Description
This easy and flavorful Chicken Tenders recipe features tender mini fillets cooked in a buttery olive oil skillet with aromatic garlic, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Ready in just 15 minutes, it's perfect for a quick and delicious weeknight meal garnished with fresh parsley.
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: Add olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter to a pan or skillet over medium heat and let the butter melt completely.
- Season and Cook Chicken: Place the chicken tenders in the pan and season each side with paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook the chicken for 3 minutes on one side.
- Flip and Season Again: Turn the tenders over, season the other side, and cook for an additional 3 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
- Add Garlic and Butter: Move the chicken to make room in the pan, melt the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter, then add the minced garlic. Cook for about 30 seconds or until the garlic becomes fragrant.
- Season with Italian Herbs: Sprinkle the Italian seasoning over the chicken and garlic, stirring gently, and cook for another minute to infuse flavor.
- Deglaze the Pan: Pour 2 tablespoons of water into the pan to deglaze, scraping the bottom carefully to lift off any flavorful browned bits.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the pan from heat, garnish the chicken tenders with chopped fresh parsley, and serve warm.
Notes
- Use fresh garlic for the best flavor. Garlic powder can be substituted in a pinch but will be less aromatic.
- Make sure not to overcrowd the pan to cook the chicken evenly.
- Adjust seasoning to taste; paprika adds mild smokiness but can be increased for a stronger flavor.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute butter with extra olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative.
- Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
