Chicken Tender

Gallus gallus domesticus (poultry source) Poultry, Meat

Chicken Tender Poultry, Meat

At a Glance

  • Category Poultry, Meat

The Forktionary Angle

"Its inherent tenderness and rapid cooking properties make it ideal for quick meals and kid-friendly dishes, but careful cooking is vital to prevent dryness."

Definition

The long, lean strip of meat located underneath the chicken breast, prized for its tenderness and quick cooking time.

Cook Time Cooks rapidly, often within 3-5 minutes per side.
Internal Temp Cook to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Protein Content High in lean protein, typically 20-25g per 4 oz serving.

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Chicken Tender are:

Mild Savory Lean Umami

Chef’s Secret

Brine chicken tenders for 20-30 minutes in a mild salt solution (1 tbsp salt per 1 cup water) before cooking to ensure maximum juiciness and flavor retention.

Best Substitutes

Chicken Breast

may need to be cut into strips
Ratio 1:1

Pork Tenderloin

different flavor
Ratio 1:1

Tofu Strips

for vegetarian
Ratio 1:1

Buying Guide

Look for plump, pinkish-white tenders with no strong odor. Avoid any with discolored spots.

Recipes Using Chicken Tender

Preparation Chinese 60 Minutes Or Less Asian

5 Minute General Tsos Chicken

Craving General Tso's but short on time? This recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor in just minutes! Using frozen chicken tenders as a clever shortcut, you'll enjoy crispy, flavorful chicken and perfectly steamed broccoli, all without spending hours in the kitchen. A simple sauce elevates this dish to new heights – get ready for a takeout-beating meal the whole family will love!

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5 Ingredients Or Less American Finger Food North American

Baked Chicken Tenders

Crispy, juicy baked chicken tenders ready in under 30 minutes! This easy recipe skips the deep fryer for a healthier, equally delicious weeknight meal. Perfect served atop a fresh salad with homemade honey mustard (recipe included!), or alongside classic french fries. Endless possibilities for customization!

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Course Main Dish Time To Make Chicken

Baked Fiery Chicken Strips

Craving those crispy, spicy chicken strips you love from restaurants, but want a healthier option? This baked version delivers the fiery flavor and satisfying crunch without the guilt! Inspired by Taste of Home Cooking School, this recipe is quick, easy, and perfect as an appetizer or a light meal. Get ready for a flavor explosion!

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Pasta Rice And Grains Spanish Long Grain Rice Main Ingredient

Big Sky Paella

Transport yourself to sunny Spain with this vibrant Big Sky Paella! This easy one-pan wonder combines succulent chicken, spicy chorizo, and plump shrimp in a bed of saffron-infused rice. A touch of heat, a burst of fresh herbs, and a squeeze of lemon create a symphony of flavors that will warm you from the inside out. Perfect for a themed dinner party or a weeknight treat, this recipe is easily customizable – add clams, mussels, or oregano to make it your own! Get ready for perfectly toasted rice and a taste of authentic Spanish cuisine.

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Oven Time To Make Meat Number Of Servings

Avocado And Chicken Melts

Craving a delicious and effortless meal? These Avocado & Chicken Melts are your answer! This recipe transforms leftover chicken and ripe avocados into a mouthwatering, cheesy delight. Perfect for a quick brunch, satisfying lunch, or easy dinner, this recipe is customizable to your liking. Add a zing with crushed garlic, a fresh burst with sliced tomatoes, or use pre-shredded chicken for ultimate convenience. Whether you're using leftover roasted chicken or fresh from the deli, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.

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Course Easy Number Of Servings Time To Make

Authentic Indian Chicken Curry

Unlock the secrets to a vibrant, flavorful Indian chicken curry! This fresca, saucy recipe is a family heirloom, passed down through generations. Unlike other generic curries, this recipe delivers a burst of authentic Indian spices and tender chicken, perfect for a weeknight meal. Serve with fluffy white rice or fragrant basmati for a truly unforgettable experience. Omit the butter for a healthier twist, without sacrificing any deliciousness! Get ready to impress your family and friends with this easy-to-follow recipe.

