Description
This Chicken Tenders recipe features tender, juicy chicken mini fillets pan-cooked to perfection with paprika, garlic, and Italian seasoning. It’s a quick and flavorful dish ideal for a nutritious weeknight dinner served warm with a fresh parsley garnish.
Ingredients
Chicken Tenders
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter (divided)
- 1 pound (450g) chicken tenderloins (chicken mini fillets)
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 4 cloves garlic (minced or crushed)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the pan: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil and melt 1 tablespoon butter in a pan or skillet over medium heat to create a flavorful cooking base.
- Season the chicken: Add the chicken tenders to the pan and season with paprika, salt, and black pepper evenly on one side.
- Cook chicken first side: Cook the chicken tenders for 3 minutes on one side, allowing them to develop a golden crust while absorbing the seasoning.
- Flip and season other side: Turn the chicken over, season the other side with paprika, salt, and pepper, and cook for an additional 3 minutes to ensure even cooking.
- Add garlic and butter: Push the chicken to the side of the pan. Melt the remaining 1 tablespoon butter in the cleared space and add the minced or crushed garlic, cooking for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not burned.
- Season with herbs: Sprinkle Italian seasoning over the chicken and garlic mixture, then cook everything together for 1 more minute to meld the flavors.
- Deglaze the pan: Pour 2 tablespoons of water into the pan to deglaze, scraping up any flavorful browned bits stuck to the bottom to enrich the sauce.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from heat, garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil leaves, and serve the chicken tenders warm for an aromatic and delicious meal.
Notes
- For extra flavor, marinate chicken tenders in paprika and Italian seasoning for 30 minutes before cooking.
- Do not overcook chicken to keep it juicy; internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Use fresh garlic for the best aroma and taste.
- Adjust seasoning to taste based on dietary preferences.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American