57 Chicken Tenderloin Recipes

Chicken tenderloins are a versatile and delicious ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. They are quick-cooking, tender, and packed with flavor, making them a go-to ingredient for busy weeknights and family-friendly meals. In this blog post, we’ve gathered a collection of 57 mouth-watering chicken tenderloin recipes that are sure to become new favorites. From classic buttermilk tenders to spicy buffalo strips, there’s a recipe for every taste and occasion. So, get ready to add some delicious new dishes to your recipe box and enjoy the best that chicken tenderloins have to offer!

Chicken tenderloins are a great cut of meat because they are so easy to cook! They cook quickly, they are nice and tender and they can be seasoned with almost anything! You can bake them, air fry them, fry them, sauté them, grill them or put them in an electric pressure cooker! They are the perfect cut of meat for busy weeknight meals or meal prep! This collection of our favorite chicken tenderloin recipes will help you meal plan with ease! They make a great easy main dish for dinner, a tasty lunch or delicious snack! 

What is a chicken tenderloin?

 A chicken tenderloin is a strip of meat that is located near the ribcage of a chicken, between the chicken breast and the leg. It is a thin, tender part of the chicken that is ideal for quick-cooking methods such as grilling, frying, or sautéing. Chicken tenderloins are a popular choice for dishes such as chicken tenders, chicken fingers, and chicken cutlets, and are favored for their tender texture and mild flavor. They are also relatively low in fat and calories, making them a healthier choice for meals.

Because they are usually small and thin the cooking time is quick, they are easy to find in almost any grocery store. You can cook them in a ton of different ways!

You can find chicken tenders in most grocery stores near the boneless skinless chicken breast. You can also often find frozen chicken tenders in the freezer section.

Tips for cooking chicken tenderloins-

Cook to the right temperature- Chicken is best cooked to an internal temperature of 165. The best way to check is to use a meat thermometer. Don’t overcook the chicken so that it stays moist. Cook time may vary depending on how you are cooking the tenderloins and what cooking method you are using. They usually only take about 20 minutes to cook so they make a great quick dinner.

Pat dry before seasoning– Before seasoning your chicken tenders pat them dry with a paper towel. This helps the seasoning stick. I like to start with black pepper and salt and then add any additional seasonings!

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• Creamy Chicken and Bacon Pasta Bake – This creamy chicken and bacon pasta bake is a delicious and easy-to-make dinner recipe that will satisfy the whole family. This hearty dish combines tender chicken, crispy bacon, and al dente pasta, all smothered in a creamy ranch sauce and topped with melted cheese. With its bold flavors and comforting texture, this chicken and bacon pasta bake is sure to become a new family favorite.
• Sheet Pan Chicken Teriyaki– Sheet pan meals are so easy for busy weeknights! This sheet pan chicken teriyaki has juicy flavorful chicken and tender veggies in a delicious homemade teriyaki sauce. It is a delicious meal the whole family loves!
• Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole– This chicken cordon bleu casserole has all of the flavors of the classic dish in a delicious casserole. Tender chicken and ham are topped with a creamy sauce and buttery bread crumbs. This easy weeknight dinner is always a hit with the whole family!

Air Fryer Classic Chicken Tenders

Look no further for the perfect recipe for crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders . This amazing recipe calls for a simple coating of panko breadcrumbs and a basic egg wash, resulting in delicious chicken tenders that are sure to impress both you and your kids. With only three ingredients, this Air Fryer Chicken Tender Recipe is quick and easy to make.

Garlic Butter Chicken Tenders 

Prepare a quick and easy garlic butter sauce to cook up some delicious chicken tenders that are healthier and packed with flavor. These chicken tenderloins will turn out tender, juicy, succulent, and flavorful, making for a perfect weeknight dinner that’s ready in just 15 minutes. This is one of the best and simplest chicken tender recipes that you can try.

Honey Soy Chicken Tenderloins

Learn to prepare the most scrumptious honey soy chicken tenderloins or breasts with this effortless, healthy, and mouth-watering recipe. These tenderloins are not only visually appealing but also have a delectable taste thanks to the coating of a mouthwatering honey, soy, and garlic sauce.

Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders

This wholesome recipe for chicken tenderloins is unbelievably simple to make. A combination of tamari, honey, and garlic is used to create a delectable sticky-sweet sauce that covers the chicken. You can either serve these tenderloins over brown rice alongside some broccoli or use them as a topping for a salad or grain bowl.

Baked Chicken Tenderloins

You won’t be able to resist these breading-free baked chicken tenderloins, seasoned with a delightful mix of butter and spices! With a crispy exterior, juicy interior, and an abundance of flavors, these tenderloins are simply perfect. Plus, they can be prepared in only 30 minutes, making them an excellent choice for a quick and easy dinner on any day of the week!

Air Fryer Blackened Chicken Tenders

Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with these succulent air-fried chicken tenderloins, seasoned to perfection with a homemade blackened spice blend! These tenderloins are cooked to crispy golden-brown perfection on the outside, while remaining perfectly moist and tender on the inside.

Lemon Butter Chicken Tenders 

Thin pieces of poultry are coated in a blend of aromatic seasonings and browned until they achieve a beautiful golden hue, finally topped off with a delicious lemon-butter sauce infused with garlic. This is a quick, effortless chicken dish that will surely satisfy your cravings without any hassle!

Easy Parmesan Chicken Tenderloins–

Tender chicken loins are coated in breadcrumbs and smothered in a rich sauce, then topped with melted mozzarella cheese. It’s a mini version of the classic chicken parmesan dinner, made with ease!

Air Fryer Cracker Barrel Chicken Tenderloins– 

The Air Fryer Chicken Tenderloins from Cracker Barrel are a spot-on duplicate of the original! The air fryer keeps them incredibly juicy, making for a truly delicious experience.

Parmesan Ranch Baked Chicken Tenders

Everyone loves these mouth-watering Parmesan Ranch Baked Chicken Tenders! They’re a low-carb, keto-friendly treat that doesn’t skimp on flavor. With no flour or breadcrumbs in sight, they’re a must-make for anyone looking to indulge while sticking to their dietary restrictions.

Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenders- 

A fan-favorite chicken recipe, these tenders are marinated in flavorful buttermilk and pan-fried to a crispy, crunchy finish. They’re sure to be a hit with everyone who tries them.

Oven Baked Chicken Tenders 

Say goodbye to fast food and hello to homemade, oven-baked chicken tenders! They’re a cinch to make, budget-friendly, and a healthier option all around. The delectable marinade and crunchy breading create juicy and flavorful strips that are great for a kid-friendly lunch or a quick weeknight dinner.

Mushroom Chicken– 

Bringing back a classic dinner idea, these creamy mushroom chicken tenderloins are a blast from the past. This simple and delectable meal is sure to become a new favorite.

Marinated Baked Chicken Tenderloins

Making Marinated Baked Chicken Tenderloins is a breeze! They’re incredibly tender and a crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults. This healthier take on the dish is oven-baked to perfection, and the simple marinade ingredients come together with minimal prep. The end result is a delicious meal that you won’t be able to resist.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders– 

Say goodbye to fast food and hello to homemade Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders! These oven-baked tenders are a cinch to make, with a crunchy and flavorful exterior and a tender and juicy interior. Perfect for dinner, they’re sure to become a new family favorite.

Mustard Baked Chicken Tenders– 

A healthy and delicious recipe, these Mustard Baked Chicken Tenders are both easy to make and full of flavor. Enjoy as-is, or serve over rice or a salad to soak up the tasty mustard sauce. Either way, it’s a meal you won’t be able to resist!

Grilled Chicken Tenders– 

Grilled Chicken Tenders bring together my inner child who was a picky eater always ordering chicken fingers and my adult self who has refined taste when it comes to chicken fingers. The chicken must be juicy and flavorful, and I don’t have time to spend hours cooking it. It’s the perfect solution for my picky taste and busy schedule.

Chicken Tenderloin Stir Fry– 

Chicken tenderloin is a nutritious and convenient choice for stir-fry, and I’ve flavored it with a delicious black bean sauce. However, you can easily switch things up by using your preferred stir-fry sauce. I recently whipped up this easy weeknight dinner using chicken tenderloins and it turned out so tasty, I just had to share the recipe with you.

