If you're looking for a delicious and easy-to-make chicken dish, this baked chicken tenderloin recipe is perfect for you. With ingredients you likely already have at home, this recipe works great with both white and dark meat, whether you prefer skin-on or skinless chicken. Let's dive into this flavorful journey that will leave your taste buds craving more.
Ingredients
Chicken Seasoning:
1/2 stick of butter (4 tablespoons)
2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
1 tablespoon minced garlic
1 teaspoon lemon pepper seasoning
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon turmeric
1 sazon packet
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 green pepper, sliced
1 red pepper, sliced
1 onion, sliced
1 chicken bouillon cube (dissolved in 1/2 cup of water)
Instructions
Preheat Your Oven:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature ensures that the chicken tenderloins cook evenly and come out juicy and flavorful.
Prepare the Chicken:
If you're using chicken tenderloins, make sure they are clean and pat them dry with a paper towel. You can use any cut of chicken for this recipe, whether it's white or dark meat, with or without skin.
Season the Chicken:
In a large mixing bowl combine all the seasonings: olive oil, cilantro, fresh parsley, minced garlic, lemon pepper seasoning, black pepper, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, chili powder, turmeric, and the contents of the sazon packet.
Marinate the Chicken:
Place the chicken tenderloins in the bowl with the seasoning mixture. Make sure each piece is well-coated with the marinade. Let it sit for at least 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat. If you have more time, marinating for a few hours will yield even better results.
Prepare the Baking Dish:
Arrange the seasoned chicken tenderloins in the dish. Scatter the sliced green pepper, red pepper, onion and sliced butter over the chicken. Pour in the chicken bouillon mixture.
Bake the Chicken:
Cover the baking dish with foil to keep the chicken moist and prevent it from drying out. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. The foil helps to create a steaming effect, making the chicken tender and juicy.
Check for Doneness:
After 45 minutes, remove the foil and check if the chicken is cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). If needed, bake for an additional 5-10 minutes without the foil to achieve a nice, golden-brown color on the top.
Serve and Enjoy:
Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every bite is flavorful and moist. Serve the chicken tenderloins with your favorite side dishes, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
Tips for Success
1. Use Fresh Herbs:
Fresh cilantro and parsley add a burst of flavor and freshness to the dish. If you don't have fresh herbs, dried ones can be used, but reduce the amount by half.
2. Don't Skip the Marinating Time:
Even a short marinating time of 15-20 minutes can make a big difference in flavor.
3. Use a Meat Thermometer:
To ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
4. Customize the Veggies:
Feel free to add or substitute other vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or mushrooms based on your preferences and what you have on hand.
5. Save the Juices:
The juices left in the baking dish are packed with flavor. Use them as a sauce or make a gravy for the chicken or drizzle over your side dishes for an extra burst of taste.
6. Adjust Seasonings to Taste:
If you prefer more heat, increase the amount of chili powder or add a pinch of cayenne pepper. If you like a more herbaceous flavor, add extra Italian seasoning or fresh herbs.
Final Thoughts
This baked chicken tenderloin recipe is a quick and tasty dish that brings together a symphony of flavors from your spice cabinet and fresh herbs. It's versatile enough to suit different cuts of chicken and can be easily adjusted to match your taste preferences. Whether you're cooking for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy!
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