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Cilantro Pesto Chicken Tenders

Cilantro Pesto Chicken Tenders
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Cilantro Pesto Chicken Tenders combine tender, juicy chicken strips with a vibrant, herb-packed cilantro pesto sauce. Ready in under 30 minutes, this quick and easy recipe delivers bold, fresh flavors that are perfect for busy weeknights or casual family dinners. Nutritious and versatile, this dish is loved by both kids and adults and pairs well with a variety of sides.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 1 lb chicken tenders
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)

Cilantro Pesto

  • 2 cups fresh cilantro leaves
  • 2–3 garlic cloves
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup pine nuts or walnuts
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/3 to 1/2 cup olive oil (drizzled while blending)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Cilantro Pesto: Combine fresh cilantro leaves, garlic cloves, Parmesan cheese, nuts, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a food processor. While blending, slowly drizzle in olive oil until the mixture reaches a creamy, spreadable consistency.
  2. Season the Chicken Tenders: Lightly season the chicken tenders with salt and pepper to enhance their natural flavor.
  3. Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken tenders and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Ensure the chicken is juicy and tender.
  4. Coat with Cilantro Pesto: Remove the cooked chicken from heat and generously coat each tender with the freshly made cilantro pesto, covering both sides thoroughly.
  5. Serve Warm: Serve the Cilantro Pesto Chicken Tenders immediately with your favorite sides or garnishes for the best taste experience.

Notes

  • Fresh Cilantro: Use fresh, vibrant cilantro for the best pesto flavor and avoid wilted leaves.
  • Don’t Overcook: Chicken tenders cook quickly; overcooking will dry them out.
  • Toast Nuts: Lightly toast pine nuts or walnuts before adding to the pesto for enhanced nuttiness.
  • Adjust Consistency: Add olive oil gradually to achieve your preferred pesto thickness.
  • Use a Meat Thermometer: Cook chicken to an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure safety without dryness.

Nutrition

Keywords: cilantro pesto, chicken tenders, quick dinner, easy recipe, gluten free, healthy chicken, herb pesto

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