Description
This Easy Cilantro Pesto Chicken Tenders recipe features tender chicken baked to golden perfection and topped with a vibrant, fresh cilantro pesto. Quick to prepare and bursting with flavor, it makes a perfect healthy weeknight main dish with Latin-inspired flair.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Chicken
- 1 ½ pounds chicken tenders
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
For the 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 the 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 the cilantro pesto: In a small food processor or blender, combine the fresh cilantro leaves, grated Parmesan cheese, nuts (walnuts or almonds), garlic clove, lime juice, and olive oil. Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Season with salt to taste and set aside.
- Prepare the chicken: In a large bowl, toss the chicken tenders with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, ½ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon black pepper, ¼ teaspoon garlic powder, and ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika until evenly coated with the seasoning.
- Bake the chicken: Arrange the seasoned chicken tenders in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 18–20 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure even cooking and a golden brown color. The chicken should be cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Serve with pesto: Remove the chicken tenders from the oven and spoon the fresh cilantro pesto over the hot chicken or serve it on the side for dipping. Garnish with extra cilantro leaves or lime wedges if desired for a fresh presentation.
Notes
- You can use store-bought pesto if short on time, but fresh cilantro pesto gives a vibrant and unique flavor twist.
- Serve this dish with rice, roasted vegetables, or wrapped inside tortillas for easy meals.
- For a dairy-free version, omit the Parmesan or substitute with a vegan cheese alternative.
- Toast the nuts lightly before blending for an extra depth of flavor in the pesto.
