chicken tenderloin recipes with pasta

Chicken Tenderloin Recipes with Pasta: Quick and Delicious Ideas

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As a busy parent, finding quick, tasty, and family-friendly dinners is a must. That’s why I’m excited to share chicken tenderloin recipes with pasta that go great with pasta. These meals are comforting, homemade, and ready in no time, perfect for busy weeknights.

chicken tenderloin recipes with pasta are a lean protein that can be made into many tasty pasta dishes. Whether you want a classic Alfredo, something spicy, or a one-pot meal, these recipes have you covered. They offer the right mix of flavors and textures to please everyone.

In the next sections, you’ll find quick and easy chicken tenderloin recipes with pasta that will become family favorites. Get ready to make your weeknight dinners more exciting and impress your loved ones with these delicious dishes.

Introduction to Chicken Tenderloin Recipes with Pasta

Chicken Tenderloin Recipes with Pasta are a lean and versatile protein, perfect for quick pasta dishes. They pair well with different pasta shapes and sauces, making a balanced meal. This combo is great for busy weeknights or family dinners.

What Makes Chicken Tenderloin Recipes with Pasta a Great Choice?

Chicken Tenderloin Recipes with Pasta are tender and cook fast, ideal for pasta dishes. They are small, juicy, and mild, fitting well in many pasta meals. From classic Alfredo to spicy Cajun dishes, they’re versatile.

Benefits of Pairing with Pasta

  • Pasta complements the tender Chicken Tenderloin Recipes with Pasta nicely.
  • Together, they offer a balanced and filling meal.
  • These dishes are quick to make, perfect for busy days.
  • There are countless flavor combinations with chicken and pasta.

Exploring Chicken Tenderloin Recipes with Pasta opens up a world of healthy chicken pasta meals. You can enjoy classic Italian or bold international flavors. The options are endless for chicken tenderloin pasta dishes that please your taste buds and nourish your family.

Classic Chicken Alfredo with Tenderloins

Chicken tenderloin alfredo pasta is a beloved classic. It offers a perfect mix of creamy, savory, and indulgent flavors. This recipe uses tender chicken tenderloins with a rich alfredo sauce. It’s great for a comforting dinner or a special occasion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

  • 1 lb. chicken tenderloins, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 12 oz. fusilli pasta
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup half-and-half
  • 4 tbsp. unsalted butter
  • 1/4 tsp. ground nutmeg
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the fusilli pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, sauté the chicken tenderloins until golden brown and cooked through. This takes about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
  4. Gradually pour in the half-and-half, stirring constantly. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until slightly thickened.
  5. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the Parmesan cheese and nutmeg. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Add the cooked fusilli and chicken tenderloins to the sauce, tossing gently to coat. If the sauce seems too thick, add a few tablespoons of the reserved pasta water to achieve the desired consistency.
  7. Serve the creamy chicken tenderloin alfredo pasta immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese if desired.

Tips for the Perfect Alfredo Sauce

To get a rich, creamy alfredo sauce, use high-quality heavy cream or half-and-half with at least 36% milk fat. Simmer the sauce gently and stir frequently. This helps it thicken naturally. Adding a touch of nutmeg enhances the flavor, and a splash of pasta cooking water emulsifies the sauce for a luxurious mouthfeel.

This classic chicken tenderloin alfredo pasta dish is a reader favorite, with hundreds of rave reviews. Serve it with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal. Enjoy!

Spicy Chicken Tenderloin Recipes with Pasta

Craving a flavorful pasta dish? Try spicy Chicken Tenderloin Recipes with Pasta. It’s a mix of tender chicken and spicy flavors. This dish will excite your taste buds!

Choosing the Right Kind of Pasta

For the best spicy chicken pasta, pick a strong pasta shape. Penne, fusilli, or cavatappi work great. They hold the spicy sauce well.

These pasta types have a firm texture. They’re hollow inside, so every bite is full of flavor.

How to Spice It Up

Seasoning is key for spicy chicken pasta. Use spices like cayenne pepper or smoked paprika on the chicken. As it cooks, the chicken absorbs these flavors.

Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the sauce for more heat. But, balance it with creamy elements like parmesan cheese. This creates a perfect taste.

Cooking Tips for Heat Lovers

For extra heat, add diced jalapeños or serrano peppers. They add a spicy kick. Try different hot sauces or spice blends to find your perfect spice level.

Start with small amounts and adjust to taste. This way, you won’t overpower the dish.

Enjoy your spicy chicken pasta with a salad or garlic bread. It’s a complete meal. This dish will be a hit in your chicken tenderloin recipes with pasta and chicken pasta recipes.

