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Easy Garlic Herb Chicken Tenders Recipe


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4.2 from 11 reviews

  • Author: Eliza
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 3 servings

Description

This Chicken Tenders Recipe features juicy, flavorful chicken tenderloins pan-seared to perfection with paprika, garlic, and Italian seasoning. The dish is quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for a delicious weeknight dinner. Finished with a buttery garlic sauce and fresh parsley garnish, these tenders are tender, savory, and sure to be a family favorite.


Ingredients

Chicken Tenders

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons butter (divided)
  • 1 pound (450g) chicken tenderloins (mini fillets)
  • 2 teaspoons paprika
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper

Sauce & Garnish

  • 4 cloves garlic (minced or crushed)
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
  • 2 tablespoons water (for deglazing)


Instructions

  1. Heat the pan: Add olive oil and melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a pan or skillet over medium heat until hot and shimmering.
  2. Season the chicken: Place the chicken tenders in the pan and season with paprika, salt, and black pepper on the side facing up.
  3. Cook the first side: Cook the chicken tenders for 3 minutes on one side over medium heat to develop a golden sear.
  4. Flip and season: Flip the chicken tenders to the other side, seasoning the newly cooked side with paprika, salt, and pepper as well.
  5. Cook the second side: Continue cooking for another 3 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink inside.
  6. Add garlic and butter: Push the chicken to one side of the pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter, and quickly melt it. Add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
  7. Season and finish cooking: Sprinkle Italian seasoning over the chicken and garlic, then cook for one more minute to blend the flavors.
  8. Deglaze the pan: Pour 2 tablespoons of water into the pan and scrape the bottom to lift all the flavorful browned bits. This helps to create a delicious sauce coating the chicken.
  9. Garnish and serve: Transfer the chicken tenders to a serving plate, sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley (or basil if preferred), and serve warm.

Notes

  • For extra crunch, you can dust the chicken tenders lightly with flour or breadcrumbs before cooking.
  • Ensure the garlic does not burn by cooking it only briefly until fragrant.
  • Use fresh parsley for the best flavor and color as garnish.
  • Chicken tenders cook quickly, so monitor closely to avoid overcooking and drying out.
  • This recipe pairs well with steamed vegetables, rice, or mashed potatoes.
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: American