Pan-Seared Chicken Tenderloin Recipe

Chicken tenderloins: These are the tender strips of meat located on the underside of the chicken breast. They cook quickly and remain juicy.

Olive oil: Used for cooking the chicken, it adds a rich flavor and helps achieve a golden brown sear.

Salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the chicken.

Black pepper: Adds a mild heat and depth of flavor to the dish.

Garlic powder: Provides a subtle garlic flavor without the need for fresh garlic.

To ensure your chicken tenderloins are perfectly cooked, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This guarantees that the chicken is cooked through while remaining juicy and tender. Additionally, avoid overcrowding the skillet; cook the chicken in batches if necessary to allow for even browning and proper heat distribution.

• chicken tenderloins - Substitute with turkey tenderloins: Turkey tenderloins have a similar texture and flavor profile, making them a suitable alternative.

• chicken tenderloins - Substitute with pork tenderloins: Pork tenderloins can be used for a slightly different flavor but similar tenderness.

• olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a high smoke point and a mild flavor, making it a good alternative for pan-searing.

• olive oil - Substitute with grapeseed oil: Grapeseed oil is neutral in flavor and also has a high smoke point, suitable for searing.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a salty and umami flavor, though it will also add a bit of moisture.

• salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used as a direct substitute for regular salt, offering a slightly different mineral content.

• black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper provides a similar heat but with a slightly different flavor profile.

• black pepper - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper will add more heat and a different flavor, so use sparingly.

• garlic powder - Substitute with fresh garlic: Fresh garlic can be used for a more intense and aromatic garlic flavor.

• garlic powder - Substitute with onion powder: Onion powder can provide a different but complementary flavor if garlic is not available.

• Allow the chicken tenderloins to cool completely before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can lead to soggy chicken.
• Place the cooled chicken tenderloins in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap. This will keep them fresh and prevent any unwanted odors from seeping in.
• Store the chicken tenderloins in the refrigerator if you plan to consume them within 3-4 days. This ensures they remain safe to eat and maintain their flavor.
• For longer storage, place the chicken tenderloins in a freezer-safe bag or container. Be sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
• Label the container or bag with the date so you can keep track of how long the chicken tenderloins have been stored. This is especially helpful for maintaining food safety.
• When ready to reheat, thaw the chicken tenderloins in the refrigerator overnight. This slow thawing process helps maintain the texture and flavor of the chicken.
• Reheat the chicken tenderloins in a skillet over medium heat, in the oven at 350°F, or in the microwave. If using the microwave, cover the chicken with a damp paper towel to prevent it from drying out.
• Add a splash of chicken broth or olive oil when reheating to keep the chicken tenderloins moist and flavorful.

• Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the chicken tenderloins on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil.
  3. Cover the chicken with another piece of foil to retain moisture.
  4. Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until the chicken is warmed through.
  5. Remove the foil for the last 2-3 minutes to let the chicken regain its crispiness.

• Stovetop Method:

  1. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of olive oil or butter.
  2. Place the chicken tenderloins in the skillet.
  3. Cover the skillet with a lid to help retain moisture.
  4. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is heated thoroughly.

• Microwave Method:

  1. Place the chicken tenderloins on a microwave-safe plate.
  2. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or a damp paper towel to prevent drying out.
  3. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through.
  4. If not heated through, continue in 30-second increments until warm.

• Sous Vide Method:

  1. Preheat your sous vide water bath to 140°F (60°C).
  2. Place the chicken tenderloins in a vacuum-sealed bag or a ziplock bag using the water displacement method.
  3. Submerge the bag in the water bath and heat for about 30 minutes.
  4. Remove from the bag and, if desired, quickly sear in a hot skillet with a bit of olive oil for 1-2 minutes to regain a crispy exterior.

• Air Fryer Method:

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the chicken tenderloins in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
  3. Heat for 3-5 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even heating.
  4. Check to ensure the chicken is heated through and has a crispy exterior.

• Skillet: A flat-bottomed pan used for searing the chicken tenderloins to achieve a golden brown crust.

• Tongs: Handy for flipping the chicken tenderloins to ensure even cooking on both sides.

• Measuring spoons: Essential for accurately measuring the olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.

• Cutting board: Provides a clean surface to season the chicken tenderloins.

• Knife: Useful for trimming any excess fat or tendons from the chicken tenderloins.

• Paper towels: Helps to pat the chicken dry before seasoning, ensuring a better sear.

• Plate: For resting the cooked chicken tenderloins before serving.

Pre-season the chicken: Season the chicken tenderloins ahead of time and store them in the fridge. This allows the flavors to penetrate and saves you time when cooking.

Use a hot skillet: Make sure the skillet is hot before adding the chicken. This ensures a quick sear and reduces cooking time.

Batch cooking: Cook multiple chicken tenderloins at once and store leftovers for future meals. This saves time on busy days.

Prep ingredients: Measure out and prepare all ingredients before you start cooking. This streamlines the process and reduces overall cooking time.