When it comes to weeknight dinners, nothing beats a quick and flavorful dish that’s easy to whip up after a long day. My go-to has become this Easy Chicken Tenderloin Skillet. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a satisfying meal that your whole family will love. The combination of spices, olive oil, and a splash of lemon creates a dish that’s bright and delicious – it’s a recipe you’ll want in your regular rotation.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
This Easy Chicken Tenderloin Skillet is all about convenience without sacrificing flavor. The tenderloins cook up quickly, making this the perfect recipe for busy evenings. Plus, you likely have most of the ingredients on hand – making it a budget-friendly choice too! Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or looking for a healthy option, this dish is bound to impress.
"I made this for dinner last week, and my kids loved it! It was so easy to make and packed with flavor. I’ll definitely be making it again!"
Step-by-Step Overview
Making this skillet meal is as straightforward as it gets. You’ll season your chicken, quickly sear it, then finish it off with butter and lemon juice for that luscious, tangy flavor. Here’s how the process unfolds:
- Season the Chicken: Coat the tenderloins with your spices.
- Sear to Perfection: Cook them in olive oil until golden and cooked through.
- Butter & Lemon Finish: Add butter and lemon juice for a burst of flavor.
- Garnish & Serve: Toss with parsley and enjoy with your favorite sides.
What You’ll Need
To create this delicious dish, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken tenderloins
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Feel free to swap the spices for your favorites or use fresh herbs if you prefer. Chicken breast can also work in a pinch, although tenderloins will provide a more tender texture.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Season your chicken tenderloins evenly with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
- Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the seasoned tenderloins to the skillet. Sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are cooked through and golden.
- Lower the heat and add in butter and lemon juice. Toss the chicken to coat it well with the mixture.
- Take off the heat and sprinkle chopped parsley on top. Serve hot!
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Best Ways to Enjoy It
This Easy Chicken Tenderloin Skillet pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or even a creamy pasta. You can also serve it over rice or quinoa for a heartier meal. For a fresh twist, consider adding cherry tomatoes or sautéed spinach right into the skillet during the last few minutes of cooking.
Keeping Leftovers Fresh
After enjoying this delicious dish, you might have some leftovers. Store any extras in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Make sure to cool the chicken completely before sealing it. If you’re hoping to keep it longer, you can freeze the cooked tenderloins in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. Just remember to thaw them in the refrigerator before reheating!
Helpful Cooking Tips
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in olive oil, lemon juice, and spices for a few hours before cooking.
- Experiment with different herbs – thyme, rosemary, or even a pinch of chili powder for a kick!
Creative Twists
Feel free to get creative with this recipe! Here are a few ideas to switch things up:
- Herb Variations: Replace parsley with basil or cilantro for a fresh flair.
- Spice it Up: Add red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Get Saucy: Drizzle with a balsamic reduction or your favorite sauce before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to cook chicken tenderloins?
Cooking chicken tenderloins typically takes about 6-8 minutes on the stovetop, depending on their thickness. Always check for doneness using a thermometer.
Can I use other cuts of chicken?
Absolutely! If you don’t have tenderloins, chicken breasts or thighs are great alternatives, though cooking times may vary slightly.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
The best way to reheat chicken is in a skillet over low heat to prevent it from drying out. You can add a splash of chicken broth or water to keep the moisture in.
With this Easy Chicken Tenderloin Skillet in your recipe arsenal, you’ll have a quick and tasty go-to for any busy night! Enjoy cooking and, more importantly, enjoy sharing this delicious meal with your loved ones.
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Easy Chicken Tenderloin Skillet
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
A quick and flavorful skillet meal featuring chicken tenderloins, seasoned and seared to perfection, finished with butter and lemon juice.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken tenderloins
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Season your chicken tenderloins evenly with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
- Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the seasoned tenderloins to the skillet. Sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are cooked through and golden.
- Lower the heat and add in butter and lemon juice. Toss the chicken to coat it well with the mixture.
- Take off the heat and sprinkle chopped parsley on top. Serve hot!
Notes
Feel free to swap the spices for your favorites or use fresh herbs. Chicken breast can also work as a substitute.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: chicken, skillet, easy dinner, weeknight meal, quick recipe