Flavor-Packed Quick Cilantro Pesto Chicken Tenders Delight
Quick Cilantro Pesto Chicken Tenders Delight combines tender chicken with vibrant cilantro pesto, ready in under 30 minutes.
Equipment
- food processor
- large skillet
- meat thermometer
Ingredients
For the Pesto
- 1 bunch Fresh Cilantro Essential for vibrant flavor and aroma; avoid dried cilantro.
- 2 cloves Garlic Adds depth; fresh cloves yield the best results.
- ¼ cup Pine Nuts Contribute creaminess; can substitute with walnuts.
- ¼ cup Parmesan Cheese Enhances richness; use nutritional yeast for dairy-free.
- ½ cup Olive Oil High-quality oil makes a difference.
- 2 tablespoons Lime Juice Offers acidity; lemon juice works as an alternative.
- to taste Salt Key for seasoning.
- to taste Pepper Key for seasoning.
For the Chicken
- 1 pound Chicken Tenders Ensure they are fresh and tender.
- to taste Salt Simple seasoning to enhance flavor.
- to taste Pepper Simple seasoning to enhance flavor.
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a food processor, combine fresh cilantro, garlic, pine nuts, parmesan cheese, olive oil, lime juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Blend on high until smooth, about 30 seconds.
- Pat the chicken tenders dry with a paper towel. Sprinkle both sides lightly with salt and pepper.
- Brush the pesto over the seasoned chicken tenders, ensuring they're completely coated.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken tenders for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
- Transfer the chicken tenders to a plate and let them rest for about 3 minutes before serving.
Notes
Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor. Basting with extra pesto keeps the chicken moist.
Nutrition
Serving: 1tenderCalories: 290kcalCarbohydrates: 8gProtein: 25gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 325mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg
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