20 Chicken Tenderloin Recipes That’ll Make Your Taste Buds Dance

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I’ve attached a video for every recipe below from my favorite home cooks.

Chicken Tenderloin Recipes

Chicken tenderloins are a great choice for quick and easy meals. They cook fast and stay juicy, making them perfect for busy weeknights. You can cook chicken tenderloins in many ways, like baking, frying, or grilling. These recipes are simple enough for beginners but tasty enough to impress your family and friends.

You’ll find lots of options to try, from crispy baked tenders to flavorful stir-fries. Many of these dishes can be ready in 30 minutes or less. Whether you want something healthy or indulgent, there’s a chicken tenderloin recipe for you. Get ready to discover some new favorite meals!

Crispy Fried Chicken Tenders

Here’s what you’ll need:

  • 1 pound chicken tenderloins
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 egg
  • 1/4 cup water
  • Vegetable oil for frying

Now, let’s get cooking!

  1. Mix the flour, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.

  2. In another bowl, beat the egg with water.

  3. Dip each chicken tender in the flour mixture, then the egg wash, and back in the flour. This double coating makes them extra crispy!

  4. Heat about 2 inches of oil in a skillet to 375°F.

  5. Fry the tenders for about 4 minutes on each side until golden brown.

  6. Check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

  7. Place the fried tenders on a wire rack to drain excess oil.

Your crispy fried chicken tenders are ready! Serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauce. They’re perfect for a quick dinner or a fun weekend treat. Enjoy your homemade crispy goodness!

Baked Parmesan Chicken Tenders

You’ll need:

  • 1 pound chicken tenderloins
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 egg
  • Cooking spray

Here’s how to make them:

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

  2. Mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl.

  3. Beat the egg in a separate bowl.

  4. Dip each chicken tender in egg, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture.

  5. Place tenders on the baking sheet. Spray both sides with cooking spray.

  6. Bake for 18 minutes, flipping halfway through.

  7. Check that chicken is cooked through. It should reach 165°F (74°C) inside.

Your crispy, golden Parmesan chicken tenders are ready to enjoy!

Buffalo Chicken Tenders

Here’s what you’ll need for these tasty buffalo chicken tenders:

  • 1 pound chicken tenderloins
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 2 eggs
  • 2 tablespoons water
  • 1/4 cup butter, melted
  • 1/3 cup hot sauce

Now let’s make these spicy treats!

  1. Mix the flour, salt, onion powder, and garlic powder in a shallow bowl.

  2. In another bowl, whisk the eggs and water together.

  3. Dip each chicken tender in the flour mixture, then the egg mix, then back in the flour.

  4. Heat some oil in a skillet over medium heat.

  5. Cook the tenders for 4-6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.

  6. While the chicken cooks, mix the melted butter and hot sauce in a bowl.

  7. Once the tenders are done, toss them in the buffalo sauce.

Your buffalo chicken tenders are ready to enjoy! Serve them with some celery sticks and blue cheese dressing for the full buffalo experience.

Honey Mustard Chicken Tenders

You’ll love these tasty chicken tenders with a sweet and tangy honey mustard flavor. Here’s what you need:

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound chicken tenders
  • 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Directions:

  1. Mix the mustard, honey, olive oil, rosemary, salt, and pepper in a bowl.

  2. Put the chicken in a zip-top bag and pour in half the mixture. Save the rest for later.

  3. Let the chicken marinate in the fridge for 2-8 hours.

  4. Heat a pan over medium heat. Cook the tenders for 3-4 minutes per side until done.

  5. Serve your chicken tenders with the extra honey mustard sauce on the side.

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For a crispy version, try this instead:

  1. Dip marinated tenders in breadcrumbs.

  2. Place on a lined baking sheet.

  3. Bake at 450°F for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway.

Your honey mustard chicken tenders are ready to enjoy! They’re perfect for a quick dinner or as an appetizer for your next party.

Garlic Herb Chicken Tenders

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound chicken tenderloins
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried herbs (thyme, rosemary, or oregano)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Directions:

  1. Mix the panko, Parmesan, and dried herbs in a shallow dish.

  2. Season the chicken with salt and pepper.

  3. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.

