a close-up shot of lemon garlic chicken with asparagus on a white plate. the chicken is topped with lemon slices and surrounded by asparagus spears and red cherry tomatoes. the text "8 best chicken tenderloins recipes" and "eat proteins" are visible

Chicken tenderloins are a versatile and popular choice for many meals. They are easy to cook and can be used in a variety of dishes. I have gathered eight delicious chicken tenderloin recipes that are sure to please everyone at your table. These recipes range from quick weeknight dinners to more elaborate dishes perfect for gatherings.

In this article, I will share my top picks that highlight the flavor and tenderness of chicken tenderloins. Each recipe offers unique ingredients and cooking methods, making it easy to find one that suits your taste. Whether you prefer grilling, baking, or sautéing, there is a recipe here for you.

Table of Contents

1. Crispy Baked Chicken Tenderloins

a close-up shot of several golden-brown, crispy baked chicken breasts on a white plate. the chicken is coated in breadcrumbs and appears juicy. the simple dish is presented on a white plate, suggesting a delicious and easy-to-make meal

Crispy baked chicken tenderloins are a delicious dish that I enjoy making. They are easy to prepare and serve as a great meal or snack. These tenderloins are chicken strips that are seasoned and baked until crispy.

To make them, I start by preheating my oven to 400°F (200°C). I then prepare the chicken by cutting it into tenderloin-sized pieces. I season the chicken with salt, pepper, and other spices of my choice.

Next, I dip each piece in a mixture of egg and milk to help the coating stick. After that, I coat the chicken in breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes for extra crunch. Placing the tenderloins on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper helps them cook evenly.

I bake them for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure both sides are golden and crispy. For added flavor, I sometimes sprinkle a bit of paprika or garlic powder before baking.

The result is perfectly crispy chicken tenderloins that are juicy on the inside. It’s a simple, healthy alternative to frying, and they pair well with a variety of dipping sauces.

2. Honey Mustard Chicken Tenders

a close-up shot of honey mustard chicken tenders on a white plate. several golden-brown chicken tenders are coated in a glossy honey mustard sauce and garnished with fresh parsley leaves. the flavorful dish sits on a white plate, which rests on a light-colored cloth and a dark wooden surface

Honey mustard chicken tenders are a delicious twist on a classic dish. The blend of sweet honey and tangy mustard creates a flavorful sauce that perfectly complements tender chicken.

Making these tenders is easy and quick. I enjoy preparing them for a weeknight meal or a casual gathering.

Here’s how I make them:

Start by preheating the oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a bowl, mix 1/4 cup of honey and 1/4 cup of Dijon mustard.

Season 1 pound of chicken tenderloins with salt and pepper.
Dip each tenderloin into the honey mustard mixture.
Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.

These tenders are versatile. I often serve them with a side of veggies or over a salad. The balance of sweet and tangy makes them a family favorite.

3. Buffalo-Style Chicken Tenderloins

a close-up shot of golden-brown chicken tenders, coated in a vibrant orange sauce, possibly buffalo sauce. green celery sticks and a small bowl of creamy dip accompany the chicken on a light gray plate, set against a dark wooden background. the dish appears crispy and flavorful

Buffalo-style chicken tenderloins are a flavorful twist on a classic dish. They feature chicken tenderloins coated in a spicy buffalo sauce, perfect for those who enjoy a bit of heat.

I find these tenderloins easy to make. The preparation requires minimal ingredients and steps.

To make Buffalo-style chicken tenderloins, here is what you need to do:

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Prepare the chicken by seasoning with salt and pepper.
Dredge the tenderloins in flour to coat lightly.
Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat.

Cook the tenderloins for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
Toss the cooked tenderloins in buffalo sauce.
Bake for 10 minutes to let the sauce set.

These tenderloins are great as an appetizer or a main dish. They pair well with celery sticks and blue cheese dressing.

