Skillet Citrus Chicken Tenders are a delightful combination of tender chicken and vibrant citrus flavors. Perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Skillet Citrus Chicken Tenders
Why These Skillet Citrus Chicken Tenders Are the Best
- Citrus Burst: The combination of orange and lemon juice adds a refreshing and tangy twist to the chicken.
- Juicy Chicken: The chicken tenders are cooked to perfection, ensuring they remain juicy and tender.
- Quick and Easy: This recipe is straightforward and can be made in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Versatile: You can serve this dish with a variety of sides, making it a versatile option for any meal.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, preparing a weeknight meal, or looking for a quick and delicious dinner option, Skillet Citrus Chicken Tenders are the perfect choice. The combination of fresh citrus and tender chicken makes it a crowd-pleaser that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredient Notes
- Chicken tenderloins: Main protein, providing tenderness and flavor.
- Olive oil, butter, and flour: Ingredients for cooking the chicken and creating a roux for the sauce.
- Garlic: Adds aromatic flavor to the dish.
- Chicken broth: Base for the sauce, adding depth and moisture.
- Orange and lemon zest and juice: Fresh citrus flavors that brighten the dish.
- Chopped fresh parsley: A garnish that adds color and freshness.
- Salt and black pepper: Seasoning to enhance the flavors.
Tips for Making the Best Skillet Citrus Chicken Tenders
- Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh, high-quality chicken and citrus fruits.
- Don’t Overcook: Cook the chicken just until it is done to ensure it stays moist and tender.
- Deglaze the Pan: Use chicken broth to deglaze the skillet and incorporate all the rich flavors from the bottom of the pan.
- Garnish Generously: Top the cooked chicken with fresh parsley and citrus slices for a beautiful presentation.
Serving Suggestions
- With Rice: Serve Skillet Citrus Chicken Tenders over a bed of steamed white or brown rice for a complete meal.
- With a Side Salad: Pair it with a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
- With Steamed Vegetables: Add some steamed broccoli or green beans on the side for a nutritious touch.
- With Quinoa: Enjoy it with quinoa for a healthy and satisfying meal.
- With Garlic Bread: Serve with garlic bread for an extra touch of flavor.
- With Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes make a perfect complement to the citrusy chicken.
- With Roasted Vegetables: Serve alongside roasted vegetables like carrots and bell peppers for a colorful and healthy plate.
A Must Try
There’s nothing quite like the taste of homemade Skillet Citrus Chicken Tenders. This dish is the perfect way to treat yourself or your loved ones to something special. Fresh, tangy, and packed with flavor, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home.
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Skillet Citrus Chicken Tenders
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, preparing a weeknight meal, or looking for a quick and delicious dinner option, Skillet Citrus Chicken Tenders are the perfect choice. The combination of fresh citrus and tender chicken makes it a crowd-pleaser that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients
- 1.75 lbs chicken tenderloins
- 2 Tablespoon olive oil divided
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 3 Tablespoon butter divided
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 1 Tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 Tablespoon orange zest
- 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
- 2 Teaspoon lemon zest
- 3 Tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 2 Tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Season both sides of the chicken tenders with salt and pepper.
- Add half of the tenders to the skillet and cook for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side, until they’re golden brown and fully cooked.
- Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and cover it with aluminum foil. Repeat the process with the remaining chicken tenders, then set them aside as well.
- Next, melt a tablespoon of butter in the empty skillet. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 15 seconds until fragrant.
- Then, sprinkle in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
- Gradually pour in the chicken broth, orange juice, and lemon juice, scraping up the flavorful browned bits from the bottom of the pan as you stir.
- Let the mixture simmer for about 3 minutes, stirring frequently until it thickens slightly.
- Stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter along with the orange and lemon zest.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, tossing it in the sauce, and finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley.
- Serve immediately for a delightful meal!
Notes
- If you don’t have chicken tenderloins available, feel free to slice up some chicken breasts as a substitute.
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Skillet Citrus Chicken Tenders