Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and incredibly flavorful dinner recipe that the whole family will love? Look no further! This baked tenderloin chicken recipe is your answer. It's surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner cooks, and delivers juicy, tender chicken every single time. Forget complicated techniques and long prep times; this recipe prioritizes simplicity without sacrificing deliciousness. It's the perfect solution for busy weeknights, yet elegant enough for a weekend dinner party. Let's get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken tenderloins
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Get Started: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your chicken cooks perfectly and evenly.
Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken tenderloins dry with paper towels. This helps them brown nicely in the oven. In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Season and Marinate (Optional): Generously rub the spice mixture all over the chicken tenderloins. For extra flavor, let them marinate for at least 15 minutes (or even longer in the refrigerator). This step is optional but highly recommended!
Bake the Chicken: Place the chicken tenderloins in a baking dish. Pour the chicken broth into the bottom of the dish. Arrange the lemon slices around the chicken.
Cooking Time: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure it’s perfectly cooked.
Rest and Serve: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in extra tender and flavorful chicken. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Tips for Perfect Baked Chicken:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Ensure there's enough space between the chicken tenderloins for even cooking. If necessary, use two baking dishes.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the best way to guarantee your chicken is cooked through and safe to eat.
- Adjust cooking time: Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your chicken tenderloins and your oven. Always check for doneness.
Variations:
- Lemon Herb Chicken: Add fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or parsley to the spice rub for a more aromatic flavor.
- Garlic Parmesan Chicken: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the chicken before baking for a cheesy twist.
- Spicy Chicken: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the spice rub for a little heat.
- Creamy Mushroom Chicken: Sautee sliced mushrooms and add them to the baking dish with the chicken and broth.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Protein: Approximately 30g
- Fat: Approximately 5-8g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 2-3g
This baked tenderloin chicken recipe is a versatile and delicious addition to your weekly meal plan. It's a healthy and easy dinner option that's perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Enjoy experimenting with different flavors and variations to find your perfect baked chicken recipe!