are perfect for a weeknight meal or a fun gathering.

To make this dish, you can simply mix honey and Sriracha sauce for a delicious glaze. Marinating the chicken tenderloins in this mixture will add great flavor. Once cooked, the chicken tenders have a nice crispy texture.

Ingredients

• 1 pound chicken tenderloins
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup Sriracha sauce
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix honey, Sriracha, and soy sauce.
3. Marinate the chicken tenders in the mixture for at least 30 minutes.
4. Arrange the tenderloins on a baking sheet.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until cooked through.
6. Serve warm and enjoy!

5) Pesto Grilled Chicken Tenderloins

Pesto grilled chicken tenderloins are a quick and tasty meal. The fresh flavors of basil and garlic make these tenderloins special. You can serve them with a side salad or some rice for a complete dinner.

To start, combine pesto and lemon juice in a bowl. Toss your chicken tenderloins in the mixture until they’re well coated. Then, grill them for about 5 to 6 minutes, flipping a few times until they’re fully cooked.

This dish is not only delicious but also easy to prepare. You’ll enjoy the vibrant flavors in every bite.

Ingredients

• 1 pound chicken tenderloins
• 1/4 cup pesto
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. In a bowl, mix pesto and lemon juice.
2. Add chicken tenderloins and toss to coat.
3. Preheat the grill to medium heat (about 350°F or 175°C).
4. Grill the chicken for 5 to 6 minutes, turning until cooked through.

6) Classic Fried Chicken Fingers

Classic fried chicken fingers are a favorite for many. They’re crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, making them perfect for dipping.

To start, you will need boneless, skinless chicken tenderloins. The process is simple. First, dip the chicken in a buttermilk and egg mixture. Then, coat it in seasoned flour.

Heat oil in a frying pan to about 350°F (175°C). Fry the chicken for about 6 minutes, or until it’s golden brown.

Serve your chicken fingers with your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy them with family or friends for a delicious meal!

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken tenderloins
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 large egg
• 1 cup seasoned flour
• Oil for frying

Cooking Instructions

1. In a bowl, whisk together buttermilk and egg.
2. Dip chicken tenderloins in the mixture.
3. Coat in seasoned flour.
4. Heat oil to 350°F (175°C).
5. Fry chicken for about 6 minutes until golden brown.

7) Almond Crusted Chicken Tenders

Almond crusted chicken tenders are a delicious and healthier twist on the classic dish. They are perfect for a quick dinner or a fun snack. The crunchy almond coating gives them a nice nutty flavor.

To make these tenders, you’ll start by preparing three bowls. One will have almond flour, the second will have beaten eggs, and the third will mix ground almonds with spices like garlic powder and onion powder.

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Dip each chicken tender in the egg, then coat it in the almond mixture, making sure it’s well covered.

Arrange the coated tenders on your baking sheet and lightly spray them with olive oil for extra crispiness. Bake for about 20 minutes, or until they are golden brown.

Ingredients

• Chicken tenderloins
• Almond flour
• Beaten eggs
• Ground almonds
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare three bowls: one for almond flour, one for beaten eggs, and one for the ground almond mixture.
3. Dip each chicken tender in the egg, then coat it with the almond mixture.
4. Place the coated tenders on a lined baking sheet.
5. Lightly spray the tops with olive oil.
6. Bake for 20 minutes, or until golden brown.

8) Barbecue Ranch Chicken Tenderloins

Barbecue ranch chicken tenderloins are a tasty and easy option for dinner. The combination of barbecue sauce and ranch seasoning gives them a flavorful twist that you’ll love.

To prepare, just coat the chicken tenderloins with a mix of your favorite barbecue sauce and ranch seasoning. This simple step makes a big difference in taste.

Bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes until they are cooked through. Serve these tenderloins with veggies or your favorite side dish for a complete meal.

Ingredients

• 1 pound chicken tenderloins
• 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
• 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
• Olive oil (optional)

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Coat the chicken tenderloins with barbecue sauce and ranch seasoning.
3. Place them on a baking sheet.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes until cooked through.
5. Enjoy your meal!

9) Spicy Paprika Chicken Tenderloins

Spicy paprika chicken tenderloins are a tasty option for any meal. They are full of flavor and easy to prepare. The combination of spices makes them irresistible.

To start, you’ll need chicken tenderloins and a blend of spices. This includes smoked paprika, garlic powder, and a bit of cayenne for heat.

You can grill them outdoors or cook them on the stove. Cook until they are golden brown. This usually takes about 4-5 minutes per side over medium-high heat (around 375°F or 190°C).

The result is juicy chicken with a nice kick, perfect for dinner or a BBQ.

Ingredients

• 1 pound chicken tenderloins
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Pat the chicken tenderloins dry with paper towels.
2. In a bowl, mix the olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
3. Toss the chicken tenderloins in the spice mixture until well-coated.
4. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Cook the tenderloins for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown.

