Are you looking for a healthy, delicious, and incredibly easy dinner recipe? Look no further! This crock pot chicken tenderloin recipe is your new go-to for busy weeknights. Forget complicated cooking techniques and long prep times; this recipe delivers juicy, flavorful chicken with minimal effort. It's the perfect example of homemade cooking made simple, resulting in one of the best recipes you'll ever try. This recipe is packed with flavor, making it a fantastic quick dinner idea for the whole family.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken tenderloins
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional, can substitute with extra chicken broth)
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Pat the chicken tenderloins dry with paper towels. This helps them brown better and ensures a crispier result if you choose to broil them later.
Season and Sear (Optional):
- In a small bowl, combine salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Generously season the chicken tenderloins with the spice mixture. For extra flavor, heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 2-3 minutes per side, until lightly browned. This step isn’t mandatory, but it adds a nice depth of flavor.
Crock Pot Cooking:
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Place the seasoned chicken tenderloins in your slow cooker. Pour the chicken broth and white wine (if using) over the chicken. Arrange the lemon slices on top.
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Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and easily shreds with a fork. Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
Finishing Touches:
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Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken from the slow cooker. You can shred the chicken with two forks for easier serving, especially if using for tacos or salads.
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If you seared the chicken beforehand and want a crispier finish, you can broil the shredded chicken for a couple of minutes in the oven. This step is entirely optional.
Tips for Perfect Crock Pot Chicken:
- Don't overcrowd the crock pot: Ensure there's enough space between the chicken tenderloins for even cooking.
- Check for doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Adjust cooking time: Cooking time may vary depending on the size of your chicken tenderloins and your slow cooker.
- Make it a complete meal: Serve this delicious chicken with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad for a balanced and satisfying meal.
Variations:
- Lemon Herb Chicken: Add fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano along with the lemon slices.
- Spicy Chicken: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the spice rub for a kick.
- Garlic Parmesan Chicken: Add 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese to the slow cooker along with the chicken broth.
- BBQ Chicken: Substitute the chicken broth and wine with your favorite BBQ sauce during the last hour of cooking.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Around 200-250 (depending on serving size and additions)
- Protein: Around 30-35g
- Fat: Around 5-8g
- Carbohydrates: Around 2-5g
This easy crock pot chicken tenderloin recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of healthy meals and easy recipes. It's perfect for meal prepping, making it an ideal option for those busy weeknights when you need a quick and delicious dinner on the table without sacrificing flavor or nutrition. Enjoy!