When I think of weeknight dinners that blend simplicity with mouthwatering flavors, Easy Skillet Chicken Tenders come to mind. These tenderloins, sautéed with aromatic garlic and drizzled in quality olive oil, create a dish that’s not just quick to prepare but also incredibly satisfying. Picture this: a busy evening, and you want something delicious yet uncomplicated. This recipe fits the bill perfectly, making it a favorite in my kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

There’s something uniquely appealing about Easy Skillet Chicken Tenders. They are the embodiment of quick, fuss-free cooking without sacrificing flavor. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, they require minimal preparation and ingredients, making them a go-to for those hectic evenings when you still want to sit down to a hearty meal.

"This dish is a game changer! It effortlessly combines flavor with simplicity, and my kids absolutely love it!" — Satisfied Home Cook

What sets this recipe apart is how easily you can tailor it to your mood or the season. Whether you’re running late from work or hosting a casual family brunch, these chicken tenders will shine. They also lend themselves beautifully to creative sauces or side dishes, making them versatile enough for any occasion.

Step-by-Step Overview

Creating the perfect Easy Skillet Chicken Tenders is straightforward and requires just a few ingredients. Here’s how the process unfolds:

Prep the chicken tenderloins.
Sauté garlic in olive oil for flavor.
Cook the chicken until golden brown and cooked through.
Serve and enjoy!

What You’ll Need

To whip up this delightful dish, gather the following key ingredients:

Chicken tenderloins
Fresh garlic
Olive oil

For those looking to switch things up, you can use chicken breasts cut into strips, or even try different oils, such as avocado oil for a unique flavor profile.

Directions to Follow

Start by heating a drizzle of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Add minced garlic to the pan and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
Carefully place the chicken tenderloins into the skillet.
Cook for about 5 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
Check the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
Once done, remove from heat and let it rest for a couple of minutes before serving.

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Best Ways to Enjoy It

When it comes to serving Easy Skillet Chicken Tenders, the possibilities are endless. Try pairing them with a fresh garden salad for a light meal, or serve alongside creamy mashed potatoes for something heartier. You could even slice the tenders and toss them in a warm wrap with your favorite vegetables and sauces. For a fun twist, serve them as sliders on mini buns, perfect for game day.

Keeping Leftovers Fresh

If you happen to have leftovers (which is uncommon with this dish, considering how tasty it is), storing them is quite simple. Place the cooled chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, just reheat in a skillet over low heat until warmed through.

For longer storage, consider freezing the cooked tenders. Make sure they are placed in a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible. They can be enjoyed from the freezer for up to three months.

Helpful Cooking Tips

Always ensure your skillet is hot before adding the garlic. This helps to infuse the oil with flavor right from the start.
Don’t overcrowd the pan; it’s better to cook the chicken in batches if you have more than one serving.
Consider marinating the chicken tenderloins briefly in olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs for added flavor before cooking.

Creative Twists

Looking to switch things up? Here are some flavorful variations to try:

Herb Infusion: Add chopped fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary along with the garlic for an aromatic boost.
Spicy Kick: Toss in some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the skillet for heat.
Sweet Glaze: Finish the tenders with a drizzle of honey or maple syrup for a sweet-salty contrast.

Common Questions

How long does it take to make Easy Skillet Chicken Tenders?
This recipe takes about 20-25 minutes from start to finish, making it a speedy dinner option.

Can I use frozen chicken tenderloins?
Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely before cooking to ensure even cooking.

What should I serve with chicken tenders?
Options are endless! Try pairing them with roasted vegetables, a simple side salad, or even pasta for a full meal.

This recipe for Easy Skillet Chicken Tenders is not just quick; it’s also a delightful blend of flavors that everyone will love. With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll have a dish that brings joy to your dinner table any night of the week!

Easy Skillet Chicken Tenders

Author: majestyrecipes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten-Free

Print Recipe

Description

Quick and flavorful chicken tenderloins sautéed with garlic and olive oil, perfect for a weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

1 pound chicken tenderloins
2 cloves fresh garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Add minced garlic to the pan and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
Carefully place the chicken tenderloins into the skillet.
Cook for about 5 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
Check the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
Once done, remove from heat and let it rest for a couple of minutes before serving.

Notes

For variations, try marinating the chicken in olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs, or add spices like red pepper flakes for heat.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Sautéing
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 350
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 300mg
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 5g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 30g
Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: skillet chicken tenders, quick dinner, easy recipe, chicken, family meal