One-Pot Chicken Tenderloin Recipes with Pasta

Make your meal prep easier with a tasty one-pot Chicken Tenderloin Recipes with Pasta dish. This recipe mixes juicy chicken with comforting pasta. It’s a quick and easy dinner that’s perfect for busy nights. Plus, it’s easy to clean up because it’s all cooked in one pot.

Advantages of One-Pot Meals

One-pot meals are great for several reasons:

  • They’re convenient because you only need one pot.
  • Ingredients blend together for a richer flavor.
  • Cleaning up is a breeze since you only have one pot to wash.
  • They’re versatile and can be tailored to your taste and dietary needs.

Suggested Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need for this delicious dish:

  • 1.5 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken tenderloins
  • 1 pound of penne pasta
  • 1 cup of diced onion
  • 6 cloves of minced garlic
  • 2 cups of heavy cream
  • 1 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • Seasonings like salt, pepper, and dried herbs

Cooking Instructions

Here’s how to make your one-pot Chicken Tenderloin Recipes with Pasta:

  1. Cook the Chicken Tenderloin Recipes with Pasta in olive oil until they’re golden and cooked, about 5 minutes per side.
  2. Take the chicken out of the pot and set it aside.
  3. In the same pot, sauté the onions and garlic until they smell good, about 2 minutes.
  4. Add the pasta, heavy cream, and seasonings to the pot, and stir well.
  5. Let the mixture simmer until the pasta is al dente, about 25 minutes, stirring now and then.
  6. Stir in the cooked chicken and Parmesan cheese.
  7. Simmer for another 5 minutes to let the flavors mix.
  8. Serve hot, topped with fresh parsley or basil if you like.

Enjoy this easy chicken tenderloin pasta dish. It’s a quick and tasty meal that’s perfect for weeknights. It’s sure to be a hit with your family.

Chicken Parmesan Pasta Bake

Elevate your classic chicken parmesan with a delightful pasta bake. It combines tender chicken tenderloins, savory marinara sauce, and melty cheese. This dish is a family-friendly crowd-pleaser that’s quick and easy to prepare.

A Classic Reimagined

This pasta bake offers a comforting twist on chicken parmesan. It layers cooked pasta, seasoned chicken tenderloin chunks, marinara sauce, and cheese. This creates a hearty and flavorful casserole that’s sure to delight your taste buds.

Layering the Ingredients

  1. Start by cooking your choice of pasta, such as penne or rotini, according to package instructions.
  2. Prepare the baked chicken tenderloin by seasoning it with Italian herbs, garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
  3. In a baking dish, layer the cooked pasta, followed by the seasoned chicken chunks, and then top with your favorite marinara sauce.
  4. Sprinkle a generous layer of shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top.

Baking Tips for Optimal Flavor

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the chicken pasta casserole for about 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. To get a crispy topping, mix breadcrumbs with grated Parmesan cheese and sprinkle it over the top before baking.

This chicken parmesan pasta bake satisfies your cravings for classic comfort food. It’s a convenient one-dish meal perfect for busy weeknights. Serve it with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete and satisfying dinner that the whole family will enjoy.

Pesto Chicken Tenderloin Pasta

Make your chicken tenderloin recipes better with a tasty pesto pasta dish. This mix of fresh pesto, tender chicken, and pasta is both healthy and tasty. It’s easy to make a dish that tastes like it came from a restaurant at home.

Making Homemade Pesto

Begin by making a quick homemade pesto sauce. Blend fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil in a food processor. This green pesto adds a fresh, herbal taste to your pasta.

Ideal Pasta Choices for Pesto Dishes

  • Fusilli or rotini are great with pesto because the sauce sticks to the pasta.
  • Linguine or spaghetti pair well with pesto for a classic taste.
  • Try whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for more texture and nutrition.

Serving Suggestions

After cooking the pasta and mixing it with pesto, add your chicken tenderloins. Add cherry tomatoes or baby spinach for extra nutrition. Serve warm or at room temperature, topped with Parmesan cheese and basil.

Pesto Chicken Tenderloin Pasta

This pesto chicken tenderloin pasta is a great choice for a healthy chicken pasta meal. Enjoy the chicken tenderloin recipes with pasta and relish every bite.

Creamy Garlic Chicken Tenderloin Pasta

Take your pasta to the next level with this Creamy Garlic Chicken Tenderloin Pasta. The secret is the rich, velvety sauce. It coats the chicken tenderloins and pasta perfectly. Let’s explore the key ingredients and cooking methods for a creamy, flavorful dish.

