Chicken tender crock pot recipes offer a convenient and flavorful way to prepare meals with minimal effort. This method allows you to create tender, juicy chicken dishes that are perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping. The slow cooking process infuses the chicken with rich flavors, making it a popular choice for many home cooks.
Why Chicken Tender Crock Pot Recipes Are Perfect for Busy Weeknights
One of the main advantages of using a crock pot for chicken tender crock pot recipes is the ability to cook meals safely and efficiently. However, it’s important to follow certain guidelines to ensure food safety. For instance, it is generally not recommended to cook frozen chicken in a crock pot due to the risk of bacteria growth during the slow heating process. For more information on crock pot safety, you can refer to the USDA’s guidelines.
When selecting a crock pot for your chicken tender crock pot recipes, it’s essential to choose one that suits your needs. Whether you’re cooking for a large family or just for yourself, there are various options available. For a comprehensive guide on the best slow cookers, check out Good Housekeeping’s reviews.
Classic Garlic Butter Chicken Tender Crock Pot Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs chicken tenderloins
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 2 medium carrots, chopped
- 2 medium potatoes, diced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
- Preparation: Start by washing and chopping your carrots and potatoes into bite-sized pieces. Mince the garlic cloves finely.
- Seasoning: Season the chicken tenderloins with salt and pepper. Make sure each piece is evenly coated.
- Combine Ingredients: Place the seasoned chicken tenderloins in the crock pot. Add the chopped carrots and potatoes around the chicken.
- Garlic Butter Mixture: In a small bowl, mix the melted butter and minced garlic. Pour this mixture evenly over the chicken and vegetables in the crock pot.
- Cooking: Cook on low for 6-8 hours. This slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in tender chicken and perfectly cooked vegetables.
- Serving: Once done, garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Tips:
- Lemon Juice: Adding a splash of lemon juice can enhance the flavor, providing a tangy contrast to the rich buttery sauce.
- Cooking Time: Ensure the chicken is fully cooked before serving. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Variations: You can add other vegetables like green beans or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: Approximately 350 per serving
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fat: 18g
Health Benefits:
- Chicken is a great source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth.
- Carrots are rich in beta-carotene, which converts to vitamin A in the body and supports eye health.
- Potatoes provide a good source of fiber and vitamin C, aiding in digestion and immune function.
Lemon Garlic Chicken Tender Crock Pot Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs chicken tenderloins
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 cup chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
- Preparation: Begin by mincing the garlic cloves and measuring out the other ingredients.
- Seasoning: Season the chicken tenderloins with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Ensure each piece is well coated.
- Browning: Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Brown the chicken tenderloins on all sides. This step adds a depth of flavor and helps to seal in the juices.
- Combine Ingredients: Place the browned chicken tenderloins in the crock pot. Add the lemon juice, minced garlic, and chicken broth.
- Cooking: Cook on low for 3-4 hours. The lemon juice and garlic will infuse the chicken with a tangy, aromatic flavor.
- Serving: Serve with quinoa or couscous for a light meal. You can also pair it with roasted vegetables or a side salad.
Tips:
- Double the Lemon Juice: For an extra zesty flavor, double the amount of lemon juice. This will enhance the tanginess and complement the garlic beautifully.
- Cooking Time: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Variations: Add sliced lemons to the crock pot for a more intense lemon flavor. You can also include herbs like thyme or rosemary for added depth.
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: Approximately 250 per serving
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fat: 8g
Health Benefits:
- Lemon juice is rich in vitamin C, which supports immune function and aids in iron absorption.
- Garlic contains compounds that have been shown to support heart health and boost the immune system.
BBQ Pineapple Chicken Tender Crock Pot Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs chicken tenderloins
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 cup pineapple chunks, drained
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preparation: Drain the pineapple chunks and set aside. Measure out the other ingredients.
- Seasoning: Season the chicken tenderloins with salt and pepper.
- Combine Ingredients: Place the chicken tenderloins in the crock pot. Add the BBQ sauce, pineapple chunks, brown sugar, and soy sauce. Stir to combine.
- Cooking: Cook on low for 4-6 hours. The BBQ sauce and pineapple will create a sweet and tangy flavor that complements the chicken beautifully.
- Serving: Serve over rice or with a side of coleslaw. You can also pair it with corn on the cob or baked beans for a heartier meal.
Tips:
- Red Pepper Flakes: Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can give the dish a slight kick, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
- Cooking Time: Ensure the chicken is fully cooked by checking the internal temperature with a meat thermometer.
- Variations: For a smokier flavor, use a BBQ sauce with liquid smoke. You can also add diced bell peppers for extra texture and flavor.
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: Approximately 300 per serving
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fat: 8g
Health Benefits:
- Pineapple is rich in vitamin C and manganese, which support immune function and bone health.
- BBQ sauce can be high in sugar, so opt for a lower-sugar variety if watching your sugar intake.
Creamy Tuscan Chicken Tender Crock Pot Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs chicken tenderloins
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preparation: Mince the garlic cloves and chop the sun-dried tomatoes. Measure out the other ingredients.
- Seasoning: Season the chicken tenderloins with salt, pepper, and dried basil.
