25 Chicken Tenderloin Recipes You Will Love

I absolutely love Chicken Tenderloin Recipes, especially the ones on this list, and I think you will too! Tenderloins are a lean source of protein, making them a great option for a healthy and balanced meal. You can cook them in a variety of ways, such as grilling, baking, sautéing, air frying or pan frying. This versatile meat can be used in a wide range of recipes. Plus this cut of poultry is usually smaller and thinner, meaning they cook faster and are easier to handle. That’s why all these recipes are fantastic meals that can be ready in a short amount of time. 

Tenderloins are a popular kid-friendly option for the whole family too. They can be customized to fit different tastes and preferences, such as adding different seasonings, marinades, or sauces. I also adore how they are affordable for anyone on a budget. Basically, this list is essential for busy people, weeknight meals, family dinners, or meal prep. There are so many tasty ideas to choose from, ranging from simple and classic to more complex and creative.

1. Garlic Butter Chicken Tenders

There are so many reasons why you should make garlic butter chicken tenderloin! They have a delicious flavor for starters. It is a satisfying meal that is sure to please your taste buds. The garlic and butter combination results in a rich and savory flavor that compliments the mild taste of the chicken. With just a few simple ingredients, you can have a delicious meal on the table in no time. Garlic butter chicken is a versatile meal too. You can serve it with pasta, rice, or vegetables, or use it as a filling for sandwiches or wraps.

2. Chick-Fil-A Chicken Tenders

Chicken tenderloin recipes like these copycat tenders are coated in a yummy breading that includes a variety of seasonings and spices, such as paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper. The crispy breading adds a fabulous crunch to the juicy and tender chicken inside. This recipe is so easy to make too, that’s why it’s so perfect for busy weeknights. Simply coat the chicken in the breading, bake or fry, and you’re done! Plus they can be served as a main course with a side of vegetables or as a tasty appetizer with a dipping sauce. 

3. Oven Baked Chicken Tenders

Chicken tenderloin is a lean source of protein. By baking it and using oils and fats in moderation, you can add flavor without too many unnecessary calories. This dish is tasty, easy to make, and excellent for any occasion. Kids love the mild taste and the fun, finger-friendly shape of chicken tenders too. Plus, making them at home allows you to control the ingredients and avoid any unwanted additives or preservatives that may be found in store-bought versions. This baked chicken recipe is a delicious, easy-to-make, and versatile dish that can be enjoyed by both children and adults alike.

4. Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders

Honey garlic chicken tenders are a delicious tenderloin recipe. The combination of honey and garlic creates the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors. That’s why I love making this delicious dish. The tender and juicy cut of chicken is easy to cook and is perfect for soaking up the sweet and savory sauce. When cooked properly, the chicken tenders have a crispy and crunchy texture on the outside, which provides a nice contrast to the meat. They can be enjoyed on their own as a main dish, or served as an appetizer with a dipping sauce.

5. Air Fryer Chicken Tenders 

This air fryer dish is very simple to make, and can be prepared in a variety of ways. Making it in your air fryer results in a delicious crispy outer texture with savory flavors. They are crispy, juicy, and super easy to make. In just a few minutes, you’ll have perfectly cooked chicken tenders that are a healthier alternative to deep-frying. They’re great as a snack or a meal, and you can dip them in your favorite sauce for an extra burst of flavor. Trust me, once you try air fryer chicken tenders, you’ll never go back to the old way of cooking them!

6. Crispy Ranch Chicken Tenders

If you enjoy the flavor of ranch seasoning and crispy chicken, then making Crispy Ranch Chicken Tenders could be a great idea for you! Here are a few reasons why you will love this chicken tenderloin recipe. Ranch seasoning adds a tangy and savory flavor to the chicken tenders, making them a tasty and satisfying meal. The coating creates a crispy and crunchy texture, which is very scrumptious to bite into. Serve them as a main dish, or sliced and served on a salad or in a wrap for a delicious and satisfying lunch. 

7. Air Fryer Ranch Chicken Tenders

Air fryer ranch chicken tenders are a delicious and flavorful twist on classic chicken tenders. To make them, you start by coating your chicken tenders in a mixture of flour, ranch seasoning, and breadcrumbs. Then, pop them in the air fryer and let them cook until crispy and golden brown. The ranch seasoning adds a tangy and herbaceous flavor to the chicken that pairs perfectly with your favorite dipping sauce. Plus, because they’re cooked in the air fryer, they’re a healthier alternative to deep-fried chicken tenders. They’re a tasty and easy meal or snack that everyone will love!