Lemon Butter Chicken Recipe– 

You’ll love this Lemon Butter Chicken recipe, it’s an instant hit with the whole family! The homemade lemon butter sauce is rich and creamy, making it the perfect partner for crispy chicken tenders. The dish is packed with flavor and can be made in under 30 minutes using just a few simple ingredients. It’s a must-try!

Super Crunch Chicken Tenderloins- 

This chicken tender recipe is a crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults. The double crunch, infused with Italian herbs and Parmesan cheese, takes these tenders to the next level. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce, like chili, tomato, or mayo, for a truly delicious experience. They’re simple to make, and the flaky outer crunch is best achieved using Panko breadcrumbs.

Crock Pot Chicken Tenders Recipe

This Crock Pot Chicken Tender Recipe is packed with flavor and incredibly easy to make. The Zesty Italian Dressing mix, combined with lemon and other simple seasonings, creates a family-favorite meal that you’ll love. It’s one of the simplest chicken tender recipes you’ll ever make.

Panko Baked Chicken 

Comfort food at its best, these Crispy and Delicious Panko Baked Chicken Tenders are the perfect dinner after a long, busy week! Breaded with crunchy Panko breadcrumbs, these oven-baked chicken strips are packed with flavor and still a healthy option. Satisfy your cravings for something tasty and comforting with this easy-to-make dinner recipe.

Chicken Tenderloins with Cilantro Lime Butter

Grilled to perfection, these Chicken Tenderloins with Cilantro Lime Butter deliver big on flavor in no time. Serve them over a medley of roasted corn, lima beans, sun-dried tomatoes, peppers, avocado, and cilantro for a succotash that perfectly complements the juicy and flavorful chicken. This dish is sure to become a new favorite!

Copycat Popeye’s Chicken Strips 

Say goodbye to fast food and hello to these Crispy, Spicy Chicken Tenders! Tender and juicy on the inside with a perfectly crisp and spicy coating, they’re better than your favorite fast food chain. Whether you prefer a deep fryer, a skillet, or an air fryer, this recipe includes instructions for all. Get ready to enjoy the best spicy chicken tenders you’ve ever had!

Best Damn Buttermilk Chicken Tenders- 

These Buttermilk Chicken Tenders are the epitome of deliciousness and will easily become your go-to recipe for making chicken tenders at home. The light and crispy batter encases tender and juicy chicken, making every bite an explosion of flavor. It’s no wonder they’re dubbed “The Best Damn Buttermilk Chicken Tenders”. Trust us, you won’t be disappointed!

Nashville Hot Chicken Strips

Get ready for a spicy twist on a classic with these Nashville Hot Chicken Strips! Inspired by the famous spicy bone-in Nashville hot chicken, these strips are melt-in-your-mouth tender and pack a pleasing kick. They’re guaranteed to bring some heat to your meal and leave a lasting impression.

Pan Fried Chicken Tenders 

For a quick and delicious meal, try these Easy Pan-Fried Chicken Tenders! With no breading required, these tenders are perfectly seasoned and cooked to perfection in a skillet in under 8 minutes. They’re the perfect go-to recipe for lunch or dinner and will quickly become a staple in your meal rotation.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders

Get ready to enjoy a new easy dinner with just Five Ingredients and Five Minutes of prep time with these Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders! This is our go-to recipe for quick and delicious chicken tenders that the whole family will love. It’s quickly becoming a favorite in households everywhere!

Cornflake Chicken Tenders 

Transform your dinner routine with these Perfectly Crispy Cornflake Chicken Tenders, baked to golden perfection. The crunch factor is off the charts, and they’re so simple to make for busy weeknights. You won’t believe how delicious and easy these chicken tenders can be!

Everything Bagel Chicken Bake- 

Score a dinner home-run with this Everything Bagel Chicken Bake! Juicy chicken tenders seasoned with everything bagel seasoning and coated in crunchy panko make for a delicious and simple main course that the entire family will love. With just five minutes of prep time, you can have this dish in the oven and baking to perfection. Get ready to enjoy a new dinner favorite!

