What's the difference between chicken tenders and chicken breasts?

Chicken tenders are a specific muscle attached to the underside of the chicken breast. They're naturally more tender (hence the name), cook faster, and have a slightly different texture than the breast itself. If you can't find tenders, you can cut chicken breasts into strips, but the cooking time might need slight adjustment.

Can I use this recipe for meal prep?

Absolutely! These tenders maintain their flavor and juiciness when stored properly. Cook a double batch at the beginning of the week and use them for salads, wraps, and quick dinners. They're perfect for meal prep because they reheat wonderfully and can be enjoyed hot or cold.

How do I know when the chicken tenders are fully cooked?

The most reliable method is using a meat thermometer, which should read 165°F when inserted into the thickest part of the tender. Visually, the chicken should be opaque all the way through with no pink spots, and the juices should run clear when pierced.

Can I make these tenders gluten-free?

Good news! This recipe is naturally gluten-free as written, using just spices and olive oil. Just make sure your spices are certified gluten-free if you have celiac disease or severe sensitivity, as some spice blends may contain anti-caking agents with gluten.

Juicy Chicken Tenders Recipe

Description

These easy and flavorful chicken tenders are seasoned with a blend of garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper, then cooked quickly on the stovetop until golden brown. Perfect for a quick weeknight main-course, they are juicy, tender, and versatile with endless seasoning options.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

- 1 pound chicken tenders (chicken tenderloins)

Seasonings

- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper

Cooking

1 tablespoon olive oil

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Instructions

Prepare Seasoning – In a bowl, mix together the garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, oregano, and pepper until well combined.
Season Chicken – Add the chicken tenders to a large bowl and pour the seasoning mix on top. Mix thoroughly to coat all the pieces evenly.
Cook Chicken – Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken tenderloins and cook for 6–7 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown on all sides and reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
Serve – Serve the chicken tenders immediately. For extra flavor, sprinkle with fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

To store: Keep leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3–4 days.
To freeze: Store cooked chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
To reheat: Warm tenders in the microwave, oven, air fryer, or skillet with a little oil until heated through.
For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in your favorite marinade for 1–2 hours before cooking.
Experiment with different seasonings, such as adding cayenne pepper for heat or extra herbs for a different flavor profile.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/4 pound cooked chicken tenders
Calories: 180
Sugar: 0g
Sodium: 385mg
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Unsaturated Fat: 4.5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 1g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 28g
Cholesterol: 75mg