8. Sticky Chicken Tenders

Sweet and spicy sticky chicken tenders are a popular dish that combines several delicious flavors and textures. They are a mouthwatering treat that you won’t be able to resist. The perfect balance of sweet and savory, these tender and juicy pieces of chicken are coated in a sticky sauce that will have you licking your fingers clean. To make them, simply coat your chicken tenders before baking them in the oven. While they’re cooking, prepare the sticky sauce separately. Once the chicken is cooked, toss it in the sticky sauce and watch as it becomes irresistibly delicious. Serve with rice and vegetables for a complete meal or enjoy as a tasty snack!

9. Crispy Buffalo Chicken Tenders

Chicken tenderloin recipes that are easy to make are the best choice for busy weeknights. This meal is simple, sweet, spicy, and a little bit sticky! It is a delicious and simple meal that combines amazing flavors with a tender and juicy texture. That’s why it makes for a scrumptious and comforting meal. This particular recipe is baked in the oven with homemade sauce. My favorite thing to do is dip them in tangy Ranch dressing. 

10. Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites

Garlic parmesan chicken bites are the perfect blend of bold flavors and juicy chicken. These bite-sized pieces of meat are coated in a crispy outer layer and bursting with savory garlic and nutty parmesan flavors. They are perfect for game day, a party appetizer, or even as a fun twist on a family meal. Plus they are easy to make and cook up quickly, making them a great option for a weeknight dinner. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce or toss them in a salad for a satisfying and delicious meal. These chicken bites are sure to be a hit with anyone who loves bold and satisfying flavors!

11. Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders

Try chicken tenderloin recipes with coconut breading! Crispy coconut chicken tenders make a mouthwatering, quick and easy lunch or dinner option. They are perfect for busy days when you don’t have time to cook a four course meal. They are also a great option for when you want something healthy and filling. The recipe itself can be customized with different seasonings, such as garlic or paprika, to suit individual preferences. Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders are a dish that is enjoyed by many people and can be a crowd-pleaser for parties and events.

12. Honey BBQ Chicken Tenders

Honey BBQ chicken tenders are a type of chicken dish that is coated in a blend of honey and barbecue sauce, and then breaded and fried until crispy. The chicken pieces are marinated in a sweet and tangy barbecue sauce made with honey, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, and other seasonings. Everyone in the family will enjoy the combination of sweet and savory flavors. This classic American dish is loved by many for its delicious taste and versatility. It can be served as a main course for a family dinner, as a party appetizer, or as a meal prep option for busy weekdays.

13. Copycat Cracker Barrel Grilled Chicken Tenderloins

Copycat chicken tenderloin recipes like this one will knock your socks off! If you enjoy the taste of Cracker Barrel’s Grilled Chicken Tenderloins then grab up these simple pantry staple ingredients and get cookin! Cooking your own meals at home can be a cost-effective option compared to eating out. Using your oven to make them can be a budget-friendly alternative to other cooking methods also. 

14. Air Fryer Cracker Barrel Chicken Tenderloins

Using an air fryer to cook the Cracker Barrel Chicken Tenderloins can result in a healthier meal compared to frying them in oil. The air fryer uses hot air to cook the food, resulting in crispy and juicy chicken without excess oil. Plus it is a quick and easy way to cook meat with minimal preparation and cooking time. This could be extra helpful if you have a busy schedule and need to prepare lunch quickly. So if you are a fan of Cracker Barrel’s chicken tenders, making them at home using an air fryer could be a fun and tasty way to enjoy them. You can have the comfort of a familiar meal without leaving your house.

15. Buttermilk Chicken Tenders

People love chicken tenderloin recipes like Buttermilk Chicken Tenders for good reasons! For example the flavor. They have a tangy, slightly sour flavor that everyone really loves. The buttermilk helps tenderize the chicken, making it extra juicy and flavorful. It also helps create a crispy and crunchy exterior on the meat while keeping inside moist. They can be served as a main dish or used in a variety of recipes, such as sandwiches, pasta, and casseroles. 

16. Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice

Everyone loves Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice for dinner! This dish is made with sautéed chicken and garlicky butter resulting in a rich, savory flavor that is enhanced by the addition of Parmesan cheese and herbs. The rice adds a complementary flavor to the dish that pairs well with the chicken and sauce. Plus this is a comforting meal that can be enjoyed any time of year. The combination of tender chicken, buttery sauce, and flavorful rice is a crowd-pleaser! And it can be prepared in less than an hour. The chicken can be sautéed on the stovetop, while the rice can be cooked separately in a rice cooker or on the stovetop.

17. Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenderloin 

Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenderloin combines the smoky and salty flavor of bacon with the succulent flavor of the chicken. This comforting meal is easy to make with minimal ingredients! You can bake it in the oven, grill it, or cook it on the stovetop, making it a versatile and convenient option. Who doesn’t love crispy bacon anyway? My favorite way to serve it is will steamed vegetables and a baked potato. 

