Are you craving a healthy, flavorful, and incredibly easy dinner? Look no further! This recipe for crock pot chicken tenderloins is your answer. Forget complicated cooking techniques and lengthy prep times; this dish is perfect for busy weeknights, leaving you with juicy, tender chicken that's bursting with flavor. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this recipe is guaranteed to become a staple in your weekly meal rotation. It's one of the best recipes for effortless homemade cooking.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken tenderloins
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Chicken
Pat the chicken tenderloins dry with paper towels. This helps them brown nicely and ensures even cooking. In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Step 2: Seasoning and Browning (Optional but Recommended)
Rub the spice mixture all over the chicken tenderloins. For extra flavor, you can lightly brown the chicken in a skillet over medium-high heat for about 2-3 minutes per side before placing them in the slow cooker. This step isn't strictly necessary, but it adds a beautiful depth of flavor.
Step 3: Slow Cooking the Chicken
Place the seasoned chicken tenderloins in your crock pot. Pour the chicken broth and lemon juice over the chicken. Stir in the Dijon mustard.
Step 4: Cooking Time
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).
Step 5: Serving Suggestions
Serve the chicken tenderloins as is, or shred them and use them in salads, tacos, sandwiches, or wraps. The delicious sauce from the crock pot makes a fantastic base for a healthy meal.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Crock Pot Chicken:
- Don't overcrowd the crock pot: Ensure there's enough space between the chicken pieces for even cooking.
- Check for doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
- Thicken the sauce (optional): For a thicker sauce, remove the chicken from the crock pot and mix 1-2 tablespoons of cornstarch with a little cold water to create a slurry. Stir the slurry into the remaining liquid in the crock pot and cook for another 10-15 minutes on low, or until thickened.
Variations:
- Spicy Chicken: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the spice mixture for a spicy kick.
- BBQ Chicken: Replace the Dijon mustard with your favorite BBQ sauce for a smoky, sweet flavor.
- Garlic Parmesan Chicken: Add 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese to the spice mixture and top with extra Parmesan before serving.
- Herb Chicken: Add 1 tablespoon of dried herbs like oregano, thyme, or rosemary to the spice mix for an aromatic twist. Fresh herbs work wonderfully as well, added at the end.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is based on a 6-serving recipe and may vary depending on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 5-10g
This recipe for crock pot chicken tenderloins provides a quick, healthy, and delicious dinner option. It’s a perfect example of easy recipes and healthy meals that are also perfect for quick dinner ideas. Enjoy!