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Cilantro Pesto Chicken Tenders

Juicy Cilantro Pesto Chicken Tenders for Quick Dinner Bliss

Try these Cilantro Pesto Chicken Tenders for a quick and flavorful dinner that’s healthy and gluten-free.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Marination Time 15 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 tenders
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Gluten-Free
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

For the Pesto
  • 2 cups Fresh Cilantro Can substitute with parsley
  • 1/4 cup Pine Nuts Walnuts or almonds can be substitutes
  • 2-3 cloves Garlic Fresh cloves
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Nutritional yeast for dairy-free option
  • 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice Lime juice is a zesty alternative
  • 1/2 cup Olive Oil Avocado oil as a substitute
For the Chicken Tenders
  • 1 pound Chicken Tenders Choose preservative-free options

Equipment

  • Blender or Food Processor
  • large skillet
  • Mixing Bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Prepare the Pesto: Blend fresh cilantro, pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, and olive oil in a blender until combined and slightly textured. Season with salt and pepper.
  2. Marinate the Chicken: Place chicken tenders in a bowl, pour half of the pesto over them, toss to coat, and marinate for 10-15 minutes.
  3. Heat the Skillet: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil until shimmering.
  4. Cook the Chicken Tenders: Add marinated chicken tenders to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
  5. Serve and Garnish: Remove from skillet, serve on a plate, drizzle with remaining pesto, and garnish with cilantro and lemon wedges.
  6. Pair Them Perfectly: Serve with a fresh salad, garlic-roasted potatoes, or fluffy quinoa.

Nutrition

Serving: 1tenderCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 6gProtein: 28gFat: 21gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 450mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 20IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1mg

Notes

For best results, marinate chicken longer for deeper flavors and ensure your skillet is properly heated for a golden crust.

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