18. Pan-Fried Chicken Tenders

I love chicken tenderloin recipes that are pan-fried because they have crispy skin and tender interior that can be seasoned with a variety of herbs and spices! You can really create a range of flavors that everyone enjoys. They can be customized with different sauces and dips to suit individual preferences. They’re perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a party appetizer. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce or as part of a larger meal with sides like mashed potatoes and green beans. Once you try these pan-fried chicken tenders, you’ll be hooked!

19. Homemade Shake And Bake Tenders 

Homemade Shake And Bake Tenders are a tasty and easy meal that you can whip up in no time. This crispy chicken is coated in a flavorful blend of spices and breadcrumbs, making them the perfect option for a quick and cozy dinner. To make them, simply combine breadcrumbs, and spices in a bag, shake your chicken tenders in the mixture and bake them in the oven until they’re crispy and golden brown. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce and some veggies on the side for a complete meal that the whole family will love. These homemade tenders are sure to become a household favorite! So get creative in the kitchen and make this delicious meal from scratch.

20. Instant Pot Chicken Tenders

Instant Pot chicken tenders are a convenient and quick way to make delicious and juicy chicken. With the help of the Instant Pot, you can have a perfectly cooked dish in just a matter of minutes. Simply season your meat with your favorite spices, add them to the Instant Pot with a bit of chicken broth, and set it to cook on high pressure for just a few minutes. Once they’re cooked, you can either serve them as they are or dice them up for a burrito or casserole. These tenders make a tasty and easy meal that you can customize to your liking. They can be served as-is, or with a dipping sauce on the side. Some popular dipping sauce options include honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or ranch dressing.

21. Blackened Chicken Tenders

Blackened chicken tenders are a spicy and flavorful way to jazz up your chicken game. These crispy and juicy pieces of chicken are coated in a blend of spices that’s rubbed onto the meat before it’s air fried to perfection. Served with a cool and creamy dipping sauce, blackened tenders are a delicious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for those who love a little bit of heat. Give this recipe a try and prepare to have your taste buds dance with delight! This is a healthier recipe that uses less oil than deep fried plus it’s full of spicy and flavorful seasonings that everyone will love. 

22. Qdoba Chicken Tenders

If you’re looking for unique chicken tenderloin recipes look no further! Qdoba-style Chicken Tenders are known for their delicious and flavorful marinade, which includes lime juice, garlic, and a variety of spices. Making them at home allows you to customize the marinade to your liking and experiment if you want. You also control the ingredients and can make them healthier than the restaurant version. For example, you can adjust the amount of salt and oil. It’s a cost-effective option compared to buying them at a restaurant too. You can buy chicken in bulk and make a large batch for meal prep or meal planning. 

23. Cornflake Chicken Tenders with Honey Mustard

Cornflake Chicken Tenders with Honey Mustard are coated in crushed cornflakes, which gives them a crispy and crunchy texture. The cornflake coating is also versatile, allowing you to add different seasonings and spices to customize the flavor. This recipe involves an easy prep process too. They are ready in a short amount of time with minimal effort. Plus when you compare them to traditional fried chicken tenders, these are a healthier option because they are baked in the oven instead of fried. The Honey Mustard Dip is a sweet and tangy sauce that complements the crispy tenders perfectly. Overall, this dish is a fun and scrumptious way to enjoy a homemade meal. 

24. Spicy Thai Chicken Tenders

Spicy Thai chicken tenders are a fusion of bold and exotic flavors that will take your taste buds on a journey to Southeast Asia. These tender and juicy pieces of chicken are coated in a spicy and aromatic blend of seasonings that pack a flavorful punch. The combination of sweet, sour, and spicy notes makes this dish a delicious and satisfying meal that’s sure to leave you wanting more. Whether you’re looking to spice up your weeknight dinner routine or add a new appetizer to your party spread, these spicy Thai tenders are the perfect addition to any menu.

25. Nashville Hot Chicken Tenders

Nashville Hot Chicken Tenders are known for their spicy and flavorful coating, which is made with a blend of cayenne pepper, paprika, and other spices. The result is a crispy and spicy coating that is sure to satisfy those who love the heat. This regional dish from Nashville, Tennessee, can be made right in your own kitchen anywhere in the world. Making it at home allows you to experience the unique flavors and culture of the region.

Plus it is a relatively simple process that involves coating the chicken tenders in a spicy seasoning mixture and frying them until they are crispy and golden brown. Overall, making Nashville Hot Chicken Tenders can be a delicious and exciting way to enjoy a unique and flavorful meal. It’s easy to make, versatile, and a great way to try a new recipe and add some excitement to your meals.