10 Delicious Chicken Tenderloin Recipes for Quick Weeknight Dinners

Weeknight dinners don’t have to be a hassle, and chicken tenderloin is here to save the day! These versatile cuts cook up quickly and can be transformed into a variety of delicious meals. Whether you’re craving something spicy, comforting, or fresh, these 10 tasty chicken tenderloin recipes will keep your weeknight dinners exciting and stress-free.

Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Tenderloins

Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Tenderloins are a quick and tasty option for busy weeknights. The bright lemon flavor combined with fresh herbs creates a deliciously zesty dish that pairs well with a variety of sides. This recipe is simple enough for anyone to tackle, making it perfect for a weeknight meal.

Prepare to enjoy tender, juicy chicken that bursts with flavor. The marinade infuses the chicken with a refreshing taste, while grilling adds that perfect smoky finish. It’s a guaranteed hit for any dinner table!

Ingredients

• 1 pound chicken tenderloins
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken tenderloins, ensuring they are well coated. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat.
3. Grill the Chicken: Place the marinated tenderloins on the grill. Cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is fully cooked and has nice grill marks.
4. Serve: Remove from the grill and let rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your flavorful Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Tenderloins!

Buffalo Chicken Tenderloin Sliders

Buffalo Chicken Tenderloin Sliders are a quick and tasty option for busy weeknights. These sliders are spicy, crispy, and incredibly satisfying, making them perfect for both dinner and casual gatherings. With a zesty buffalo sauce coating the tender chicken, every bite is packed with flavor.

Not only are these sliders simple to prepare, but they also cater to everyone’s taste. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauces and enjoy the creamy contrast of ranch or blue cheese dressing. They come together in under 30 minutes, making them a go-to recipe when you’re short on time!

Ingredients

• 1 pound chicken tenderloins
• 1 cup buffalo sauce
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Slider buns
• Lettuce leaves
• Ranch or blue cheese dressing for serving

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a bowl, toss the chicken tenderloins with olive oil, salt, pepper, and buffalo sauce until well-coated.
3. Dip each tenderloin in breadcrumbs, ensuring they’re fully covered.
4. Place the coated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through and crispy.
5. Assemble the sliders: place a chicken tenderloin on a slider bun, add a lettuce leaf, and drizzle with ranch or blue cheese dressing. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Creamy Chicken Tenderloin Pasta

This creamy chicken tenderloin pasta is a comforting dish that brings a rich and savory flavor to your weeknight meals. With tender strips of chicken cooked to perfection and tossed in a silky sauce, it’s simple yet satisfying.

The combination of garlic, fresh basil, and a touch of parmesan elevates this dish, making it a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s quick to whip up, so you can enjoy a delicious home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• 1 pound chicken tenderloins
• 8 ounces pasta (spaghetti or fettuccine)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish
• Cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken tenderloins with salt and pepper and add to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in the parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes, mixing until melted and smooth.
4. Combine: Add the cooked pasta and chicken to the skillet, tossing to coat everything in the creamy sauce. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.
5. Serve: Garnish with fresh basil and cherry tomatoes if desired. Enjoy your creamy chicken tenderloin pasta!

Teriyaki Chicken Tenderloin Bowls

These Teriyaki Chicken Tenderloin Bowls are a quick and tasty option for any weeknight dinner. The tender chicken, coated in a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce, pairs perfectly with fresh veggies and fluffy rice. It’s a satisfying meal that’s easy to whip up in no time!

The balance of flavors and textures in these bowls is fantastic. You get the juicy chicken, crunchy vegetables, and soft rice all in one dish. Plus, it’s super flexible; feel free to use any veggies you have on hand.

Ingredients

• 1 pound chicken tenderloins
• 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
• 2 cups cooked jasmine rice
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 cup sliced carrots
• 1 cup bell peppers, diced
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• Sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the chicken tenderloins and teriyaki sauce. Let it marinate for at least 15-20 minutes.
2. Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
3. Add the Veggies: Toss in the broccoli, carrots, and bell peppers. Drizzle with sesame oil and cook for another 5 minutes until the veggies are tender.
4. Assemble the Bowls: Divide the cooked rice among bowls. Top with the chicken and vegetable mixture. Sprinkle with sesame seeds before serving.

Italian Chicken Tenderloin Skewers

Italian Chicken Tenderloin Skewers are a delightful way to bring the flavors of Italy to your dinner table in just a few simple steps. Marinated in olive oil, garlic, and herbs, these skewers are juicy and full of flavor. They’re perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a fun outdoor gathering.

This recipe is not only easy to prepare, but it also allows for some creativity. You can mix and match your favorite veggies and serve them with a tasty dipping sauce. It’s a dish that everyone will love!

Ingredients

• 1 pound chicken tenderloins
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Skewers (if using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes beforehand)
• 1 bell pepper, cut into chunks
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine olive oil, garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken tenderloins and toss to coat. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the fridge for more flavor.
2. Prepare the Skewers: Thread the marinated chicken tenderloins and vegetables onto the skewers, alternating between chicken and veggies.
3. Grill the Skewers: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill the skewers for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
4. Serve: Remove from the grill and let rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil and serve with your favorite dipping sauce.

Crispy Parmesan Chicken Tenderloins

Crispy Parmesan Chicken Tenderloins are a fantastic option for quick weeknight dinners. Juicy chicken tenderloins are coated in a crispy Parmesan and breadcrumb mixture that adds a delightful crunch and rich flavor to every bite. It’s a simple recipe that even novice cooks can master, making it a go-to for busy evenings.

