Garlic Butter Chicken Tenders

It’s 6pm and you need dinner fast. You want something juicy, flavorful, and family-friendly without spending hours in the kitchen. These Garlic Butter Chicken Tenders are your new secret weapon for busy nights.

This recipe delivers succulent chicken with a rich, savory sauce. It’s simple enough for a Tuesday but tastes like a treat. You’ll love how quickly this comes together with basic pantry staples.

Why You’ll Make This Again

This dish is the ultimate quick weeknight dinner solution. It takes only 30 minutes from start to finish. You don’t need fancy equipment or hard-to-find ingredients to make it.

The combination of garlic and butter is a timeless crowd-pleaser. It’s perfect for kids who might be picky eaters. You can easily scale the recipe up for a larger family meal.

How This Comes Together

We start by searing the chicken to get a golden crust. This locks in all the juices and flavor. Then, we build a one-pan sauce using the same skillet.

The garlic and lemon juice add a bright, fresh finish. Beginners will find this process very straightforward and stress-free. There is minimal cleanup since everything happens in one pan.

What You’ll Need

Gather these simple ingredients from your pantry and fridge. Fresh garlic makes a huge difference here!

• 1.5 lbs chicken tenderloins
• 1 tsp salt
• 0.5 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp paprika
• 0.5 tsp onion powder
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tbsp lemon juice

Step-By-Step Directions

1. Season the chicken tenderloins evenly with salt, pepper, paprika, and onion powder.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Place chicken in the skillet and cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side.
4. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
5. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
6. Lower the heat to medium and add the butter to the skillet.
7. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for 60 seconds.
8. Stir in the lemon juice and fresh parsley.
9. Return the chicken to the skillet and toss to coat thoroughly.

How To Serve It

These Garlic Butter Chicken Tenders look beautiful served right out of the pan. Drizzle any extra sauce from the skillet over the top. It adds a glossy, professional finish to the plate.

Pair these tenders with fluffy white rice or buttery mashed potatoes. They also go great with a simple green salad for a lighter meal. For a kid-approved option, serve them with steamed broccoli or corn.

Leftovers & Storage

Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay fresh and tasty for up to four days. To reheat, use a skillet over low heat with a splash of water.

Avoid the microwave if possible to keep the chicken from getting rubbery. You can also freeze these tenders for up to two months. Just thaw them in the fridge overnight before reheating for lunch.

Make It Even Better (Pro Tips)

• Do not crowd the skillet so the chicken sears properly.
• Use freshly minced garlic instead of the jarred kind for better flavor.
• Pat the chicken dry with paper towels before seasoning for a better crust.
• Always use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking the tenderloins.
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you want a little heat.
• Deglaze the pan with the lemon juice to scrape up tasty bits.
• Let the chicken rest for two minutes before serving to keep it juicy.

Easy Ways To Change It Up

• Swap parsley for fresh cilantro and lime juice for a zesty twist.
• Add a dusting of Parmesan cheese at the very end for extra richness.
• Toss in some halved cherry tomatoes during the last minute of cooking.
• Use chicken breasts cut into strips if you don’t have tenderloins.

Quick Questions

Can I use frozen chicken tenders?

Yes, but you must thaw them completely first. Pat them very dry so the seasoning sticks and they sear well. Frozen chicken may release more moisture, so keep the heat high.

What if I don’t have a meat thermometer?

The chicken should be opaque all the way through. Cut into the thickest part to check for any pink. However, a thermometer is the best way to ensure juicy results every time.

I hope you love these tenders as much as my family does. They are the perfect solution for those nights when time is short. Give them a try tonight!

— Ethan

Garlic Butter Chicken Tenders

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Calories: 380

Ingredients Method

Ingredients

  

• 1.5 lbs chicken tenderloins
• 1 tsp sal t
• 0.5 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp paprik a
• 0.5 tsp onion powder
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic , minced
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tbsp lemon juice

Method

 

1. Season the chicken tenderloins evenly with salt, pepper, paprika, and onion powder.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Place chicken in the skillet and cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
4. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
5. Lower the heat to medium and add the butter to the skillet.
6. Once the butter has melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for approximately 60 seconds until fragrant.
7. Stir in the lemon juice and fresh parsley.
8. Return the chicken to the skillet and toss thoroughly to coat in the garlic butter sauce before serving.