Are you craving a delicious and healthy dinner that's ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! This recipe for chicken breast tenderloins is perfect for busy weeknights. It's an easy recipe, packed with flavor, and adaptable to your taste preferences. Get ready to enjoy a fantastic homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen. This recipe is one of the best recipes for quick and easy weeknight dinners.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast tenderloins
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup chicken broth or white wine (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken:
Pat the chicken tenderloins dry with paper towels. This helps them brown nicely.
Step 2: Season the Chicken:
In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Generously season the chicken tenderloins with this spice blend, ensuring they're evenly coated.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken tenderloins and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Step 4: Add Flavor (Optional):
If desired, pour in the chicken broth or white wine during the last few minutes of cooking. This will create a delicious pan sauce, adding extra moisture and flavor to your chicken. Allow the liquid to reduce slightly, creating a thicker sauce.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy:
Once cooked, remove the chicken tenderloins from the skillet and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately. This makes a great healthy meal.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Chicken:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Cooking the chicken in batches ensures even browning and cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the best way to guarantee your chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature.
- Let the chicken rest: Allowing the chicken to rest for a few minutes after cooking allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chicken breast.
Variations:
- Lemon Herb Chicken: Add the zest and juice of one lemon to the spice blend for a bright, citrusy flavor. Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary also pair beautifully with chicken.
- Spicy Chicken: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the spice blend for a kick.
- Garlic Parmesan Chicken: Top the cooked chicken with grated Parmesan cheese for an extra cheesy deliciousness.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is based on a 4-serving recipe and may vary depending on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Protein: Approximately 25-30g
- Fat: Approximately 5-8g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 1-2g
This easy recipe for chicken breast tenderloins is a versatile and delicious addition to your weekly meal plan. It's a quick dinner idea perfect for busy weeknights, and the variations allow you to tailor it to your preferences. Enjoy this healthy and satisfying dish!