Hey there fellow foodies! Are you tired of making the same old boring chicken dishes? Fear not, because today we’re going to change that! Say hello to 10 deliciously baked chicken tenderloin recipes that will make your taste buds dance with joy. Whether you’re a busy parent who needs to whip up a quick meal or a cooking enthusiast looking to expand your culinary skills, there’s something here for everyone.
Chicken tenderloins are a lean and versatile cut of meat that can be transformed into a range of delicious dishes with some simple ingredients and techniques. From tangy marinades to crispy coatings, the possibilities are endless. So, let’s ditch the boring plain chicken and get started on these finger-licking recipes!
Baked Chicken Tenderloin Recipes
Health Benefits of Baked Chicken Tenderloin
Baked chicken tenderloin is a popular dish because of its flavor and nutrition content. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it’s also a healthy protein option that can be utilized in a diversity of recipes. Here are some of the health benefits of baked chicken tenderloin:
Low in Fat and Calories
One of the main benefits of baked chicken tenderloin is that it’s low in fat and calories. This is because cooking chicken in the oven allows most of the fat to slip off. As a result, you can enjoy a tasty meal that’s not loaded with extra fat, calories, and unwanted cholesterol. Additionally, if you’re attempting to maintain a healthy weight or lose weight, baked chicken tenderloin is a great option to add to your meal plan.
Rich in Protein
Another benefit of baked chicken tenderloin is that it’s rich in protein. Protein is an essential nutrient that your body requires to build and repair tissues. It also aids in the creation of enzymes and hormones that are essential for hormonal and metabolic functions. Moreover, protein assists in preserving and building muscle tissue, which is particularly essential for those who are active.
Good Source of Various Vitamins and Minerals
Chicken is a good source of various vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B6, niacin, phosphorus, and selenium. Vitamin B6 is essential for brain function and helps the body generate serotonin, which is a neurotransmitter that controls mood. Niacin aids in the function of the digestive system, skin, and nerves. Furthermore, phosphorus assists in bone and teeth development, while selenium is essential for a healthy immune and thyroid system.
Recipes
Herbed Baked Chicken Tenderloin
For this recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound chicken tenderloins
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon dried basil
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt
- 1/2 tablespoon black pepper
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F.
- In a small mixing bowl, mix together the oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
- Place chicken tenderloins onto a baking dish. Using a brush, brush olive oil onto the chicken, then sprinkle the herb mixture on top of the chicken.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Remove from oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenderloin
For this recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound chicken tenderloins
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon dried basil
- 1 tablespoon dried parsley
- 1/2 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1/4 tablespoon black pepper
- 1 egg white
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F.
- In a shallow bowl, mix together the parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, basil, parsley, garlic powder, and black pepper.
- In another bowl, beat the egg white.
- Dip each chicken tenderloin into the egg white mixture, then into the breadcrumb mixture, making sure to coat both sides.
- Place the coated chicken tenderloins onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 16-18 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F.
- Remove from oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Whether you choose Herbed Baked Chicken Tenderloin or Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenderloin, these dishes are not only delicious but they also provide plenty of health benefits. These recipes are a great introduction to the world of baked chicken tenderloin, and with a little creativity, you can create many more healthy and tasty dishes featuring this versatile ingredient.
Basic Baked Chicken Tenderloin Recipe
If you’re looking for a simple and easy way to prepare chicken tenderloins, then you have come to the right recipe. This basic baked chicken tenderloin recipe requires only a few ingredients and little preparation time. In no time, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to serve.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken tenderloins
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place chicken tenderloins on a baking sheet.
- Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
To check if the chicken is cooked through, cut into the thickest part of a tenderloin. If the juice runs clear, it’s done. If it’s still pink, put it back in the oven for another 5 minutes and recheck.
Variations
If you want to add more flavor to your basic baked chicken tenderloin recipe, there are several variations you can try.
Seasoning blends
You can add seasoning blends to your chicken tenderloins to give it a different taste. Some popular blends include:
- Garlic powder
- Paprika
- Italian seasoning
To add the seasoning, simply sprinkle it over the chicken before you drizzle it with olive oil and sprinkle with salt.
Barbecue sauce
If you love barbecue sauce, brush some over your chicken tenderloins before baking. Let the chicken cook in the oven for about 10 minutes, then brush on more sauce. Return the chicken to the oven and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes.
Honey mustard
Honey mustard is also a great addition to baked chicken tenderloins. To make it, mix together honey, mustard, and a little bit of olive oil. Brush the mixture onto your chicken before baking, and enjoy the sweet tangy taste.
With these variations, you can switch up the flavors of your basic baked chicken tenderloin recipe, so you can enjoy a different dish every time.
One-Pan Baked Chicken Tenderloin and Veggies
Baking chicken tenderloin is a fantastic way to prepare a quick and healthy meal. One of the most straightforward and delicious recipes to try is baking chicken tenderloin and veggies on one pan. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you don’t have much time to spend in the kitchen. Additionally, it’s a great recipe for picky eaters because it allows for endless combinations of vegetables and seasonings to suit different tastes. Let’s get started!
