If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with fresh flavors and comes together in a flash, the Easy Cilantro Pesto Chicken Tenders Recipe is your new best friend. Tender chicken paired with vibrant cilantro pesto creates a perfect harmony of zesty, nutty, and savory notes that brighten up any mealtime. Whether you’re looking to impress dinner guests or simply enjoy a wholesome weekday meal, this recipe checks all the boxes with minimal fuss and maximum taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe brilliantly showcases how a handful of simple, fresh ingredients can transform everyday chicken tenders into a mouthwatering feast. Each component adds its own magic—cilantro brings an herbal punch, Parmesan lends a cheesy depth, and nuts give a satisfying texture and richness.
- 1 1/2 pounds chicken tenders: The star protein that cooks quickly and stays juicy.
- 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves (packed): Delivers that vibrant, unmistakable cilantro flavor.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds umami and a slightly salty, nutty character.
- 1/4 cup toasted almonds or walnuts: Toasting nuts boosts their crunch and brings out a warm depth in the pesto.
- 2 cloves garlic: Essential for that punchy, aromatic base in the pesto.
- 2 tablespoons lemon or lime juice: Provides zing and balances the richness of the cheese and nuts.
- 1/3 cup olive oil: Gives the pesto a luscious, smooth texture.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Helps elevate all the flavors perfectly.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking): Ensures a beautifully golden sear on the chicken tenders.
How to Make Easy Cilantro Pesto Chicken Tenders Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cilantro Pesto
Start by combining cilantro, Parmesan, toasted nuts, garlic, lemon or lime juice, salt, and pepper in your food processor. Pulse until everything is finely chopped. As the motor runs, slowly drizzle in olive oil until the mixture turns into a smooth, vibrant green pesto. Take a moment to taste it—this fresh pesto is what brings the whole dish to life!
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Place your chicken tenders into a bowl or a zip-top bag and coat them with about half of the cilantro pesto. Let them marinate for at least 20 minutes to soak up the flavors—but if you’ve got more time, a few hours in the fridge will deepen the taste and tenderness.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken Tenders
Heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken tenders and cook for 3 to 4 minutes on each side until they’re cooked through and golden brown. The aroma in your kitchen will be irresistible by this point!
Step 4: Serve with Extra Pesto
Serve the chicken warm, drizzled with extra cilantro pesto or offer it on the side for dipping. It’s a simple step that makes every bite flavorful and fresh.
How to Serve Easy Cilantro Pesto Chicken Tenders Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes like chopped cilantro, a sprinkle of extra Parmesan, or thin lemon wedges can boost the presentation and add a lovely burst of freshness or tang. These small touches personalize the dish and enhance its bright flavors.
Side Dishes
Pair this dish with fluffy rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables for a satisfying meal. The herbal, tangy pesto complements grains and veggies beautifully, turning your plate into a colorful, nutritious feast.
Creative Ways to Present
Lay the chicken tenders atop a bed of lightly dressed arugula or spinach for a fresh salad with a punch of flavor. You can also slice the tenders and stuff them into warm pita pockets or tortillas with extra cilantro pesto and crunchy veggies for a handheld delight.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover cooked chicken tenders and pesto in airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 3 days. This makes for quick lunches or dinner the next day without sacrificing flavor or texture.
Freezing
You can freeze any extra uncooked chicken tenders coated with pesto in a tightly sealed bag for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before cooking to enjoy the same great taste and tenderness later on.
Reheating
Reheat leftover chicken tenders gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave to keep them juicy without drying out. Add a spoonful of pesto on top when warming for an extra fresh hit of flavor.
FAQs
Can I use basil instead of cilantro for the pesto?
Absolutely! Basil pesto offers a sweeter, more classic pesto flavor. If you’re not a cilantro fan, swapping in basil is a great way to enjoy a different twist on the Easy Cilantro Pesto Chicken Tenders Recipe.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! The recipe uses fresh ingredients and olive oil with no gluten-containing items, making it safe for those avoiding gluten.
How spicy is this dish?
By default, this recipe isn’t spicy unless you choose to add red pepper flakes or a little chili. It’s a crowd-pleaser even for sensitive palates.
Can I make the pesto ahead of time?
Definitely. Store homemade cilantro pesto in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just stir well before using to reincorporate the oils.
What’s the best way to toast the nuts?
Simply heat them in a dry skillet over medium-low heat, stirring frequently for 3-5 minutes until fragrant and lightly browned. Toasting nuts deepens their flavor and adds a lovely crunch to the pesto.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly satisfying about a recipe that’s both simple and delicious, and the Easy Cilantro Pesto Chicken Tenders Recipe fits the bill perfectly. It brightens up your dinner table effortlessly while packing in bold, fresh flavors that your whole family will love. Don’t wait to try this flavorful, tender, and colorful dish—it might just become your weeknight favorite!
Print
Easy Cilantro Pesto Chicken Tenders Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 18 minutes (plus optional marinating time)
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Easy Cilantro Pesto Chicken Tenders recipe features tender chicken cooked on the stovetop, infused with a vibrant homemade cilantro pesto made from fresh cilantro, Parmesan cheese, nuts, garlic, and lemon juice. Perfect for a quick, flavorful meal, it pairs wonderfully with rice, pasta, or roasted vegetables, and offers a healthy, gluten-free option packed with protein and fresh herbs.
Ingredients
For the Cilantro Pesto
- 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves (packed)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup toasted almonds or walnuts
- 2 cloves garlic
- 2 tablespoons lemon or lime juice
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Chicken
- 1 1/2 pounds chicken tenders
- 1/2 cup cilantro pesto (from above)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
Instructions
- Make the Cilantro Pesto: In a food processor, combine cilantro, Parmesan cheese, toasted nuts, garlic, lemon or lime juice, salt, and pepper. Pulse until finely chopped. With the processor running, slowly stream in olive oil until the mixture becomes smooth and well-blended. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken tenders in a bowl or zip-top bag and coat evenly with half a cup of the cilantro pesto. Marinate for at least 20 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse, or up to 4 hours for a more intense taste.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken tenders, cooking them for 3 to 4 minutes on each side, or until they are cooked through and golden brown on the outside.
- Serve: Remove the chicken from the skillet and serve warm. Drizzle extra cilantro pesto over the top or serve it on the side for added flavor.
Notes
- Serve alongside rice, pasta, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
- You can substitute store-bought cilantro pesto or use basil pesto for a different flavor.
- For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the pesto mixture before blending.