- Combine Ingredients: Place the chicken tenderloins in the crock pot. Add the heavy cream, sun-dried tomatoes, Parmesan cheese, and minced garlic. Stir to combine.
- Cooking: Cook on low for 5-6 hours. The heavy cream and Parmesan cheese will create a rich, creamy sauce that coats the chicken.
- Serving: Serve with pasta or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. You can also pair it with a side salad or roasted vegetables.
Tips:
- Spinach: Adding spinach can enhance the nutritional value and add a pop of color to the dish. Stir in fresh spinach during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Cooking Time: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Variations: For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream. You can also add mushrooms or artichoke hearts for extra flavor and texture.
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: Approximately 350 per serving
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fat: 22g
Health Benefits:
- Sun-dried tomatoes are rich in lycopene, an antioxidant that supports heart health.
- Heavy cream is high in fat, so enjoy this dish in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Buffalo Ranch Chicken Tender Crock Pot Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs chicken tenderloins
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
- 1 packet ranch seasoning
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
- Preparation: Measure out the buffalo sauce and ranch seasoning. Melt the butter in a small bowl.
- Seasoning: Season the chicken tenderloins with salt and pepper.
- Combine Ingredients: Place the chicken tenderloins in the crock pot. Add the buffalo sauce, ranch seasoning, and melted butter. Stir to combine.
- Cooking: Cook on low for 4-5 hours. The buffalo sauce and ranch seasoning will create a spicy, tangy flavor that coats the chicken.
- Serving: Serve with celery sticks and blue cheese dressing to complement the spicy flavors. You can also pair it with a side salad or coleslaw.
Tips:
- Spice Level: Adjust the buffalo sauce to your preferred spice level. For a milder version, use less buffalo sauce or add more ranch seasoning.
- Cooking Time: Ensure the chicken is fully cooked by checking the internal temperature with a meat thermometer.
- Variations: For a creamier version, stir in some cream cheese or Greek yogurt during the last 30 minutes of cooking. You can also add diced onions or bell peppers for extra texture.
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: Approximately 250 per serving
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fat: 12g
Health Benefits:
- Buffalo sauce is typically made with vinegar and hot sauce, which can aid in digestion and metabolism.
- Ranch seasoning contains herbs and spices that add flavor without adding significant calories.
Chicken Fajita Tender Crock Pot Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs chicken tenderloins
- 1 packet fajita seasoning
- 2 bell peppers, sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preparation: Slice the bell peppers and onion. Measure out the salsa and fajita seasoning.
- Seasoning: Season the chicken tenderloins with salt, pepper, and fajita seasoning.
- Combine Ingredients: Place the chicken tenderloins in the crock pot. Add the sliced bell peppers, onion, and salsa. Stir to combine.
- Cooking: Cook on low for 3-4 hours. The fajita seasoning and salsa will create a flavorful, slightly spicy sauce that coats the chicken and vegetables.
- Serving: Serve with warm tortillas and your favorite toppings, such as avocado, sour cream, or shredded cheese. You can also pair it with a side of Mexican rice or refried beans.
Tips:
- Black Beans: Adding a can of black beans can make the dish more filling and add extra protein and fiber.
- Cooking Time: Ensure the chicken is fully cooked by checking the internal temperature with a meat thermometer.
- Variations: For a spicier version, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper. You can also use different colors of bell peppers for added visual appeal.
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: Approximately 250 per serving
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fat: 8g
Health Benefits:
- Bell peppers are rich in vitamin C and A, which support immune function and eye health.
- Onions contain compounds that have been shown to support heart health and reduce inflammation.
FAQs
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Can I use frozen chicken tenders in the crock pot?
- It is generally not recommended to use frozen chicken in the crock pot due to food safety concerns. Thaw the chicken completely before cooking to ensure even cooking and to prevent bacterial growth.
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How long should I cook chicken tenders in the crock pot?
- Chicken tender crock pot recipes typically cook for 3-4 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high, depending on the recipe. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should reach 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
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Can I add vegetables to the crock pot with the chicken tenders?
- Yes, adding vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and bell peppers can enhance the meal. Ensure they are cut to a size that will cook evenly with the chicken. Add heartier vegetables like potatoes and carrots at the beginning, and more delicate vegetables like bell peppers and spinach during the last hour of cooking.
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How do I thicken the sauce in the crock pot?
- You can thicken the sauce by making a cornstarch slurry. Mix 1-2 tablespoons of cornstarch with an equal amount of cold water until smooth. Stir this into the crock pot during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Alternatively, you can remove the chicken and vegetables and simmer the sauce on the stovetop to reduce and thicken it.
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Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?
- Yes, but chicken breasts may require a longer cooking time compared to tenders. Adjust the cooking time accordingly and use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). You may also want to cut the chicken breasts into smaller pieces to ensure even cooking.
By following these chicken tender crock pot recipes and tips, you can create delicious and easy meals that your family will love. Enjoy the convenience of slow cooking and the rich flavors it brings to your dishes. For more delicious recipes, check out our White Trash Recipe and Perfect Tuxedo Cake.
