Garlic Butter Chicken Tenders

There’s something incredibly satisfying about tender, juicy chicken pieces infused with rich garlic butter flavor. This Garlic Butter Chicken Tenders recipe is a perfect weeknight dinner that comes together quickly with simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. The combination of paprika, garlic, and Italian seasoning creates a mouthwatering aroma and a savory taste that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week, these chicken tenders are sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

This Garlic Butter Chicken Tenders recipe stands out because it’s easy, flavorful, and versatile. The chicken tenderloins cook quickly and stay moist thanks to the butter and olive oil, while the garlic and spices add robust flavor. You don’t need any fancy equipment or hard-to-find ingredients, making this recipe perfect for busy cooks. Plus, it’s a great way to elevate simple chicken tenders into something special that tastes like it took hours to prepare.

The best part? This recipe is customizable and pairs well with a wide variety of sides, from roasted vegetables and mashed potatoes to fresh salads and rice dishes. It’s a simple yet impressive meal that fits seamlessly into any dinner routine.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil – for cooking the chicken and adding a subtle fruity flavor
• 2 tablespoons butter, divided – brings richness and helps create a golden crust
• 1 pound (450g) chicken tenderloins (chicken mini fillets) – tender and quick-cooking pieces of chicken
• 2 teaspoons paprika – adds a smoky, slightly sweet flavor and vibrant color
• ½ teaspoon salt – enhances all the flavors
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper – provides mild heat and depth
• 4 cloves garlic, minced or crushed – infuses the dish with intense garlic aroma and taste
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – a blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme for an herby undertone
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped – for garnish and a fresh pop of color

How To Make Garlic Butter Chicken Tenders

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by patting your chicken tenderloins dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick better and ensures a nice sear. In a small bowl, combine the paprika, salt, and black pepper. Sprinkle this spice mix evenly over the chicken pieces, rubbing gently to coat them well.

Step 2: Heat the Pan

Place a large skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil along with 1 tablespoon of butter. Let the butter melt completely and the oil heat up until it’s shimmering but not smoking. This combination of oil and butter creates the perfect cooking environment, preventing the butter from burning while adding flavor.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken Tenders

Add the seasoned chicken tenderloins to the hot pan in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan – cook in batches if necessary. Let the chicken cook without moving it for about 3-4 minutes on one side until it’s golden brown and starts to release easily from the pan.

Flip the chicken over and cook for another 3-4 minutes on the other side until cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.

Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

Reduce the heat to low. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter to the skillet. Once melted, add the minced garlic and Italian seasoning. Stir frequently, cooking for about 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and lightly golden. Be careful not to burn the garlic as it will turn bitter.

Step 5: Combine and Finish

Return the cooked chicken tenderloins to the skillet, tossing them gently in the garlic butter sauce to coat thoroughly. Allow the chicken to warm in the sauce for a minute or two so the flavors meld beautifully.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Transfer the garlic butter chicken tenders to a serving dish. Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the top for a burst of color and fresh flavor. Serve immediately with your favorite sides.

Expert Tips

• Dry your chicken: Patting the chicken dry before seasoning helps achieve a better sear and crispier edges.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook the chicken in batches if needed to avoid steaming instead of searing.
• Use fresh garlic: Fresh garlic provides a more vibrant flavor than pre-minced or powdered garlic.
• Control heat carefully: Keep the heat at medium to medium-low when cooking butter and garlic to prevent burning.
• Check doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe and juicy results.
• Make extra sauce: If you love garlic butter sauce, double the butter and garlic quantities for a saucier dish.

Variations and Customizations

• Spicy kick: Add ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix for heat.
• Creamy garlic sauce: Stir in 2 tablespoons of cream or coconut cream to the garlic butter sauce for a luscious finish.
• Herb swap: Use fresh thyme, rosemary, or basil instead of Italian seasoning for different flavor profiles.
• Lemon zest: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end for brightness.
• Parmesan topping: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the chicken just before serving for a cheesy twist.
• Gluten-free option: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, perfect for those with dietary restrictions.

How to Store Leftovers

Store any leftover garlic butter chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently in a skillet over medium-low heat to maintain moisture and flavor. Avoid using the microwave if possible, as it can dry out the chicken. Leftover tenders also make a great addition to salads, wraps, or sandwiches the next day.

FAQ

Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenderloins?

Yes! You can use thinly sliced chicken breasts, but be sure to pound them to an even thickness to help them cook evenly and remain tender.

Is it okay to use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?

While fresh garlic provides the best flavor and aroma, you can substitute 1 teaspoon of garlic powder if you don’t have fresh garlic on hand. Add it when seasoning the chicken rather than in the butter sauce.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely! Replace the butter with a dairy-free alternative such as vegan butter or additional olive oil. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.

What sides go well with garlic butter chicken tenders?

These chicken tenders pair beautifully with a variety of sides such as steamed vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice pilaf, garlic bread, or a fresh green salad for a lighter meal.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Chicken Tenders are a quick, simple, and incredibly flavorful dish that can easily become a go-to for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. With just a handful of pantry staples, you can create juicy, tender chicken enveloped in a rich garlic butter sauce that tastes like it took hours to prepare. The versatility of this recipe means it can be adapted to your taste preferences and dietary needs, making it a kitchen staple you’ll return to again and again. Give this recipe a try today and enjoy a comforting, delicious meal that everyone will love!