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Quick Cilantro Pesto Chicken Tenders

Quick Cilantro Pesto Chicken Tenders
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Quick Cilantro Pesto Chicken Tenders are a vibrant, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish perfect for busy weeknights. Tender chicken tenders are coated in a fresh cilantro pesto made from fresh herbs, nuts, Parmesan, garlic, and lemon juice, then pan-cooked or baked to a golden perfection. This recipe is kid-friendly, healthy, and can be customized to suit various dietary preferences, making it a versatile family favorite.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 1 lb fresh boneless, skinless chicken tenders

Cilantro Pesto

  • 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves (packed)
  • 1/4 cup pine nuts or walnuts
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for dairy-free)
  • 2 garlic cloves, peeled
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes for heat

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Cilantro Pesto: In a food processor, combine fresh cilantro, pine nuts or walnuts, garlic cloves, grated Parmesan cheese, olive oil, fresh lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Pulse until the mixture is smooth but still has a bit of texture, ensuring all ingredients are well blended and fragrant.
  2. Coat the Chicken Tenders: Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels to ensure the pesto adheres well. Toss the chicken tenders gently in the prepared cilantro pesto until each piece is evenly coated with the vibrant green sauce.
  3. Cook the Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of olive oil. Place the pesto-coated chicken tenders in the skillet and cook for 3 to 4 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. The pesto will caramelize slightly, locking in moisture and flavor. Alternatively, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, brushing tenders with olive oil for crispness.
  4. Serve Warm: Transfer chicken tenders to a serving plate and serve immediately to enjoy the fresh, bright flavor of the cilantro pesto paired with juicy chicken.

Notes

  • Use fresh cilantro and freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor.
  • Do not overblend the pesto; keep some texture.
  • Pat chicken dry before coating to help pesto stick and ensure browning.
  • Cook on medium heat to prevent burning the pesto.
  • Make extra pesto to use as a dip or for other meals.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
  • Reheat in a skillet or oven to keep tenders crispy, avoid microwaving.

Nutrition

Keywords: cilantro pesto, chicken tenders, quick dinner, gluten free, kid-friendly, healthy chicken recipe

Find it online: https://marysplate.com/quick-cilantro-pesto-chicken-tenders/