Grocery
Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast Tenderloins
What it is
These are cuts of chicken breast that have been trimmed of bone, skin, and any excess fat. They are typically smaller and more uniform in size than whole chicken breasts, making them convenient for quick cooking. They are often found in the frozen section of grocery stores.
How people cook with it
Chicken tenderloins are a popular choice for busy home cooks due to their ease of preparation and adaptability.
- Quick weeknight dinners
- Kid-friendly meals
- Salad toppings
- Appetizers
To cook frozen chicken tenderloins, you can thaw them first in the refrigerator for optimal texture and even cooking. Once thawed, they can be pan-fried, baked, grilled, or stir-fried. They cook relatively quickly because of their size. You can marinate them before cooking to add flavor. For a crispy coating, dredge them in seasoned flour or breadcrumbs before frying or baking. They are also excellent when cut into smaller pieces for skewers or added to pasta dishes.
How it differs from similar foods
Compared to whole chicken breasts, tenderloins are naturally smaller and more tender. They require less prep time as they are already deboned and skinned. Their uniform shape also ensures more consistent cooking times, reducing the chance of over or undercooking.
How to keep the rest
After purchasing, keep frozen chicken tenderloins in your freezer until ready to use. Once thawed, they should be cooked within one to two days. Store any leftover cooked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator.