This Chicken Breast Tenderloin recipe is a delicious and versatile dish that highlights the tender, juicy texture of the tenderloins while allowing for a world of flavor to shine through. With a simple marinade and a quick cooking method, you can easily whip up a satisfying meal that is perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep. The tenderloins soak up the marinade beautifully, making each bite a burst of flavor that pairs perfectly with a variety of sides.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will love this chicken breast tenderloin recipe for its incredible flavor and the ease with which it can be prepared. The marinade infuses the chicken with a savory, tangy taste that leaves you wanting more. It’s an ideal recipe for busy weeknights, as it requires minimal prep time and cooks quickly. Plus, it’s a fantastic option for those looking for a healthy meal, as chicken breast is low in fat and high in protein, fitting seamlessly into many diets.
Tips and Tricks
- Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but for even better flavor, try to let it sit for 2-4 hours or overnight in the refrigerator.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for perfect doneness.
- For added flavor, consider adding ingredients like garlic powder, paprika, or fresh herbs to the marinade.
- If you’re short on time, skip the marinating step and simply season the chicken with salt, pepper, and your favorite spices before cooking.
Make Ahead Tips
To make your meal prep easier, you can marinate the chicken tenderloins a day ahead. Simply combine the marinade ingredients, add the chicken, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to cook, just take it out and follow the cooking instructions. Cooked chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, making it perfect for meal planning.
Recipe Variations
- For a spicy kick, add some Sriracha or red pepper flakes to the marinade.
- Swap out the marinade for a lemon herb blend by using lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and fresh herbs.
- For a different cooking method, try grilling the tenderloins for a smoky flavor or baking them for a hands-off approach.
How to Serve
Serve the chicken breast tenderloins sliced on a platter, garnished with fresh herbs for a pop of color. Pair it with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad to create a balanced meal. Drizzle a bit of the reserved marinade over the top for added flavor and presentation. A sprinkle of sesame seeds or chopped parsley can also enhance the visual appeal.
Pairing Suggestions
Pair this dish with a light white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a refreshing cocktail like a cucumber mint cooler. For side dishes, consider serving it with quinoa, steamed broccoli, or garlic mashed potatoes. For dessert, a light sorbet or fruit salad complements the meal beautifully.
How to Store
Store leftover chicken breast tenderloins in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze the cooked chicken for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop to avoid drying out.
Equipment Needed
- A large mixing bowl for marinating the chicken
- A meat thermometer for checking doneness
- A skillet or grill pan for cooking
- Optional: A zip-top bag for marinating the chicken for easy cleanup
Dietary Adaptations
To make this recipe gluten-free, ensure that your marinade ingredients are gluten-free, such as using tamari instead of soy sauce. For a dairy-free option, this recipe is naturally dairy-free, so no adjustments are needed. For those on a ketogenic diet, you can replace sugars in the marinade with a sugar substitute.
Seasonal Adaptations
In spring and summer, use fresh herbs such as basil or cilantro in the marinade for a vibrant flavor. In the fall, consider adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the marinade for a warm touch. In winter, you might want to use citrus flavors like orange or grapefruit to brighten up the dish.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use regular chicken breasts instead of tenderloins? Yes, you can use regular chicken breasts, but they may require longer cooking time.
- How long should I marinate the chicken? At least 30 minutes, but ideally 2-4 hours or overnight for maximum flavor.
- What other spices can I use in the marinade? Feel free to experiment with cumin, oregano, or fresh ginger for different flavor profiles.
Chicken Breast Tenderloin
This Chicken Breast Tenderloin recipe is a delicious and versatile dish that highlights the tender, juicy texture of the tenderloins while allowing for a world of flavor to shine through.
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken breast tenderloins
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon honey (or maple syrup for vegan)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine olive oil, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, honey, salt, and pepper. Whisk together until well mixed.
- Add the chicken breast tenderloins to the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for better flavor.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess marinade to drip off.
- Add the chicken to the hot skillet and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (165°F internal temperature).
- Once cooked, remove from heat and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Serve the sliced chicken on a platter, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 4 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 322Total Fat: 18gSaturated Fat: 3gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 14gCholesterol: 96mgSodium: 597mgCarbohydrates: 3gFiber: 0gSugar: 2gProtein: 36g
Chickenrecipes.blog, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
This chicken breast tenderloin recipe is a fantastic addition to any home cook’s repertoire. With its quick preparation, bold flavors, and versatility, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. Don’t hesitate to experiment with marinades and sides to make it your own. Enjoy the satisfaction of a delicious and healthy meal that will impress family and friends alike!
