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Cilantro Pesto Chicken Tenders

Juicy Cilantro Pesto Chicken Tenders in Under 30 Minutes

Quick and delicious Cilantro Pesto Chicken Tenders perfect for busy weeknights.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 tenders
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 220

Ingredients
  

For the Pesto
  • 2 cups fresh cilantro fresh is essential for the best pesto
  • 2 cloves garlic adjust amount to taste
  • 1/4 cup pine nuts can substitute with walnuts or sunflower seeds
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese fresh cheese recommended
  • 1/2 cup olive oil extra virgin for best flavor
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice lemon juice can be an alternative
  • to taste salt adjust according to preference
  • to taste pepper adjust according to preference
For the Chicken
  • 1 pound chicken tenders fresh is best, thawed frozen works too

Equipment

  • food processor
  • skillet
  • brush

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. In a food processor, combine fresh cilantro, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Blend until the mixture is slightly textured yet well-combined.
  2. Take your chicken tenders, pat them dry with paper towels, and season generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
  3. Using a brush or your hands, coat each chicken tender with the prepared cilantro pesto, ensuring each piece is evenly covered.
  4. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of olive oil. Once shimmering, add the coated chicken tenders. Cook for about 3-4 minutes each side until golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
  5. Remove chicken from the skillet and let rest for a few minutes before serving garnished with fresh cilantro, lime wedges, or toasted pine nuts.

Nutrition

Serving: 1tenderCalories: 220kcalCarbohydrates: 3gProtein: 24gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 1gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For freezing, wrap cooked chicken tenders tightly and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.

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