Craving a delicious and healthy dinner that's ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! These spicy chicken tenderloins are the perfect solution for a quick weeknight meal. Packed with flavor and incredibly easy to make, this recipe is a winner for both beginner cooks and seasoned chefs looking for a simple yet exciting dish. Forget complicated cooking – this recipe is all about bold flavors and minimal fuss. Let's get started!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken tenderloins
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (or more, to taste)
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Pat the chicken tenderloins dry with paper towels. This helps them to brown nicely.
Step 2: Make the Spice Rub
In a small bowl, combine paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
Generously coat the chicken tenderloins with the spice rub, ensuring they're evenly covered.
Step 4: Sear the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken tenderloins and sear for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown.
Step 5: Simmer to Perfection
Pour the chicken broth into the skillet, reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Remove the chicken from the skillet and serve immediately. These spicy chicken tenderloins are fantastic on their own, over rice, with roasted vegetables, or in a salad.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Chicken:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: If you have a lot of chicken, cook it in batches to ensure even browning and cooking.
- Adjust the spice level: Feel free to adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your preferred level of spiciness. For a milder dish, omit it altogether.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the best way to ensure your chicken is cooked through and safe to eat.
Variations:
- Honey Garlic Chicken: Add 1-2 tablespoons of honey to the skillet during the simmering stage for a sweet and spicy kick.
- Lemon Herb Chicken: Add the zest and juice of one lemon to the skillet along with fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary.
- Spicy Peanut Chicken: Stir in a spoonful of peanut butter during the last few minutes of cooking for a delicious Asian-inspired twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Protein: Approximately 25-30g
- Fat: Approximately 5-8g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 2-5g
This easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. The combination of delicious spices and tender chicken makes it a healthy and satisfying meal that the whole family will love. Try it today and discover a new favorite quick dinner idea!