  4. Dip each tenderloin in the garlic butter, then coat with the panko mixture.

  5. Heat olive oil in the skillet. Cook tenders for 3-4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.

  6. Serve hot and enjoy your tasty garlic herb chicken tenders!

Lemon Pepper Chicken Tenders

You’ll love these zesty lemon pepper chicken tenders! They’re easy to make and packed with flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound chicken tenderloins
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons lemon pepper seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 lemon, sliced

Directions:

  1. Mix the flour, lemon pepper seasoning, and salt in a shallow dish.

  2. Coat each chicken tenderloin in the flour mixture.

  3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

  4. Add chicken tenders to the pan in a single layer.

  5. Cook for 3-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.

  6. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the cooked tenders.

  7. Serve hot with lemon slices on the side.

These tenders are great on their own or sliced up in a salad. You can also make extra and freeze them for quick meals later. Enjoy your tasty lemon pepper chicken tenders!

BBQ Chicken Tenders

Here’s what you’ll need:

  • 1 pound chicken tenderloins
  • 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

Now, let’s get cooking!

  1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 450°F).

  2. In a large bowl, mix the chicken tenders with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, and salt.

  3. Place the seasoned tenders on the grill. Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side.

  4. Brush BBQ sauce on the tenders during the last minute of grilling.

  5. Remove from the grill when the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Your BBQ chicken tenders are ready to enjoy! Serve them hot with extra BBQ sauce on the side.

Tip: For a baked version, preheat your oven to 375°F. Place the seasoned tenders in a greased baking dish. Bake for 20-25 minutes, brushing with BBQ sauce halfway through.

Coconut Chicken Tenders

You’ll need:

  • 1 pound chicken tenders
  • 1 cup shredded coconut
  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 eggs, beaten
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Cooking spray

Here’s how to make these tasty tenders:

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and spray it with cooking spray.

  2. Mix the coconut and panko in a shallow bowl. In another bowl, combine the flour, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Beat the eggs in a third bowl.

  3. Dip each chicken tender in the flour mixture, then the egg, and finally the coconut mixture. Make sure it’s well-coated.

  4. Place the coated tenders on your prepared baking sheet. Give them a quick spray with cooking spray.

  5. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through. They’re done when golden brown and crispy.

Your coconut chicken tenders are ready to serve! They’re great with a sweet chili sauce or honey mustard for dipping.

Cajun Chicken Tenders

Ready to spice up your dinner? Let’s make some tasty Cajun chicken tenders!

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound chicken tenderloins
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 eggs
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • Oil for frying
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Directions:

  1. Mix buttermilk and 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning in a bowl. Add chicken and marinate for 2 hours in the fridge.

  2. Mix flour, remaining Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper in a shallow dish.

  3. In another bowl, whisk eggs and milk together.

  4. Remove chicken from marinade and pat dry.

  5. Dip each tender in flour mixture, then egg wash, then back in flour. Shake off excess.

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

  7. Fry tenders for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.

  8. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.

Enjoy your crispy, spicy Cajun chicken tenders!

Greek Yogurt Chicken Tenders

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound chicken tenderloins
  • 1 cup Greek yogurt
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • Cooking spray

Directions:

  1. Mix yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper in a bowl.

  2. Add chicken to the mixture and coat well. Let it marinate in the fridge for 30 minutes.

  3. Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).

  4. Place a wire rack on a baking sheet and spray with cooking spray.

  5. Put panko breadcrumbs on a plate. Remove chicken from marinade and coat with breadcrumbs.

  6. Arrange chicken on the wire rack. Spray lightly with cooking spray.

  7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through.

  8. Let the tenders cool for a few minutes before serving.

Your Greek yogurt chicken tenders are ready! They’re crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. Enjoy them with your favorite dipping sauce.

Sesame Chicken Tenders

You’ll love these crispy, flavorful sesame chicken tenders! Here’s what you need:

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound chicken tenderloins
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup sesame seeds
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

  1. Mix soy sauce and sesame oil in a bowl. Add chicken and let it marinate for 30 minutes.

  2. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease a baking sheet.

  3. In a shallow dish, combine panko, sesame seeds, salt, and pepper.

  4. Dip each chicken tender in beaten egg, then coat with the panko mixture.

  5. Place tenders on the baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Your sesame chicken tenders are ready when they’re golden brown and crispy! Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce.

For extra crunch, you can drizzle a bit of melted butter over the tenders before baking. Enjoy your homemade, oven-baked sesame chicken tenders!