4. Parmesan Crusted Chicken Tenderloins

a close-up shot of crispy baked fish fillets on a blue plate. three golden-brown fish fillets are garnished with lemon wedges, fresh thyme sprigs, and chopped parsley. a small bowl of white sauce is visible in the background, suggesting a light and flavorful seafood dish

Parmesan crusted chicken tenderloins are a simple and delicious dish. The combination of tender chicken and crispy cheese topping makes it a favorite in my home. These tenderloins offer a rich flavor without requiring complicated cooking techniques.

I find this recipe easy to make, even for a weeknight dinner. Here’s how I prepare them:

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a bowl, mix 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1 cup of breadcrumbs, and 1 teaspoon of garlic powder.
Dip each chicken tenderloin in a beaten egg and then coat it in the cheese mixture.

Place the coated tenderloins on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake for 15–20 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the crust is golden brown.

This recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. With just a few ingredients and easy steps, I can serve up a satisfying and flavorful meal. The crunchy Parmesan creates a great texture that pairs well with salads or side dishes.

5. Asian-Glazed Chicken Tenderloins

a close-up shot of honey garlic chicken tenders on a white rectangular plate. several golden-brown chicken tenders are coated in a glossy, dark honey garlic sauce, sprinkled with white sesame seeds and chopped green onions. the flavorful dish sits on a light gray surface with a blurred background

Asian-glazed chicken tenderloins are a flavorful dish that combines savory and sweet elements. The glaze typically includes soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger. This recipe is easy to make and brings great taste to your table.

To prepare this dish, I start by marinating the chicken tenderloins. I mix 1/4 cup soy sauce, 2 tablespoons honey, 2 minced garlic cloves, and 1 teaspoon grated ginger in a bowl. I let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes for better flavor.

Next, I preheat my oven to 400°F (200°C). I coat a baking sheet with non-stick spray and arrange the marinated tenderloins on it. I brush some leftover marinade on top for extra flavor.

I bake the chicken for 20 minutes, turning halfway through for even cooking. To get a nice glaze, I broil the tenderloins for the last 2-3 minutes.

These Asian-glazed chicken tenderloins are perfect for a quick dinner or meal prep. They pair well with rice and steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

6. Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenderloins

a close-up overhead shot of crispy fried chicken tenders on a white rectangular plate. several golden-brown, battered chicken tenders are arranged on the plate and garnished with fresh green parsley leaves. the crunchy texture of the fried chicken is clearly visible, suggesting a delicious and satisfying meal

Buttermilk fried chicken tenderloins are juicy and flavorful. The buttermilk helps to tenderize the meat, making it moist. Cooking them is straightforward and doesn’t require much time.

To make these tenderloins, I start by brining them in buttermilk. I let them soak for at least 20 minutes, but I can go up to 2 hours for better flavor.

Next, I prepare the coating. I mix flour with spices like salt, pepper, and paprika. I then take the tenderloins out of the buttermilk, shake off excess, and coat them in the flour mixture.

After that, I heat oil in a skillet to about 375°F. I add the coated tenderloins to the hot oil. It takes about 8 minutes to fry them, turning once to ensure they cook evenly.

Once golden brown, I remove them from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain excess grease. These tenderloins are perfect for a quick dinner or a tasty snack.

7. Lemon Garlic Chicken Tenderloins

a close-up shot of honey butter lemon chicken with asparagus on a white plate. three golden-brown chicken breasts are drizzled with a glossy sauce and surrounded by vibrant green asparagus spears, halved red cherry tomatoes, and bright yellow lemon wedges. the flavorful dish sits on a light gray surface

Lemon garlic chicken tenderloins are a simple and delicious dish. The tenderloins are marinated with garlic and lemon, giving them a fresh and zesty flavor. This recipe is easy to make, even for beginners.

To prepare, I usually start by gathering my ingredients. I need chicken tenderloins, fresh garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.

Here are the steps I follow:

Marinate: In a bowl, mix 3 tablespoons of olive oil, the juice of 1 lemon, 3 minced garlic cloves, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
Preheat: I preheat my oven to 400°F (200°C).

Bake: Place the marinated tenderloins on a baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
Serve: Once done, I let the chicken rest for a few minutes. Then, I serve it with lemon wedges for extra flavor.

