If you’re craving something vibrant, fresh, and delightfully simple, this Cilantro Pesto Chicken Tenders recipe will quickly become a weeknight favorite. Packed with bright herbs, zesty flavors, and tender, juicy chicken, it offers restaurant-quality taste with home-cook ease. From the bold cilantro pesto to the perfectly cooked tenders, this dish brings together wholesome ingredients and quick prep for a meal that’s as healthy as it is delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fresh and flavorful: The cilantro pesto infuses every bite with a lively herbal zest that wakes up your taste buds.
- Quick and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights when you want something tasty without the fuss.
- Nutritious and wholesome: Lean chicken tenders paired with fresh herbs make a healthy meal option.
- Versatile meal: This recipe adapts well to different sides, toppings, and dietary adjustments.
- Kid-friendly: Mild yet flavorful, these tenders are great for picky eaters.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe is surprisingly simple but relies on a powerful combination of ingredients that bring out the best in every bite. Each one adds a unique texture, color, or bright flavor that makes this dish stand out.
- Chicken tenders: Choose fresh, boneless skinless tenders for quick cooking and tender results.
- Fresh cilantro: The star of the pesto, bringing bright herbal notes and vibrant green color.
- Garlic cloves: Adds pungent depth and enhances the pesto’s savory profile.
- Pine nuts or walnuts: Provide a rich, buttery crunch and nutty flavor to the pesto.
- Parmesan cheese: Offers salty, umami richness that balances the fresh cilantro.
- Olive oil: Binds the pesto together and adds a fruity smoothness to the sauce.
- Lime juice: A splash brightens the pesto, giving it a fresh citrus tang.
- Salt and pepper: Enhances every flavor element without overpowering.
Variations for Cilantro Pesto Chicken Tenders
Don’t hesitate to personalize this Cilantro Pesto Chicken Tenders recipe to suit your taste buds or dietary needs. It’s super flexible, so you can easily swap ingredients or add new twists.
- Use basil or parsley: Substitute part or all of the cilantro with fresh basil or parsley for a different herbaceous flavor.
- Swap nuts: Almonds, cashews, or pecans can replace pine nuts depending on availability or preference.
- Make it dairy-free: Omit Parmesan or use nutritional yeast for a vegan-friendly twist.
- Add spice: Mix in a pinch of red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeño for extra heat.
- Gluten-free breadcrumb coating: Lightly coat tenders in gluten-free breadcrumbs before cooking for a crispy texture.
How to Make Cilantro Pesto Chicken Tenders
Step 1: Prepare the Cilantro Pesto
Start by blending fresh cilantro, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, lime juice, salt, and pepper in a food processor. Slowly add olive oil until the mixture becomes a smooth, vibrant green paste. Set aside.
Step 2: Season the Chicken Tenders
Pat the tenders dry, then lightly season with salt and pepper. This helps the chicken retain moisture and enhances flavor.
Step 3: Coat the Tenders with Pesto
Generously brush or toss the tenders in the cilantro pesto until each piece is well coated.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken Tenders
Heat a skillet over medium heat with a drizzle of olive oil. Cook tenders for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Avoid overcrowding the pan for even cooking.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Remove the tenders from heat, let them rest for 2 minutes to keep juices locked in, then serve with an extra drizzle of fresh pesto or lime wedges.
Pro Tips for Making Cilantro Pesto Chicken Tenders
- Use fresh herbs: Fresh cilantro is key for bright flavor and vibrant color in the pesto.
- Don’t overcook: Chicken tenders cook quickly; pulling them off the heat just as they’re done keeps them juicy.
- Prep pesto in advance: Make the pesto ahead and store it in the fridge to cut down on meal prep time.
- Toast nuts lightly: Toast pine nuts or walnuts before adding to the pesto for an extra depth of flavor.
- Allow resting time: Let cooked tenders rest briefly to retain moisture and achieve optimum tenderness.
How to Serve Cilantro Pesto Chicken Tenders
Garnishes
Fresh lime wedges, extra cilantro leaves, or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese each make perfect garnishes that enhance the colors and flavors of the tenders.
Side Dishes
Pair this dish with light sides like roasted vegetables, a crisp green salad, or fluffy quinoa to complement the bright flavors without overpowering them.
Creative Ways to Present
Transform these tenders into wraps with tortillas and fresh veggies or top salads for a protein-packed lunch option. They also make fantastic sliders with a dollop of creamy avocado or yogurt sauce.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftover Cilantro Pesto Chicken Tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezing
Freeze cooked tenders in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Store for up to 2 months for convenient meal prep.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven to keep tenders crispy. Avoid microwaving as it can make the chicken rubbery.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken breasts can be sliced into strips and used in place of tenders, but cook times will be slightly longer.
Is cilantro pesto gluten-free?
Absolutely! This recipe uses naturally gluten-free ingredients, making it safe for gluten-sensitive diners.
How long does homemade pesto last?
Store pesto in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. You can also freeze it in ice cube trays for longer storage.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Simply omit the Parmesan or replace it with nutritional yeast to enjoy a vegan version of Cilantro Pesto Chicken Tenders.
What’s the best way to get tender chicken tenders?
Don’t overcook and allow them to rest after cooking so they remain moist and tender throughout.
Final Thoughts
This Cilantro Pesto Chicken Tenders recipe is a fantastic way to bring fresh, bold flavors to your dinner table without complicated steps. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, these easy tenders deliver on taste, texture, and satisfaction. Give it a try tonight—you might just find your new favorite go-to meal!