Chipotle Lime Chicken Tenders

You’ll need:

  • 1 pound chicken tenders
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 limes, juiced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon chipotle powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup crushed tortilla chips

Here’s how to make these tasty tenders:

  1. Mix olive oil, lime juice, cumin, paprika, chipotle powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl.

  2. Add chicken tenders and coat well. Let them marinate for 15 minutes.

  3. In another bowl, combine mayonnaise, Parmesan, and a squeeze of lime juice.

  4. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.

  5. Remove chicken from marinade and grill for about 2 minutes per side until cooked through.

  6. Brush the grilled tenders with the mayo mixture.

  7. Roll the coated tenders in crushed tortilla chips.

  8. Place on a baking sheet and broil for 1-2 minutes until crispy.

Your chipotle lime chicken tenders are ready to serve! They’re perfect for a quick dinner or as a party snack. The zesty lime and smoky chipotle flavors will make your taste buds dance.

Pesto Chicken Tenders

You’ll love these tasty pesto chicken tenders! Here’s what you need:

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound chicken tenders
  • 1/2 cup pesto sauce
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

  2. Mix the pesto and mayo in a bowl.

  3. Dip each chicken tender in the pesto mix, then coat with breadcrumbs.

  4. Place the coated tenders on a baking sheet.

  5. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the tenders.

  6. Bake for 15 minutes, then flip the tenders.

  7. Bake for another 15 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.

  8. Check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

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Enjoy your pesto chicken tenders hot from the oven! They’re great on their own or served over pasta.

Orange Chicken Tenders

You’ll love these tasty orange chicken tenders! They’re crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, with a sweet and tangy orange sauce.

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound chicken tenderloins
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 eggs, beaten
  • 1/2 cup orange juice
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon grated ginger
  • Vegetable oil for frying

Directions:

  1. Coat the chicken in flour, dip in egg, then coat in flour again.

  2. Fry the tenders in hot oil for about 6 minutes until golden and cooked through.

  3. In a saucepan, whisk orange juice, soy sauce, honey, cornstarch, and sesame oil.

  4. Add garlic and ginger to the sauce. Cook over medium heat until it thickens.

  5. Toss the fried chicken tenders in the warm orange sauce.

Your orange chicken tenders are ready to serve! Enjoy them with rice or your favorite side dish.

Korean Gochujang Chicken Tenders

Here’s what you’ll need:

  • 2 pounds chicken tenders
  • 1/2 cup cornstarch
  • 1/4 cup gochujang paste
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon grated ginger
  • Vegetable oil for frying

Now, let’s make these tasty tenders!

  1. Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels.

  2. Place cornstarch in a shallow dish. Coat each tender in cornstarch, shaking off excess.

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

  4. Fry tenders in batches for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Set aside.

  5. In a bowl, mix gochujang, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger.

  6. Heat the sauce in a clean skillet over medium heat until it bubbles.

  7. Add the fried tenders to the pan and toss to coat evenly with the sauce.

  8. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens and sticks to the chicken.

Serve your Korean Gochujang Chicken Tenders hot and enjoy the spicy-sweet flavors!

Pretzel-Crusted Chicken Tenders

Here’s what you’ll need:

  • 1 pound chicken tenderloins
  • 2 cups crushed pretzels
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 eggs, beaten
  • 1 tablespoon water
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Now let’s make these tasty tenders!

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F and grease a baking sheet.

  2. Set up three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with beaten eggs and water, and one with crushed pretzels mixed with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

  3. Dip each chicken tender in flour, then egg mixture, and finally coat with pretzel crumbs.

  4. Place the coated tenders on your prepared baking sheet.

  5. Bake for 15-20 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is crispy.

Your pretzel-crusted chicken tenders are ready to enjoy! Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce for a fun and tasty meal.

Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

You’ll love how quick and easy it is to make these tasty chicken tenders in your air fryer! Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound chicken tenderloins
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Directions:

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 5 minutes.

  2. Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels.

  3. In a bowl, mix the chicken with olive oil and spices until evenly coated.

  4. Place the tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Don’t overcrowd them.

  5. Cook for 7-8 minutes, flipping halfway through.

  6. Check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) using a meat thermometer.

  7. Let the tenders rest for a few minutes before serving.

Your air fryer chicken tenders are now ready to enjoy! They’re perfect for dipping in your favorite sauce or slicing up for salads.