Ingredients
To make this dish, all you need are a few simple ingredients:
- Chicken tenderloins
- Vegetables of your choice (such as broccoli, carrots, potatoes)
- Olive oil
- Salt
- Pepper
Instructions
Follow these easy steps to prepare this juicy and savory dish:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F
- Place chicken tenderloins on one side of a baking sheet
- Add veggies to the other side of the baking sheet
- Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and veggies are tender
That’s it! You can serve the dish immediately, or make it ahead of time and store it in containers for meal prepping. This recipe is also a perfect option for dinner parties, as it can easily be multiplied to feed a crowd.
Variations
If you want to switch up the flavors, try these ideas:
- Try different combinations of vegetables, such as zucchini, squash, onions, or bell peppers
- Swap the seasoning for a different taste (such as cumin, chili powder, or rosemary)
- Add some grated parmesan cheese on top of the veggies
- Combine everything with cooked pasta or quinoa for a heartier meal
As you can see, the possibilities are endless when it comes to baking chicken tenderloin and veggies. Have fun experimenting with different flavors and combinations, and enjoy the healthy and delicious results!
Baked Chicken Tenderloin Stir-Fry
If you’re looking for a healthy and delicious meal, a baked chicken tenderloin stir-fry might be the perfect choice. This recipe is not only easy to make, but it’s also packed with proteins, vitamins, and fiber. Stir-fry is a classic dish that allows you to experiment with different combinations of veggies and proteins, making it the perfect canvas for your culinary skills.
Ingredients
- 1 pound of chicken tenderloins
- 2-3 cups of fresh vegetables, such as bell peppers, onions, and broccoli
- 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon of honey
- 3-4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F
- Cut the chicken tenderloins into small, bite-sized pieces
- Place the chicken on a rimmed baking sheet and bake in the oven for 10-12 minutes, or until fully cooked
- While the chicken is cooking, prepare the vegetables by washing and cutting them into small pieces
- In a large skillet or wok, heat the sesame oil over medium-high heat
- Add the vegetables and stir-fry until they are tender-crisp (around 5-7 minutes)
- Remove the chicken from the oven and add it to the skillet with the vegetables
- In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, honey, and minced garlic
- Pour the mixture over the chicken and vegetables and stir-fry until the sauce is thickened and coats the chicken and vegetables.
- Serve hot and enjoy your fresh, healthy meal!
Variations
If you want to switch things up, there are several variations to this recipe that you can try:
- Switch up the sauce. Instead of soy sauce and honey, try teriyaki sauce, hoisin sauce, or even a spicy peanut sauce
- Experiment with different veggies. Carrots, mushrooms, snow peas, and snap peas are all great options that add crunch and nutrition to this stir-fry
- Add a protein. If you’re not a fan of chicken, try substituting beef, shrimp, or tofu instead
Whichever variation you choose, this baked chicken tenderloin stir-fry is sure to be a crowd-pleaser that will become a staple in your recipe collection.
Closing Thoughts
We hope you’ve enjoyed reading through these 10 mouth-watering baked chicken tenderloin recipes as much as we’ve enjoyed putting them together for you. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, there’s something on this list for everyone. The great thing about these recipes is that they’re not only delicious, but they’re also simple and easy to make. All you need are a few ingredients, an oven, and some free time – and voila! You’ll have a delicious dinner on the table in no time.
We want to thank you for taking the time to read through our article, and we hope you’ll come back to visit us again soon. As we continue to publish more recipes, cooking tips, and food-related articles, we promise to keep you up-to-date with the latest trends and ideas in the culinary world. Until next time, happy cooking, and enjoy those chicken tenderloins!
FAQ
1. Can I use frozen chicken tenderloins for these recipes?
Absolutely. All of these recipes can be made using either fresh or frozen chicken tenderloins. Just be sure to thaw them completely before baking, as this will ensure that they cook evenly.
2. How long do I need to bake the chicken tenderloins for?
The baking time will vary depending on the recipe you’re using. Generally, baked chicken tenderloins will take between 20-30 minutes to cook in a 375-degree oven.
3. Can I marinate the chicken tenderloins overnight?
Yes, marinating the chicken overnight will infuse it with even more flavor. Just be sure to cover the chicken tightly and refrigerate it until you’re ready to cook.
4. Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenderloins?
Yes, you can. However, keep in mind that chicken breasts will take longer to cook and may not be as tender as chicken tenderloins.
5. How long can I store leftover baked chicken tenderloins?
Leftover chicken tenderloins should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
6. Can I freeze baked chicken tenderloins?
Yes, baked chicken tenderloins can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Just be sure to let them cool completely before wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and then placing them in a freezer-safe container.
7. What sides go well with baked chicken tenderloins?
There are numerous sides that would go perfectly with baked chicken tenderloins, including roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, baked sweet potatoes, or a fresh mixed green salad.
8. Can I use different spices and herbs in these recipes?
Absolutely. Feel free to experiment with different spices and herbs to create a flavor profile that suits your taste buds.
9. How can I ensure that my chicken tenderloins are cooked through?
The best way to ensure that your chicken tenderloins are cooked through is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit before it’s safe to eat.
10. Are these recipes kid-friendly?
Yes, these recipes are definitely kid-friendly. In fact, they’re perfect for picky eaters who may not like anything too spicy or complicated. Plus, who doesn’t love chicken tenders?