Essential Ingredients for the Sauce

To make the creamy garlic sauce, you’ll need a few important ingredients:

  • Butter: For a smooth and indulgent base
  • Garlic: Freshly minced for maximum flavor
  • Heavy cream: To provide the luscious, creamy texture
  • Parmesan cheese: Grated for a rich, nutty taste
  • Chicken stock: To help thin out the sauce and add depth

Cooking Techniques for Creaminess

To get a velvety smooth sauce, use the right cooking method. Start by sautéing the garlic in butter until it smells great. Then, slowly add the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, simmering gently. This slow cooking melts the cheese perfectly, making the sauce creamy.

To make it even creamier, save some pasta cooking water. Add it to the sauce slowly. The starch in the water helps the ingredients stick together, making the sauce incredibly creamy.

Pairing with Side Dishes

This Creamy Garlic Chicken Tenderloin Pasta is rich and indulgent. It goes well with lighter side dishes. Try it with a fresh salad or steamed veggies to balance the flavors. A lemon-dressed salad or sautéed asparagus adds a nice contrast.

This dish is sure to become a family favorite. Its decadent sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta make it a satisfying meal. Enjoy this creamy chicken pasta recipe for a delicious and filling meal!

IngredientQuantity
Chicken Tenderloins1 pound
Penne Pasta8 ounces
Butter2 tablespoons
Garlic, minced6 cloves
Heavy Cream1 cup
Parmesan Cheese, grated1 cup
Chicken Stock1 cup
Salt and PepperTo taste

Citrus Herb Chicken Tenderloin Pasta

Make your weeknight dinner special with the bright tastes of citrus and fresh herbs. This chicken tenderloin pasta dish is a perfect mix of juicy chicken and long pasta. It’s a meal that everyone will love.

Flavor Pairings with Citrus

Lemon and orange are great with chicken. Their tangy taste balances the chicken’s richness. Adding herbs like rosemary, thyme, and parsley makes it even better, adding freshness and depth.

Preparing the Chicken

Start by marinating the chicken tenderloins in lemon juice, olive oil, and herbs. Let it soak for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for more flavor. Then, grill or pan-fry until it’s golden and cooked.

Best Pasta Types to Use

For a healthy chicken pasta dish, use long pasta like fettuccine, linguine, or spaghetti. These noodles catch the citrus sauce perfectly, blending flavors in every bite.

Just cook the pasta until it’s al dente. Then, mix it with the chicken, a creamy citrus sauce, and some fresh herbs. A squeeze of lemon adds a burst of flavor.

This chicken tenderloin recipes with pasta is a delightful, wholesome meal. It’s sure to impress your family and friends.

Chicken Tenderloin and Veggie Pasta Salad

Take your pasta salad to the next level with grilled chicken tenderloins and fresh veggies. It’s great for a quick lunch, a picnic, or a summer party.

Ingredients for a Fresh Salad

  • 12 oz fusilli pasta, cooked according to package directions
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken tenderloins, grilled and cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 cup grape tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup baby spinach, chopped
  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 1/4 cup diced red onion
  • 2 tbsp freshly chopped dill
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Preparing the Salad Ahead of Time

To prep this salad ahead, cook the pasta and chicken. Then, chop the veggies. Store each part in the fridge. When you’re ready, mix everything in a big bowl and toss with dressing.

Dressing Options

For the dressing, mix:

  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste

This zesty dressing pairs well with the grilled chicken and veggies. It makes a light, tasty pasta salad.

grilled chicken tenderloin pasta salad

This salad is not just good-looking; it’s also healthy and tasty. It’s perfect for your next meal or event. Enjoy this refreshing dish!

Slow Cooker Chicken Tenderloin Pasta

Looking for a simple and tasty chicken tenderloin pasta recipe? The slow cooker is your answer. It’s great for busy nights, making a tasty chicken and pasta dish with little effort.

Benefits of Using a Slow Cooker

Slow cooking chicken tenderloins in the crockpot makes them tender and juicy. The long cooking time blends flavors, creating a creamy sauce. This method lets you relax while your meal cooks.

Recommended Seasonings

  • Italian herbs (such as basil, oregano, and thyme)
  • Garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper

These seasonings enhance the chicken and pasta, adding lots of flavor. You can try different spices and herbs to match your taste.

Cooking Times and Tips

Cook the chicken tenderloins on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours. Add your favorite pasta in the last 30 minutes. This keeps the pasta just right.

Top the slow cooker chicken tenderloin pasta with parmesan cheese for extra flavor. This recipe serves 4-6 people. Enjoy this chicken tenderloin recipes with pasta any weeknight!

