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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
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 tenders
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Pesto
  • 1 bunch Fresh Cilantro Fresh is essential for the best pesto!
  • 2 cloves Garlic Adjust the amount to suit your taste.
  • 1/4 cup Pine Nuts Can substitute with walnuts or sunflower seeds.
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Fresh cheese is recommended, optional vegan cheese.
  • 1/2 cup Olive Oil Extra virgin yields the 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 tenders work too.

Equipment

  • food processor
  • skillet
  • measuring spoons
  • brush
  • Paper towels

Method
 

Preparation
  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, then set aside.
  2. Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
  3. Brush each chicken tender generously with the prepared cilantro pesto, ensuring even coverage.
  4. Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil, then cook the chicken tenders for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
  5. Let the cooked chicken tenders rest for a few minutes before serving, garnished with fresh cilantro and lime wedges.

Nutrition

Serving: 1tenderCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 6gProtein: 28gFat: 13gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 450mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1mg

Notes

For best results, use high-quality ingredients and make sure chicken tenders are of similar size for even cooking.

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