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Easy Cilantro Pesto Chicken Tenders Recipe

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  • Author: admin
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American, Mexican-Inspired
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This Easy Cilantro Pesto Chicken Tenders recipe offers a flavorful and healthy twist on classic chicken tenders. Marinated in a vibrant cilantro pesto made from fresh herbs, Parmesan cheese, and lime juice, these chicken tenders are baked to juicy perfection. Ideal for a quick weeknight dinner, this dish pairs beautifully with rice, salads, or wraps and is perfect for those seeking gluten-free and low-carb meal options.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 1 ½ pounds chicken tenders

Cilantro Pesto

  • 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves (packed)
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons toasted pine nuts or walnuts
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • Juice of 1/2 lime
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
  2. Make the Cilantro Pesto: In a food processor, combine the fresh cilantro leaves, grated Parmesan cheese, olive oil, toasted pine nuts (or walnuts), garlic cloves, lime juice, salt, and black pepper. Blend until you achieve a smooth, vibrant pesto sauce.
  3. Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels to help the pesto adhere better. Place the tenders in a large mixing bowl.
  4. Coat the Chicken: Pour the prepared cilantro pesto over the chicken tenders. Toss gently to ensure each piece is evenly coated with the flavorful pesto.
  5. Arrange and Bake: Spread the coated chicken tenders in a single layer onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 18 to 20 minutes, flipping the tenders halfway through to promote even cooking. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  6. Serve: Remove the chicken tenders from the oven and serve warm. Optionally, offer extra cilantro pesto on the side for dipping or drizzling over the tenders.

Notes

  • You can substitute Greek yogurt or avocado for part of the olive oil to lighten the pesto and add creaminess.
  • These tenders also cook well in an air fryer at 375°F for about 12–14 minutes, flipping halfway through.
  • Serve with rice, fresh salads, or wrapped in tortillas for versatile meal options.

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Find it online: https://whisksweetly.com/easy-cilantro-pesto-chicken-tenders-recipe/