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4 Hours Or Less African Savory Pies 4 Hours Or Less

Awesome Crock Pot Chicken Pot Pie Soup

Comfort food just got easier! This creamy, dreamy Crock Pot Chicken Pot Pie Soup is budget-friendly, low-fat, and ready in under 2 hours. Made with simple, store-brand ingredients, this recipe is a delicious weeknight winner. Skip the fuss and enjoy all the flavors of classic chicken pot pie in a hearty, satisfying soup.

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Preparation Poultry Main Ingredient Time To Make

Balsamic Chicken With Sun Dried Tomatoes And Mushrooms

This 25-minute recipe elevates simple chicken breasts into a flavor-packed masterpiece! Tender chicken is marinated in a tangy balsamic vinaigrette, then pan-seared to perfection. Sweet sun-dried tomatoes and earthy mushrooms create a rich and savory sauce, complemented by fresh thyme and a sprinkle of feta. Serve this restaurant-quality dish with cranberry beans and parsleyed potatoes for a complete and satisfying meal. Inspired by Weight Watchers.

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Healthy Healthy Low Cholesterol Chicken

Asian Noodles With Chicken And Scallions

A quick and easy 30-minute one-dish meal! This recipe features tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and perfectly cooked noodles tossed in a savory oyster and hoisin sauce. Garnished with sesame seeds and scallions, it's a delicious and satisfying Asian-inspired dinner that's perfect for a weeknight meal.

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Cuisine Preparation Occasion Pasta Rice And Grains

Belinda's Version Of Carino's Chicken Scaloppini

Craving Carino's Chicken Scaloppini but don't want to leave the house? This recipe is a delicious copycat version, inspired by a Macaroni Grill recipe and tweaked to perfection by Belinda! We've captured the essence of Carino's famous dish, omitting mushrooms (but feel free to add them!) for a flavor explosion that will have you saying 'wow!' Get ready for juicy chicken, savory sauce, and a taste of Italy in under 30 minutes.

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60 Minutes Or Less Course Vegetables Meat

4 Step Zesty Garlic Chicken Veggies

Low-fat, low-sodium, and incredibly easy! This 4-step recipe delivers a burst of zesty garlic flavor in under an hour. Juicy chicken and tender veggies tossed in a light and flavorful sauce, served over pasta. Perfect for a quick and healthy weeknight dinner!

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Pasta Italian Pasta Main Ingredient

Alfredo Fettuccine With Chicken And Broccoli

Indulge in this irresistible Creamy Alfredo Fettuccine with Chicken and Broccoli! Forget everything you thought you knew about white pasta sauce – this recipe is a game-changer. Tender chicken and crisp broccoli are tossed in a luxuriously creamy Alfredo sauce, coating perfectly cooked fettuccine. Even picky eaters will be begging for more! This family-favorite dish is quick, easy, and unbelievably delicious.

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Finger Food Dinner Party Meat Food Processor Blender

Almond Crusted Chicken Fingers

Ready in 60 minutes, these crispy Almond Crusted Chicken Fingers are the perfect solution for a quick and delicious weeknight meal! Enjoy juicy chicken coated in a crunchy almond crust – a satisfying and flavorful recipe that's surprisingly easy to make. Perfect for busy weeknights!

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Kid Friendly Cuisine Kid Friendly 60 Minutes Or Less

Monkey's Chicken Fingers

Get ready to experience the crispiest, juiciest chicken fingers you've ever tasted! Inspired by a monkey's culinary masterpiece (yes, really!), this recipe delivers perfectly crunchy exteriors and incredibly tender interiors. These golden-brown delights are perfect for a family dinner, game day snack, or even as a delicious salad topping. Easy to follow instructions and a flavor explosion await!

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Meat Gluten Free Equipment Low In Something

Addictive Chicken Tenders One Taste And You Re Addicted

These crispy, juicy chicken tenders are a low-carb dream come true! Perfect for satisfying cravings without sacrificing flavor. My husband is on a low-carb diet, and he's completely obsessed – we make these at least once a week! They're incredibly easy to prepare, and the result is unbelievably delicious. Get ready for a flavor explosion!

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