If you’re craving a dish that delivers bold, fresh flavors with minimal fuss, the Easy Cilantro Pesto Chicken Tenders Recipe is about to become your new go-to. This dish brilliantly marries tender, juicy chicken with a vibrant cilantro pesto that’s zesty, nutty, and packed with herbaceous goodness. Every bite offers a perfect balance of smoky spices and bright citrusy notes, making it an irresistible centerpiece for any weeknight dinner or casual get-together. Plus, it comes together quickly, so you’ll have a delicious meal on the table without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this recipe shine, we’ll keep things simple but flavorful with fresh herbs, quality proteins, and pantry staples that elevate every component. Each ingredient has a purpose, from adding crunch and creaminess to giving the dish its signature bright green color and bold taste.
- Chicken tenders (1 ½ pounds): These cook quickly and stay tender, perfect for soaking up the pesto flavors.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons + 1/3 cup): Used in both the chicken seasoning and pesto to add richness and help with roasting.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon + to taste): Essential for enhancing all the flavors.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Gives a subtle heat and depth.
- Garlic powder (1/4 teaspoon): Adds savory warmth to the chicken seasoning.
- Smoked paprika (1/4 teaspoon): Brings a delicious smokiness that complements the fresh herby pesto.
- Fresh cilantro leaves (1 cup, packed): The star of the pesto, offering bright, citrusy notes.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup): Adds a salty, nutty richness to the pesto; can be swapped for a vegan alternative if you prefer.
- Walnuts or almonds (1/4 cup): Provide texture and a subtle earthy crunch in the pesto.
- Garlic clove (1): Fresh garlic amps up the pesto’s flavor profile.
- Lime juice (2 tablespoons): Gives the pesto its vibrant zing and balances the rich ingredients.
How to Make Easy Cilantro Pesto Chicken Tenders Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cilantro Pesto
Start by combining fresh cilantro, Parmesan, either walnuts or almonds, fresh garlic, lime juice, and olive oil in a food processor or blender. Blend everything until you get a smooth, vibrant green pesto. Give it a taste and add salt as needed to brighten and balance the flavors. This fresh cilantro pesto is what sets this chicken apart, so don’t rush it—make sure it’s creamy and perfectly seasoned.
Step 2: Season the Chicken Tenders
In a large mixing bowl, toss the chicken tenders with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. This simple but flavorful dry rub ensures that each bite will have a beautiful smoky warmth with just the right hint of garlic and spice. Make sure each tender is coated evenly for consistent flavor.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to keep things clean and to prevent sticking. Arrange the seasoned chicken tenders on the baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes, flipping the tenders halfway through so both sides get a golden finish. The chicken should be cooked through, tender inside, with slightly crisp edges—absolutely mouthwatering.
Step 4: Serve with Cilantro Pesto
Once the chicken tenders come out of the oven, spoon a generous amount of the fresh cilantro pesto right over them while they’re still hot. Alternatively, serve the pesto on the side for dipping if you prefer. This allows everyone to customize their bites and enjoy the vibrant sauce however they like best.
How to Serve Easy Cilantro Pesto Chicken Tenders Recipe
Garnishes
For a fresh finishing touch, sprinkle some extra chopped cilantro on top of the chicken tenders. Adding a few lime wedges on the side invites everyone to squeeze fresh citrus over their portion, enhancing the lively flavors of the dish even more.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Serve alongside fluffy rice to soak up any extra pesto, or offer roasted vegetables for a colorful, nutritious complement. For an easy, low-carb option, a crisp side salad or your favorite steamed greens work beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Switch things up by using these chicken tenders as a filling for wraps or sandwiches, layering with fresh veggies and a drizzle of extra pesto. They also make fantastic protein-packed salad toppers for a light and healthy meal with a burst of flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover chicken tenders and cilantro pesto in separate airtight containers and refrigerate. They will stay fresh for up to three days. Keeping them separate helps maintain the pesto’s bright flavor and the chicken’s texture.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked chicken tenders in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to two months. It’s best to freeze the cilantro pesto separately in a small container or ice cube tray to preserve its freshness and texture.
Reheating
Reheat leftover chicken tenders in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or until warmed through to keep the meat juicy and tender. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can dry out the chicken. Add fresh cilantro pesto after reheating for that original burst of flavor.
FAQs
Can I use a different nut in the pesto?
Absolutely! While walnuts or almonds are recommended for their texture and flavor, you can substitute pine nuts, cashews, or even sunflower seeds depending on your preference or what you have on hand.
Is this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, by simply omitting the Parmesan cheese or swapping it for a vegan cheese alternative, you can easily make this recipe dairy-free without losing the rich taste and texture of the pesto.
Can I grill the chicken tenders instead of baking?
Yes, grilling works beautifully and adds a pleasant smoky char. Just be sure to oil the grill grates and cook the tenders for about 3-4 minutes per side until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
How spicy is the dish?
This recipe has a mild level of spice due to the black pepper and smoked paprika. If you want more heat, feel free to add a pinch of chili flakes to the seasoning or drizzle some hot sauce alongside the pesto.
Can I make the pesto ahead of time?
Definitely! The cilantro pesto can be made a day or two in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just cover it with a thin layer of olive oil to prevent browning and keep it fresh and vibrant.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Cilantro Pesto Chicken Tenders Recipe has quickly become one of my absolute favorites for its bright, bold flavors and effortless preparation. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or impressing guests, these tenders deliver comfort, freshness, and deliciousness all on one plate. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a regular part of your recipe rotation!
Print
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 baked to perfection and topped with a vibrant, homemade cilantro pesto. The dish combines fresh cilantro, Parmesan, nuts, and lime juice to create a zesty and flavorful pesto that complements the smoky seasoning on the chicken. Quick to prepare and perfect for a healthy, gluten-free, and low-carb meal.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 1 ½ pounds chicken tenders
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
Cilantro Pesto
- 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves (packed)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup walnuts or almonds
- 1 garlic clove
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- â…“ cup olive oil
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure easy cleanup and prevent sticking.
- Make Cilantro Pesto: In a small food processor or blender, combine the fresh cilantro leaves, grated Parmesan cheese, walnuts or almonds, a garlic clove, lime juice, and â…“ cup of olive oil. Blend until smooth, then season the pesto with salt to taste and set aside.
- Prepare Chicken: In a large bowl, toss the chicken tenders with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika to evenly coat and season the meat.
- Bake Chicken Tenders: Arrange 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, until the chicken is golden and cooked through.
- Serve: Remove the chicken tenders from the oven and spoon the fresh cilantro pesto over the hot chicken, or serve the pesto on the side as a flavorful dipping sauce. Garnish with extra cilantro leaves or lime wedges if desired.
Notes
- You can use store-bought pesto if you prefer, but fresh cilantro pesto adds a unique and bright flavor to the dish.
- This chicken pairs wonderfully with rice, roasted vegetables, or inside wraps for a complete meal.
- For a dairy-free version, omit the Parmesan cheese or substitute it with a vegan alternative.
