If you’re craving a burst of fresh, zesty flavors with tender, juicy chicken, look no further than this Easy Cilantro Pesto Chicken Tenders Recipe. It’s a vibrant twist on a classic, combining the bright herbal notes of cilantro with the nuttiness of Parmesan and walnuts, all baked to golden perfection. Whether you’re seeking a quick weeknight dinner or a flavorful meal to impress guests, these chicken tenders deliver that satisfying balance of taste and texture that will keep everyone coming back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with this Easy Cilantro Pesto Chicken Tenders Recipe is a breeze, thanks to the simple yet carefully chosen ingredients. Each one contributes to the dish’s bright freshness, rich creaminess, or perfectly seasoned bite.
- Chicken tenders (1 ½ pounds): Naturally tender and quick-cooking, these are perfect for soaking up the vibrant pesto flavors.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons + â…“ cup): Used for coating the chicken and blending the pesto, it adds moisture and a subtle fruity richness.
- Salt (½ teaspoon + to taste): Essential for enhancing all the natural flavors throughout the recipe.
- Black pepper (¼ teaspoon): Adds a gentle warmth and slight kick to the chicken seasoning.
- Garlic powder (¼ teaspoon) + 1 garlic clove: Deepens the savory profile with roasted and fresh garlic notes.
- Smoked paprika (¼ teaspoon): Imparts a lovely smoky depth that complements the fresh herbs beautifully.
- Fresh cilantro leaves (1 cup, packed): The star of the dish, providing that unmistakable bright, citrusy herb flavor for the pesto.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (¼ cup): Brings a creamy, salty tang that rounds out the pesto’s texture and taste.
- Walnuts or almonds (¼ cup): Adds a satisfying crunch and nutty richness to the pesto sauce.
- Lime juice (2 tablespoons): Offers a fresh citrus zing that really lifts the pesto’s brightness.
How to Make Easy Cilantro Pesto Chicken Tenders Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheet
Start by heating your oven to 400°F and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This setup ensures your chicken tenders bake evenly and clean-up is minimal, making the whole process smooth from start to finish.
Step 2: Blend the Cilantro Pesto
In a small food processor or blender, combine the fresh cilantro, Parmesan cheese, walnuts or almonds, garlic clove, lime juice, and ⅓ cup olive oil. Blend everything until it becomes a smooth, luscious pesto. Pause to season with salt according to your taste — this step is where the pesto’s vibrant personality really shines.
Step 3: Season the Chicken Tenders
In a large bowl, toss the chicken tenders with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Coating the chicken evenly with this seasoning mix will give every bite a perfect balance of smoky, savory, and fresh flavors.
Step 4: Bake the Chicken
Arrange the seasoned chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Bake them for 18 to 20 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure both sides develop a golden color and the chicken cooks evenly. The aroma at this stage is absolutely irresistible!
Step 5: Serve with Cilantro Pesto
Once the chicken is cooked through and beautifully golden, remove it from the oven. Spoon the cilantro pesto generously over the hot tenders, or serve it on the side for dipping. This finishing touch injects every bite with fresh zest and creamy nuttiness that completes the dish perfectly.
How to Serve Easy Cilantro Pesto Chicken Tenders Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a sprinkle of extra fresh cilantro or a few vibrant lime wedges brightens the plate and invites your guests to customize each bite. These simple garnishes elevate the visual appeal and reinforce the fresh flavors in the dish.
Side Dishes
This Easy Cilantro Pesto Chicken Tenders Recipe pairs wonderfully with fluffy jasmine or basmati rice that soaks up any extra pesto. Roasted veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes add a sweet, savory crunch that balances perfectly. For a low-carb option, try serving it alongside a crisp green salad or cauliflower rice.
Creative Ways to Present
Try turning these tenders into wraps or tacos by layering them with avocado slices, fresh greens, and a drizzle of extra cilantro pesto wrapped in warm tortillas. You can also serve them on top of a mixed greens salad or even alongside grilled corn for a Latin-inspired dinner party.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, place the chicken tenders and pesto separately in airtight containers and store them in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keeping the pesto apart helps preserve its bright flavor and fresh aroma.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze the cooked chicken tenders in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze the pesto separately in a small airtight container or ice cube trays for up to one month to maintain its fresh taste.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the tenders in the oven at 350°F until heated through, around 10 minutes, to keep them juicy and crisp. Warm the pesto separately at room temperature or briefly in the microwave to preserve its fresh, bright flavors before serving.
FAQs
Can I use other nuts besides walnuts or almonds for the pesto?
Absolutely! Pine nuts, cashews, or even pecans work beautifully and each adds a unique flavor profile. Feel free to experiment based on what you have on hand.
Is this recipe dairy-free?
You can easily make it dairy-free by omitting the Parmesan cheese or using a vegan-friendly cheese alternative. The pesto will still be flavorful and creamy thanks to the nuts and olive oil.
Can I make the pesto ahead of time?
Yes, the pesto can be made up to two days in advance and stored in the fridge tightly covered. Just give it a good stir before serving and add a little extra lime juice if needed to refresh the brightness.
What’s the best way to ensure juicy chicken tenders?
Don’t overcook! Keep an eye on the baking time and flip halfway through. Using chicken tenders instead of larger cuts helps them cook quickly and stay tender.
Can I grill the chicken tenders instead of baking?
Definitely! Grilling adds a smoky char that pairs wonderfully with the cilantro pesto. Just grill over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes per side until cooked through.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Cilantro Pesto Chicken Tenders Recipe is truly one of those dishes that feels like a celebration of fresh flavors and simple cooking. It’s quick, versatile, and packed with vibrant zest and comforting texture that makes every meal feel special. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and make it a staple in your kitchen—you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!
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Easy Cilantro Pesto Chicken Tenders Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Latin-Inspired
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Easy Cilantro Pesto Chicken Tenders recipe features tender chicken coated in a flavorful homemade cilantro pesto, baked to golden perfection. Combining fresh herbs, nuts, and zesty lime, this dish delivers a vibrant, Latin-inspired meal that’s perfect for a quick dinner or meal prep.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 1 ½ pounds chicken tenders
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
Cilantro Pesto
- 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves (packed)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup walnuts or almonds
- 1 garlic clove
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Make the Cilantro Pesto: In a small food processor or blender, combine the fresh cilantro leaves, grated Parmesan cheese, walnuts or almonds, garlic clove, lime juice, and 1/3 cup olive oil. Blend until you achieve a smooth pesto consistency. Taste and season with salt as needed to enhance the flavors.
- Season the Chicken Tenders: In a large mixing bowl, toss the chicken tenders with 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Make sure each tender is evenly coated with the spice mixture.
- Arrange and Bake: Place the seasoned chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Bake in the preheated oven for 18 to 20 minutes, flipping the tenders halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning and cooking.
- Serve with Cilantro Pesto: Once the chicken tenders are golden and fully cooked through, remove them from the oven. Spoon the fresh cilantro pesto over the hot chicken tenders or serve the pesto on the side as a dipping sauce. Garnish optionally with extra cilantro leaves or lime wedges for a bright finish.
Notes
- You can use store-bought pesto if short on time, but fresh cilantro pesto provides a uniquely fresh and vibrant flavor.
- This dish pairs well with rice, roasted vegetables, or inside wraps for a versatile meal option.
- For a dairy-free version, omit the Parmesan cheese or substitute with a vegan Parmesan alternative.
