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Plate of buttery garlic chicken tenders served with dipping sauce

Garlic Butter Chicken Tenders

These garlic butter chicken tenders are rich in flavor, easy to make, and perfect for busy nights or cozy weekends.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 270
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Tenders
  • 1 lb. chicken tenders Lean and juicy strips of chicken.
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika Adds warm smokiness.
  • 3 dashes cayenne powder Gives the chicken a subtle kick.
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter Room temperature for better melting.
  • 3-4 cloves garlic (minced) Infuses flavor into the chicken.
  • 1 teaspoon bottled Italian seasoning A blend of herbs for flavor.
  • to taste none Salt Enhances flavors.
  • 1/2 tablespoon lemon juice Adds brightness.
  • 1 tablespoon chopped parsley For garnish.
  • as needed none Lemon wedges For serving.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Season the chicken tenders with smoked paprika and cayenne powder. Set aside.
  2. Heat a cast-iron skillet over high heat and add 3 tablespoons of butter.
Cooking
  1. Once the butter is hot, add the chicken tenders, cooking undisturbed for 1-2 minutes until golden, then flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes.
  2. Push the chicken to one side, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter and minced garlic to the empty side.
  3. Sprinkle Italian seasoning over the chicken and stir to prevent burning of the garlic.
  4. Add salt and lemon juice, cooking until the chicken is no longer pink and slightly charred, then stir everything together.
Serving
  1. Serve the garlic butter chicken tenders immediately with lemon wedges on the side.

Notes

For extra richness, add a splash of chicken broth after garlic. Fresh herbs can replace dried seasoning for better flavor. Allow butter to sizzle before adding chicken for a great sear.