When I first made this Garlic Butter Chicken Tenders Recipe, I couldn’t believe how quickly it came together. It was one of those busy weeknights where I needed a fast, delicious meal, and this recipe delivered beyond my expectations. The aroma of garlic and butter filled my kitchen, and the chicken came out so juicy and flavorful.

It has become a staple in my home, and I am excited to share it with you. This simple dish proves that you don’t need a lot of time to create something truly special for dinner. You can also enjoy similar comfort with Roasted Garlic Cheddar Cauliflower Soup Recipe on a chilly night.

Ingredients for Garlic Butter Chicken Tenders

This recipe relies on a handful of simple yet flavorful ingredients to create a memorable dish. Using fresh, high-quality components will make a noticeable difference in the final taste and texture.

1 lb. chicken tenders: These are the most tender part of the chicken breast, which ensures a naturally juicy result. If you can’t find them, you can slice regular chicken breasts into strips.
1 teaspoon smoked paprika: This spice adds a beautiful color and a subtle smoky flavor that complements the chicken perfectly.
3 dashes cayenne powder: A little bit of cayenne provides a gentle warmth without making the dish overly spicy. You can adjust the amount based on your preference for heat.
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature: Using unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness of the dish. Room temperature butter melts more evenly in the pan.
3–4 cloves garlic, minced: Freshly minced garlic is key for a powerful, aromatic flavor. Avoid pre-minced jarred garlic if possible, as its flavor is less potent.
1 teaspoon bottled Italian seasoning: A blend of dried herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme adds a classic, savory depth to the dish.
Salt, to taste: Seasoning is crucial, so add salt according to your preference to enhance all the other flavors.
1/2 tablespoon lemon juice: A splash of fresh lemon juice brightens up the rich butter sauce and helps to tenderize the chicken.
1 tablespoon chopped parsley: Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a clean, peppery taste that cuts through the richness of the butter.
Lemon wedges for serving: An extra squeeze of lemon just before eating elevates the dish with a final burst of freshness. You could also pair it with a light seafood option like Cod in a Tomato Lemon Butter Sauce Recipe for a complete meal.

Note: The ingredient quantities listed are sufficient for approximately 3 servings.

Recipe Variations

One of the great things about this recipe is how easily you can adapt it to your taste or dietary needs. Here are a few variations to try:

Dairy-Free: To make this recipe dairy-free, simply substitute the unsalted butter with a high-quality dairy-free butter alternative or use olive oil. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.
Herb Variations: Feel free to experiment with different herbs. Fresh thyme or rosemary would be excellent additions, adding a more earthy and robust flavor to the garlic butter sauce.
Spice It Up: If you enjoy more heat, increase the amount of cayenne powder or add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the garlic. A finely chopped jalapeño could also be sautéed with the garlic for an extra kick.
Add Some Veggies: Make it a one-pan meal by tossing in some quick-cooking vegetables. Spinach, sliced mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes can be added to the skillet during the last few minutes of cooking.

Cooking Time

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes

Equipment You Need

You only need a few basic kitchen tools to make this simple recipe.

Cast-Iron Skillet: This is ideal for achieving a perfect sear on the chicken, as it retains heat exceptionally well.
Tongs: Use these for flipping the chicken tenders easily without piercing the meat, which helps keep them juicy.
Small Bowl: A small bowl is useful for seasoning the chicken tenders before they go into the pan.
Cutting Board and Knife: You’ll need these for mincing the garlic and chopping the fresh parsley.

How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken Tenders

This skillet recipe comes together in just a few straightforward steps, making it perfect for a quick and satisfying meal any night of the week. The key is to work quickly over high heat to ensure the chicken stays tender and moist.

Season the Chicken

First, place the chicken tenders in a bowl and sprinkle them with the smoked paprika and cayenne powder. Use your hands or a pair of tongs to toss the chicken until each tender is evenly coated with the spices. Set the seasoned chicken aside while you prepare the skillet.

Sear the Tenders

Heat a cast-iron skillet over high heat and add 3 tablespoons of the butter. Once the butter has completely melted and starts to sizzle, carefully place the seasoned chicken tenders in the skillet in a single layer. Cook them for 1-2 minutes without moving them to get a nice brown sear, then flip and cook the other side for another minute.

Create the Garlic Butter Sauce

Push the chicken tenders to one side of the skillet to make space. Add the remaining tablespoon of butter to the empty area. Once it melts, add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant, then sprinkle the Italian seasoning over the chicken.

Finish and Combine

Stir everything together, combining the garlic and seasonings with the chicken. Add the salt and lemon juice, and continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the chicken is cooked through and lightly charred. Finally, turn off the heat, add the chopped parsley, and stir one last time to combine.

Additional Tips for Making this Recipe Better

Having made this dish many times, I’ve picked up a few tricks that take it from good to great.

Don’t Crowd the Pan: I always make sure to cook the chicken in a single layer. If your skillet isn’t large enough, it’s better to cook the tenders in two batches. This ensures they sear properly instead of steaming, which is key to developing that beautiful golden-brown crust.
Pat the Chicken Dry: Before seasoning, I pat the chicken tenders completely dry with a paper towel. This small step helps the spices adhere better and allows the chicken to get a much better sear in the hot pan.
Watch the Garlic Carefully: Minced garlic can burn very quickly, especially on high heat. I always add it toward the end of the cooking process and stir it constantly for just 30 seconds before mixing it with the chicken. This releases its flavor without it turning bitter.

How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken Tenders

These chicken tenders are wonderfully versatile and can be served in many ways. For a classic dinner, pair them with creamy mashed potatoes and steamed green beans or roasted asparagus. The rich garlic butter sauce is perfect for drizzling over the potatoes.

They also make a great topping for a simple pasta dish. Toss them with fettuccine and a little extra butter or olive oil for an instant meal. For a lighter option, serve the chicken tenders over a fresh salad or with a side of quinoa and roasted vegetables. Garnish with extra fresh parsley and lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the chicken just before eating.

Nutritional Information

Here is an approximate nutritional breakdown for this recipe per serving:

Calories: 319 kcal
Protein: 33g
Carbohydrates: 3g
Fat: 19g

Make Ahead and Storage

This recipe is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers are still delicious. Here are some guidelines for storing and reheating.

Storing:
Allow the chicken tenders to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The garlic butter sauce will solidify when chilled, but it will melt again upon reheating.

Freezing:
You can freeze the cooked chicken tenders for longer storage. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, where they will keep for up to 2 months.

Reheating:
For the best results, reheat the chicken tenders gently in a skillet over low-medium heat with a splash of water or chicken broth to keep them from drying out. You can also microwave them in short intervals until warmed through, but be careful not to overcook them, as they can become tough.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are so many reasons to love these garlic butter chicken tenders, but here are a few of my favorites.

Incredibly Fast: This entire meal comes together in just 15 minutes from start to finish. It’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights when you need a delicious dinner on the table with minimal effort.
Packed with Flavor: The combination of garlic, butter, smoked paprika, and lemon creates a sauce that is rich, savory, and bright. Every bite is loaded with flavor, making it a dish that everyone will enjoy.
Simple, Accessible Ingredients: The recipe uses common pantry staples that you likely already have on hand. There’s no need to run to the store for special items to create this impressive meal.
Versatile and Customizable: You can easily adjust the spices to your liking, add vegetables, or serve it with a variety of side dishes. It’s a flexible recipe that can be adapted to suit different tastes and preferences.

Ash Tyrrell