10) Honey Mustard Glazed Tenders

Honey mustard glazed tenders are perfect for a delicious meal. The sweet and tangy flavor makes them a family favorite. You’ll enjoy how quick and easy they are to prepare.

For this dish, you need chicken tenderloins, honey, mustard, and seasonings. The marinade is simple yet tasty. It enhances the chicken’s natural flavor and keeps it juicy.

To cook, simply grill or bake the tenderloins. Aim for a temperature of 375°F (190°C) until they’re fully cooked. The glaze adds a beautiful shine and rich taste.

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450 g) chicken tenderloins
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons mustard (Dijon or yellow)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your grill or oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix honey and mustard.
3. Coat the chicken tenderloins with the honey mustard mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Grill or bake for 20-25 minutes until cooked through.

11) Herb-Crusted Chicken Tenders

Herb-crusted chicken tenders are a tasty way to enjoy a juicy meal. You’ll love the blend of fresh herbs that adds flavor and excitement to each bite.

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Combine herbs like parsley, oregano, and thyme with garlic powder, salt, and pepper for a delicious coating.

First, dip each chicken tender in olive oil. Then roll it in the herb mix until it’s nicely coated. Place the tenders on a baking sheet and bake for about 15-20 minutes.

Make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before serving. Enjoy your flavorful and crispy chicken tenders!

Ingredients

• Chicken tenderloins
• Olive oil
• Fresh parsley
• Fresh oregano
• Fresh thyme
• Garlic powder
• Salt
• Pepper

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Mix herbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
3. Dip chicken tenders in olive oil.
4. Roll tenders in the herb mixture.
5. Place on a baking sheet.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes.
7. Check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

12) Coconut Crusted Chicken Tenderloins

Coconut crusted chicken tenderloins are a tasty and fun dish. The sweet coconut adds a unique flavor that pairs nicely with the tender chicken. You can bake or fry these for a crunchy coating.

To make them, you’ll need a few simple ingredients. Set up a breading station with flour, eggs, and coconut flakes. You’ll make each tenderloin crispy by coating it in this mixture.

These tenderloins are perfect for a quick dinner or a snack. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce for extra yum.

Ingredients

• 1 pound chicken tenderloins
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 eggs
• 1 cup coconut flakes
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Set up three bowls: one for flour, one for beaten eggs, and one for coconut flakes mixed with panko.
3. Coat each chicken tenderloin in flour first, then dip it in the egg, and finally coat it with the coconut mixture.
4. Place the tenderloins on a baking sheet.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. Enjoy!

13) Sesame Soy Chicken Tender Stir-Fry

This Sesame Soy Chicken Tender Stir-Fry is a simple and delicious dish. You will love the mix of tender chicken and vibrant vegetables. It’s quick to make and perfect for a weeknight dinner.

To start, you will need chicken tenderloins, soy sauce, sesame oil, and some colorful veggies. The sesame seeds add a nice crunch at the end.

You can serve it over rice or noodles for a complete meal. The flavors blend well, making every bite a delight.

Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken tenderloins, sliced
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 bell pepper, sliced
• 2 tbsp sesame seeds

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add sesame oil and the chicken tenderloins. Cook for 3-4 minutes until browned.
3. Add the broccoli and bell pepper. Stir-fry for 4-5 minutes.
4. Pour in soy sauce and sprinkle sesame seeds. Cook for 2 more minutes.
5. Serve hot over rice or noodles.

14) Garlic Butter Chicken Tenderloins

Garlic butter chicken tenderloins are a delicious choice for a quick meal. They are juicy and tender, making them a family favorite. Plus, they come together in about 30 minutes.

To start, gather your ingredients. The key flavors come from garlic and butter, giving the chicken a rich taste. You can serve them with a side of vegetables or over rice for a complete dinner.

Ingredients

• 1 pound chicken tenderloins
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat a skillet over medium heat.
2. Melt the butter in the skillet.
3. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Season the chicken tenderloins with salt and pepper.
5. Cook the chicken for 7-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until it reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, before serving.

15) Maple Chili Chicken Tenders

Maple Chili Chicken Tenders offer a tasty blend of sweet and spicy flavors. You can make these tender and juicy chicken pieces in no time. They are great for family dinners or game day snacks.

To start, you will need to prepare a marinade. A mix of maple syrup, chili garlic sauce, and spices gives these tenders their unique flavor. Let the chicken soak in the marinade for at least 30 minutes.

Next, coat the chicken in flour for a crispy texture. Fry or bake the tenders until golden brown and cooked through. You can enjoy them plain or with a dipping sauce.

Ingredients

• 1 pound (450g) chicken tenderloins
• 1/4 cup (60ml) maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons chili garlic sauce
• 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. In a bowl, mix maple syrup and chili garlic sauce.

2. Marinate chicken tenderloins for 30 minutes.

3. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) or heat oil in a pan.

4. Coat the marinated chicken in flour.

5. Then, bake the chicken for 15-20 minutes or fry until golden and cooked through.