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Cilantro Pesto Chicken Tenders

Cilantro Pesto Chicken Tenders: Easy, Juicy Flavor Boost

Cilantro Pesto Chicken Tenders are a quick and delicious gluten-free dish bursting with fresh herb flavor.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 8 minutes
Marinating Time 15 minutes
Total Time 38 minutes
Servings: 4 tenders
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 280
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1 pound Chicken Tenders Opt for high-quality, fresh chicken for best results.
For the Pesto
  • 1 cup Fresh Cilantro Can substitute parsley.
  • 1/4 cup Pine Nuts Walnuts or almonds can work as alternatives.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Use fresh garlic for best flavor.
  • 1/3 cup Parmesan Cheese Can replace with nutritional yeast for dairy-free version.
  • 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice Lime juice can be a refreshing alternative.
  • 1/2 cup Olive Oil Avocado oil can be used if preferred.
  • to taste Salt and Pepper Essential for seasoning.

Equipment

  • food processor
  • skillet
  • Mixing Bowl

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. In a food processor, combine fresh cilantro, toasted pine nuts, minced garlic, grated Parmesan, lemon juice, and olive oil. Pulse until smooth with a slightly textured consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  2. In a mixing bowl, toss the chicken tenders with half of the pesto, cover, and let marinate for at least 10-15 minutes.
  3. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil, and cook marinated chicken tenders for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
  4. Transfer cooked tenders to a serving plate and drizzle remaining pesto over the top or serve it on the side.

Nutrition

Serving: 1tenderCalories: 280kcalCarbohydrates: 5gProtein: 25gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 450mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 600IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Use high-quality chicken for the best flavor and texture. Allowing the chicken to marinate enhances its flavor. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

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