Chick Fil A Chicken Tenders Recipe

Bring the Chick-Fil-A experience home with this easy copycat recipe for Chick-Fil-A Chicken Tenders! They’re a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for dipping into your favorite sauce. Now you can enjoy your favorite fast-food treat anytime, right from your own kitchen.

Crispy Ranch Chicken Tenders- 

Craving some seriously delicious chicken strips? Look no further than these Crispy Ranch Chicken Tenders! Packed with the delicious taste of buttermilk and Ranch seasoning, they’re sure to become your go-to easy fried chicken recipe. Get ready to enjoy a new favorite dish!

Crack Chicken Tenders

Get ready for some seriously delicious chicken with Crack Chicken Tenders! These tenders are seasoned with ranch and topped with cheese, then wrapped in bacon for an extra burst of flavor. So easy to make and so incredibly tasty, they’re great for a quick lunch or dinner, tailgating, or any occasion. Dip them in additional ranch dressing for an extra boost of flavor. Trust us, you’ll want to double the recipe as they never last long!

Dorito Chicken Tenders

Impress your kids with these mouth-watering Doritos Chicken Tenders! This easy recipe only requires 4 ingredients total and is sure to become a hit in your household. Get ready to earn a gold star from your kids with this delicious and simple chicken tenders recipe.

Honey BBQ Chicken Tenders 

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with these Honey BBQ Chicken Tenders, baked to crispy perfection in the oven. Topped with a simple BBQ sauce and served with ranch dressing, these tenders are sure to satisfy your cravings for something delicious and comforting. Get ready for a new favorite dish!

Baked BBQ Chicken Tenders

Make dinner a hit with the family by serving these Baked BBQ Chicken Tenders. They’re a favorite of my kids and for good reason! Seasoned and baked to perfection, then brushed with BBQ sauce for added flavor, these tenders are the perfect family-friendly dinner idea. Get ready to enjoy a new dinner staple!

Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders 

Satisfy your cravings for something juicy, flavorful, and crispy with these Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Tenders. The bacon keeps the chicken tender and juicy, while the brown sugar coating creates a delicious glaze. Get ready to enjoy a new favorite dish that’s sure to impress!

Cheesy Garlic Baked Chicken 

Indulge in a chicken dish that’s packed with flavor with this Garlic Butter Parmesan and Cheddar Chicken. The chicken is coated in a delicious garlic butter, then tossed with Parmesan and cheddar cheeses, spices, and crispy bread crumbs before being baked until it’s tender and full of flavor

Naked Italian Chicken Tenders

Make mealtime a breeze on busy weekdays with this light and flavorful dish. Perfect for hot summer days or any other day, this recipe is sure to become one of your go-to meals. All you need is a few simple ingredients, including chicken tenderloins, Italian seasoning, garlic salt, grated Parmesan cheese, paprika, onion powder, pepper, and either butter or olive oil. Get ready to enjoy a delicious and easy meal!

Bisquick Chicken Tenders 

Enjoy a classic, kid-friendly dinner that everyone will love with these Crispy, Crunchy, and Tender Bisquick Chicken Tenders. This ultimate Bisquick chicken fingers recipe takes just 20 minutes from start to finish, and can be prepared easily in the oven or air fryer. Get ready to enjoy a delicious and quick meal!

Buttermilk Chicken Tenders

Get restaurant-quality chicken tenders right at home with this recipe for Extra Crispy, Juicy, and Tender Buttermilk Chicken Tenders. Made with just a few simple ingredients, these tenders are easy to make and the results are better than what you can get at a restaurant. 

Baked Buffalo Chicken Tenders

Satisfy your cravings for spicy Buffalo chicken with these healthier Buffalo Chicken Tenders. Baked in the oven until juicy and crispy, these tenders are then tossed in a delicious hot buffalo sauce for an even better taste than take-out. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or to serve on game-day, these tenders are easy to make and delicious. Get ready to enjoy a new favorite dish!

Texas Roadhouse Chicken Critters- 

Get a taste of Texas Roadhouse right at home with this copycat recipe for Texas Roadhouse Chicken Critters. These delicious chicken tenders are soaked in buttermilk and fried to golden brown perfection in a seasoned batter. Get ready to enjoy a real deal recipe for tasty chicken tenders!

Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders- 

Indulge in the sweet and crispy goodness of these Coconut Chicken Tenders. Sprinkled with chili powder and coated in a mixture of sweet coconut flakes and panko, these tenders are juicy, tender, and mouthwateringly delicious. Enjoy them fried or baked for a tasty treat that’s hard to resist!

Tortilla Chip Crusted Chicken Tenders 

Satisfy your cravings for crunchy chicken tenders without any guilt! These Healthy Gluten-Free Tortilla Chip Crusted Chicken Tenders are top 8 allergy-free, oil-free, and baked in the oven for a healthier option. With a crispy, crunchy coating and a kick of spice, this will become your new go-to dinner recipe that you can feel good about feeding the kids.

Cheez-it Coated Chicken Tenders

Get ready for a hit with the family with these Cheez-It Coated Baked Chicken Tenders! The crispy cheddar cracker coating and juicy meat on the inside make for a winning combination. Serve them as an appetizer with sauces, in a sandwich, or as a topping on salads for a versatile and delicious meal.

Chicken Piccata with Mushrooms and Capers

Indulge in the tangy and buttery flavors of this Chicken Piccata with Mushrooms and Capers in just under 30 minutes. The dish, with its delicious sauce made of lemon, mushrooms, and capers, pairs perfectly with noodles, potatoes, or rice for a quick and satisfying meal.

Caesar Salad With Blackened Chicken 

This Caesar Salad with a Touch of Spice is elevated with the addition of juicy, blackened chicken. The combination of the classic Caesar flavors and the bold spiciness of the chicken make for a delicious and satisfying lunch or dinner.

Honey Garlic Chicken 

This Honey Garlic Chicken is a crowd-pleaser that brings together crispy, crunchy chicken and a sweet, sticky sauce. With just 30 minutes of preparation time, it’s the perfect meal for lunch, dinner, or even as an appetizer.

Oven Baked Chicken Tenders- 

These crispy and juicy chicken tenders are not only delicious, but also healthy! With a simple oven bake or air fryer cook, you can have this tasty dish ready in no time.

Honey Orange Chicken 

This Honey Orange Chicken is a fantastic and delectable dinner option that can be easily made in under 30 minutes. Quick and simple to prepare, it’s perfect for busy weeknights and families. The sweet and tangy orange honey glaze is sure to be a hit with kids.

Hot Honey Chicken Tenders 

These Hot Honey Chicken Tenders are a must-try for all finger food fans! The juicy chicken tenderloins are coated in a combination of buttermilk and flour, then fried to crispy perfection and smothered in a mouth-watering sauce.

Hot Cheeto Chicken Fingers 

For all the fans of Flaming Hot Cheetos, I have a fun recipe to share! Introducing the Hot Cheeto Chicken Fingers, a crispy and spicy chicken finger dish that will be a hit with any Cheeto lover.

Baked Buffalo Chicken Tenders- 

These Baked Buffalo Chicken Tenders are the ideal solution for a scrumptious and effortless meal or as a snack to share with friends and family. They are simple to make, crunchy, and taste amazing when paired with a side of bleu cheese dipping sauce and some freshly chopped celery and carrots.

Creamy Lemon Chicken– 

This Creamy Lemon Chicken is the ultimate solution for hectic weeknight dinners. The tender chicken tenders are pan-fried to perfection, then coated in a garlicky, creamy sauce that’s elevated by the zing of lemon juice and zest. It’s a comforting and delicious meal that the whole family will adore and it’s so simple to make.

Greek Style Chicken and Salsa– 

This Greek-inspired Chicken and Salsa dish is the ultimate solution for those busy weeknights when you’re in need of a quick and satisfying meal. In just 30 minutes, you can have a delicious, flavorful plate of chicken on the table that the whole family will love.

Pecan Crusted Chicken Tenders

These Pecan Crusted Chicken Tenders are a game-changer for chicken tender lovers! The ground pecans create a crispy and buttery crust that surrounds the juicy chicken tenders. This new take on cooking chicken is sure to impress and has earned a spot in our meal prep routine for its delicious flavor and ease.

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