“The slow cooker is a busy cook’s best friend when it comes to creating easy chicken tenderloin recipes with pasta.”

Tips for Cooking Perfect Chicken Tenderloins

Creating delicious chicken tenderloin recipes with pasta starts with perfectly cooked chicken. Here are some tips to make sure your chicken tenderloins are always a hit:

Recommended Cooking Methods

Cook chicken tenderloins quickly over medium-high heat for the best results. You can grill, pan-fry, or bake them. Grilling or pan-frying adds a nice sear and keeps the inside juicy.

Temperature Guidelines

The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety. Use a meat thermometer to check if they’re cooked right without drying out.

Avoiding Common Mistakes

  • Flatten tenderloins to an even thickness for uniform cooking.
  • Marinating can add delicious flavor and moisture to the chicken.
  • When incorporating into pasta dishes, cook the chicken separately before adding to the sauce or pasta to ensure proper doneness.
RecipeCook TimeServingsSauce IngredientsAdditional Tips
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenderloin and Broccoli Pasta35 minutes41 cup heavy cream, 1 cup grated ParmesanCook broccoli with pasta in the last 3-4 minutes. Season chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. Add lemon zest or juice for extra flavor.
Easy Oven Baked Chicken Pasta35 minutes41 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream, 1 cup chicken stock, 1/4 cup white wineCoat chicken in flour before baking. Bake uncovered for about 12 minutes. Can be made ahead and reheated, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore creamy texture.

By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating perfectly cooked chicken tenderloins. They will elevate your pasta dishes to the next level.

Conclusion: Enjoying Chicken Tenderloin Pasta Dishes

Chicken tenderloin pasta dishes are perfect for quick, tasty meals. You can choose from classic Alfredo, spicy dishes, or one-pot wonders. The mix of tender chicken and tasty pasta opens up endless options for your taste.

Final Thoughts on Versatility

Chicken tenderloin’s mild taste makes it great with many sauces and pasta types. Try pesto, creamy garlic, or other flavors. Add herbs, spices, and veggies to make your dish unique.

Encouraging Experimentation in the Kitchen

Don’t hesitate to try new recipes and ingredients. Chicken tenderloin pasta dishes are a blank slate for your creativity. Explore different flavors and textures to find your new favorites. With a bit of experimentation, you’ll discover meals you’ll love to make again and again.

FAQ

What makes chicken tenderloins a great choice for pasta dishes?

Chicken tenderloins are lean and versatile. They go well with many pasta shapes and sauces. They cook fast, perfect for weeknights.

What are the benefits of combining chicken tenderloins with pasta?

Chicken and pasta together offer a good balance of protein and carbs. This makes for satisfying meals. The pasta’s texture complements the chicken’s tenderness.

How can I make a creamy Chicken Alfredo with tenderloins?

Start by cooking the chicken tenderloins until they’re golden. Then, make a rich sauce with butter, garlic, and cream. Mix the cooked pasta, sauce, and chicken. Add pasta water to get the right consistency.

What are some tips for making a spicy chicken tenderloin pasta dish?

Choose sturdy pasta like penne or fusilli for a spicy dish. Use red pepper flakes, cayenne, or hot sauce for heat. Season the chicken with spices before cooking. Balance the spice with creamy elements like parmesan or cream.

What are the advantages of a one-pot chicken tenderloin pasta meal?

One-pot meals are easy and clean up is a breeze. Cook the chicken first, then add pasta and liquids. Simmer until the pasta is done and the sauce thickens, infusing flavors.

How can I transform classic Chicken Parmesan into a pasta bake?

Layer cooked pasta, seasoned chicken, marinara sauce, and cheese in a dish. Top with breadcrumbs and Parmesan for a crispy crust. Bake until it’s bubbly and golden.

What are some ways to incorporate pesto into a chicken tenderloin pasta dish?

Make a pesto sauce with basil, garlic, pine nuts, parmesan, and olive oil. Pair it with grilled chicken and short pasta shapes. Toss cooked pasta and chicken with pesto. Add cherry tomatoes or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.

How can I make a creamy garlic chicken tenderloin pasta?

Cook chicken tenderloins separately, then slice and add to a sauce. Use butter, garlic, cream, and parmesan cheese. Simmer the sauce gently. Toss in cooked pasta, adjusting consistency with pasta water.

What are some tips for grilling or pan-searing chicken tenderloins for a pasta dish?

Cook chicken quickly over medium-high heat, whether grilling, pan-frying, or baking. Make sure it reaches 165°F (74°C) for safety. Flatten the tenderloins for even cooking. Marinating adds flavor and moisture.

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