This dish pairs beautifully with a side salad or some roasted vegetables. Kids and adults alike will love the crispy texture, and the addition of fresh lemon juice adds a zesty brightness. You’ll find it hard to believe something so delicious can be so easy to prepare!

Ingredients

• 1 pound chicken tenderloins
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions

1. Prepare the Coating: In one bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, place the flour, and in a third bowl, beat the eggs.
2. Coat the Chicken: Dredge each chicken tenderloin in flour, shaking off the excess. Dip into the beaten eggs, then coat well with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
3. Fry the Chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the coated chicken tenderloins. Cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
4. Serve: Remove from the skillet and let them drain on paper towels. Serve with lemon wedges and your favorite dipping sauce.

Spicy Chicken Tenderloin Tacos

Spicy chicken tenderloin tacos are a fantastic option for a quick and tasty weeknight meal. These tacos are bursting with flavor, thanks to the seasoned chicken and fresh toppings. They come together in no time, making them perfect for busy evenings.

The combination of tender chicken, zesty spices, and refreshing toppings creates a satisfying dish that everyone will love. Serve them with your favorite sides for a complete meal!

Ingredients

• 1 pound chicken tenderloins
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 8 small tortillas
• 1 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 1 avocado, sliced
• Lime wedges for serving

Instructions

1. Season the Chicken: In a bowl, combine olive oil, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken and toss to coat evenly.
2. Cook the Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and golden brown. Remove from heat and let rest for a minute.
3. Warm the Tortillas: In the same skillet, warm the tortillas for about 30 seconds on each side until soft and pliable.
4. Assemble the Tacos: Slice the cooked chicken and place it on the warm tortillas. Top with cilantro, diced tomatoes, and avocado. Squeeze lime juice over the top.
5. Serve: Enjoy your spicy chicken tenderloin tacos immediately with extra lime wedges on the side!

Honey Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry

Honey Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry is a delicious and quick meal that brings together tender chicken and vibrant veggies in a sweet and savory sauce. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights as it comes together in under 30 minutes, making it a go-to family favorite. The combination of honey and garlic creates a delightful flavor that pairs perfectly with rice or noodles.

With its colorful presentation and satisfying taste, this stir-fry is not only easy to make but also a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet. Plus, you can easily customize it with whatever veggies you have on hand!

Ingredients

• 1 pound chicken tenderloins, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 bell pepper, sliced
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup honey
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooked rice for serving

Instructions

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic, bell pepper, and broccoli to the skillet. Stir-fry for an additional 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
3. In a small bowl, combine the honey and soy sauce. Pour this mixture over the chicken and veggies. Stir well to coat everything evenly.
4. Add the cornstarch mixture to the skillet and stir until the sauce thickens, about 1-2 minutes.
5. Serve the stir-fry over cooked rice and enjoy your quick, homemade meal!

BBQ Chicken Tenderloin Wraps

BBQ Chicken Tenderloin Wraps are a quick and tasty option for busy weeknights. They combine juicy, tender chicken with fresh veggies, all wrapped up in a soft tortilla. The sweet and tangy BBQ sauce adds an extra punch that makes each bite delightful.

This recipe is simple to make and perfect for even the most hectic evenings. Plus, it’s customizable! You can add your favorite toppings or switch up the sauce to suit your taste. Get ready to whip up a delicious meal in no time!

Ingredients

• 1 pound chicken tenderloins
• 1 cup BBQ sauce
• 4 large tortillas
• 1 cup shredded lettuce
• 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
• 1/4 cup sliced red onion
• 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your grill or skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken tenderloins with salt and pepper.
2. Add olive oil to the skillet or grill. Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and no longer pink in the center.
3. Brush the BBQ sauce over the chicken during the last few minutes of cooking, allowing it to caramelize slightly.
4. Once cooked, remove the chicken from heat and let it rest for a few minutes. Slice the chicken into strips.
5. To assemble the wraps, lay down a tortilla, add shredded lettuce, tomatoes, red onion, and cheese. Top with the sliced BBQ chicken and any additional toppings you like.
6. Roll the tortilla tightly, slice in half if desired, and serve immediately with extra BBQ sauce on the side.

Coconut Curry Chicken Tenderloin

Coconut curry chicken tenderloin is a delightful dish that combines the rich, creamy flavors of coconut milk with aromatic spices. This recipe is not only mouthwatering but also incredibly simple to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The tender chicken, infused with spices, pairs beautifully with fresh vegetables, creating a colorful and satisfying meal.

The taste is a harmonious blend of sweet and savory, with a hint of warmth from the spices. Serve it over rice to soak up the delicious sauce, and you have a dinner that everyone will love, all ready in about 30 minutes!

Ingredients

• 1 pound chicken tenderloins
• 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
• 1 tablespoon curry powder
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro or mint for garnish
• Cooked rice for serving

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken tenderloins with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Sear until golden brown on both sides, about 5-6 minutes.
2. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add the chopped bell pepper and sauté for 2-3 minutes until slightly softened.
3. Stir in the curry powder and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. Pour in the coconut milk and add the pineapple chunks. Bring to a simmer.
4. Return the chicken to the skillet, cover, and let simmer for another 10 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
5. Serve hot over cooked rice, garnished with fresh cilantro or mint.