This dish pairs well with vegetables or rice. The bright, tangy taste makes it a favorite in my kitchen.

8. Herb-Marinated Grilled Chicken Tenderloins

a close-up shot of grilled chicken tenders with asparagus and mixed greens on a light blue plate. five golden-brown grilled chicken tenders with visible grill marks are garnished with fresh herbs and served alongside bright green asparagus spears and a small pile of mixed greens. the healthy and flavorful meal sits on a light gray surface

Herb-marinated grilled chicken tenderloins are a simple and flavorful dish. The marinade adds a tasty mix of herbs that enhances the natural flavor of the chicken.

To make this recipe easy, I gather my ingredients first. I need chicken tenderloins, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and fresh herbs like parsley and thyme.

Here are the steps I follow:

In a bowl, I mix 1/4 cup of olive oil, 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, 2 minced garlic cloves, and chopped herbs.
I place the chicken tenderloins in the marinade and let them soak for at least 30 minutes. This adds flavor and keeps the meat juicy.
When ready to cook, I preheat the grill to medium-high heat.

I grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

This dish pairs well with a light salad or grilled vegetables. It’s easy to prepare and great for any occasion.

What Are Chicken Tenderloins?

Chicken tenderloins are a popular cut of meat known for their tenderness and flavor. They come from the breast area and are smaller, making them perfect for various dishes. I find it important to understand their nutritional value and how they differ from regular chicken breasts.

What Is the Nutritional Value of Chicken Tenderloins?

Chicken tenderloins are lean and packed with protein, making them a healthy choice. A 3-ounce serving typically contains about:

Calories: 120–130
Protein: 24 grams

Fat: 1–2 grams
Sodium: 60–70 milligrams

They also provide essential vitamins and minerals, including B vitamins, phosphorus, and selenium. The low-fat content is beneficial for those looking to maintain a healthy diet. Because tenderloins are a part of the breast, they have less marbling, which keeps them lean. Still, they remain juicy when cooked properly.

What Are the Differences Between Chicken Tenderloins and Chicken Breasts?

While chicken tenderloins and chicken breasts both come from the chicken, there are important differences. Tenderloins are the small strips found beneath the breast, often more tender than breast meat. Here are the main distinctions:

Size: Tenderloins are smaller and thinner compared to breasts.
Texture: Tenderloins are more tender and cook faster.

Cooking Methods: Tenderloins are great for quick meals, such as stir-frying or grilling, while breasts can be used in larger dishes or baked.

Understanding these differences helps me choose the right cut for my recipes and cooking methods.

What Are the Best Cooking Techniques for Chicken Tenderloins?

When preparing chicken tenderloins, mastering the right cooking techniques can make all the difference in achieving juicy, flavorful results. I will focus on two popular methods: baking and grilling. Each method offers unique benefits and flavors that can enhance your dish.

How Do You Bake Chicken Tenderloins for Best Results?

Baking chicken tenderloins is a straightforward and effective technique. I preheat my oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure even cooking. Using a baking sheet lined with parchment paper helps prevent sticking.

I often season the tenderloins with salt, pepper, and my favorite herbs, like thyme or rosemary. It’s essential to avoid overcrowding the pan, allowing for better air circulation. Baking for about 20-25 minutes gives the chicken a nice golden color. To ensure it’s cooked through, I check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). For added flavor, I sometimes baste the tenderloins with a little olive oil or lemon juice halfway through cooking.

What Are the Benefits of Grilling Chicken Tenderloins?

Grilling is another fantastic method for cooking chicken tenderloins, bringing out a smoky flavor that’s hard to beat. Before I start, I make sure to marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes. This not only adds flavor but helps keep the meat tender.

I preheat my grill to medium-high heat, about 375°F (190°C). I apply oil to the grates to prevent sticking. Cooking the tenderloins for about 6-8 minutes on each side yields juicy results. I check for the same internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure the chicken is safe to eat. For extra flavor, I sometimes add a bit of barbecue sauce during the last few minutes of grilling for a tasty glaze.

8 Best Chicken Tenderloins Recipes to Satisfy Your Cravings