Chicken tenderloins are a quick, easy, and endlessly versatile ingredient that every home cook should have in their arsenal. These tender strips of breast meat cook up lightning fast while remaining incredibly moist and flavorful. However, to get the best results when cooking chicken tenderloins, proper technique is essential. One of the most common questions is just how long should you cook chicken tenderloins at 375°F? Read on for a complete guide to achieving tender, juicy perfection every time.
Understanding Chicken Tenderloins
Before diving into exact cook times, it’s helpful to understand what exactly chicken tenderloins are and what makes them unique. Chicken tenderloins are elongated strips of muscle located underneath the chicken breast. Sometimes referred to as chicken tenders or inner fillets they connect the breast meat to the keel bone.
Compared to a chicken breast, tenderloins have a thinner, more uniform shape. They also contain less connective tissue, making them inherently tender and quick cooking Their leanness means they can easily dry out if overcooked. However, with the right prep and cook time, chicken tenderloins deliver a tender, moist texture perfect for everything from simple weeknight meals to upscale entrees
The Benefits of Cooking at 375°F
Cooking chicken tenderloins at 375°F offers the ideal balance of developing flavorful browning on the exterior while thoroughly cooking the inside without drying it out. Here are some of the benefits of using this temperature:
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Browning – The higher heat promotes the Maillard reaction, leading to golden browning and more complex, roasted flavors.
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Faster cooking – 375°F decreases total cook time compared to lower temperatures, perfect for quick weeknight meals.
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Moist interior – The high heat quickly seals in moisture before it can escape from the tenderloins.
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Food safety – Reaching an internal temperature of 165°F ensures any potential bacteria are killed.
Cook Times for Fresh vs. Frozen
Cook times can vary depending on whether you are using fresh or frozen chicken tenderloins. Here are some guidelines:
Fresh Chicken Tenderloins
- 1/2 inch thick: Cook 15-18 minutes
- 3/4 inch thick: Cook 18-22 minutes
- 1 inch thick: Cook 20-25 minutes
Frozen Chicken Tenderloins
- 1/2 inch thick: Cook 22-28 minutes
- 3/4 inch thick: Cook 25-32 minutes
- 1 inch thick: Cook 30-35 minutes
No matter which you use, always check internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure food safety. The thickest part of the tenderloin should reach 165°F.
Proper Prep for Best Results
Taking a few easy prep steps before cooking will help ensure your chicken tenderloins come out moist and flavorful:
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Pat dry – Blot tenderloins with paper towels to remove excess moisture that can inhibit browning.
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Season generously – Use salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, oregano, and other spices to add flavor.
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Coat lightly in oil – A light brushing of oil helps promote even browning.
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Use a rimmed baking sheet – This prevents juices from dripping off and smoking.
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Don’t overcrowd – Allow space between each tenderloin for air circulation.
Cook to Proper Internal Temperature
The only way to reliably determine doneness for chicken tenderloins is to use an instant-read meat thermometer. Check the temperature by inserting the probe into the thickest part of the tenderloin, avoiding bone or fat.
For food safety, chicken must reach an internal temperature of 165°F, as measured in multiple spots. The tenderloins should be firm with no pink color remaining when pierced. If undercooked, return to the oven for a few more minutes until 165°F is reached.
Resting and Carryover Cooking
After removing chicken tenderloins from the oven, allow them to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This resting period is important for two reasons:
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Carryover cooking will increase the internal temperature around 5-10°F.
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Resting allows juices to redistribute evenly throughout the meat rather than leaking out when sliced.
After resting, the chicken is ready to serve and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions
One of the best aspects of chicken tenderloins is their versatility. Here are just a few serving ideas:
- Chicken sandwiches or wraps
- Salad toppers
- Tacos or fajitas
- Pasta dishes
- Skewers or kabobs
- Stir fries or noodle bowls
Get creative with flavors by using various marinades and spice rubs. Chicken tenderloins truly shine when paired with bright, acidic ingredients like citrus, tomatoes, garlic, herbs, and chili peppers.
Common Questions
Can you overcook chicken tenderloins at 375°F?
Yes, it’s possible to overcook tenderloins at this temperature if cooked well beyond the recommended cook times. Always rely on a thermometer for doneness rather than time alone.
Do you need to flip chicken tenderloins while cooking?
Flipping halfway through is optional, but not strictly necessary. The high heat will thoroughly cook both sides as long as the minimum internal temperature is reached.
Can you cook frozen chicken tenderloins at 375°F?
Yes, adjusting cook times slightly longer will allow frozen tenderloins to cook through fully at 375°F. Just be sure to check temperature.
What temperature should chicken tenderloins be when done?
Chicken tenderloins are safe to eat once they reach an internal temperature of 165°F. If undercooked, return to oven until 165°F is reached.
Perfectly Cooked Chicken Tenderloins
Cooking chicken tenderloins at 375°F results in a crispy browned exterior while keeping the inside incredibly moist and tender. With the proper prep and cook times based on thickness, you can achieve delicious, fool-proof results every time. Just be sure to always rely on an instant-read thermometer to guarantee safety and prevent overcooking. In no time, you’ll be making these quick and easy tenderloins like a pro.
Easy Recipe: Oven-Baked Chicken Tenderloins
Heres a simple recipe for juicy, flavorful chicken tenderloins:
- 1 lb chicken tenderloins
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Optional: a pinch of cayenne for heat
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- In a bowl, toss chicken tenderloins with olive oil and spices until evenly coated.
- Place in a single layer on the baking sheet.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure theyve reached 165°F.
- Rest 5 minutes before serving.
How to Serve Baked Chicken Tenderloins
Baked chicken tenderloins are incredibly versatile and can be served in countless ways to suit any meal, from light lunches to hearty dinners. Their mild flavor and tender texture make them the perfect protein to pair with various sides, sauces, and cuisines.
- With Classic Sides Serve chicken tenderloins alongside mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, and a side of gravy for a comforting, home-style meal. Roasted vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or green beans pair beautifully.
- Over Salads Sliced baked tenderloins make a fantastic topping for fresh salads. Try them on a Caesar salad, a Greek salad with olives and feta, or a southwest salad with black beans, corn, and avocado.
- In Wraps or Sandwiches Wrap tenderloins in a warm tortilla with lettuce, tomato, and ranch dressing for a quick lunch. They’re also great in sandwiches with melted cheese, pickles, and your favorite sauces on a toasted bun.
- With Pasta or Grains Baked tenderloins are great served over creamy Alfredo pasta, pesto linguine, or rice bowls with stir-fried vegetables. Quinoa or couscous also work well as a hearty base.
- Tacos and Burritos Sliced or chopped tenderloins can be added to tacos with salsa, guacamole, and shredded cheese. Burritos with beans, rice, and veggies can also be made by wrapping them in a large tortilla.
- In Meal Prep Chicken tenderloins are ideal for weekly meal prep. Pair them with brown rice and roasted veggies in containers for ready-to-go lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Whether keeping things simple or going bold with flavors, baked chicken tenderloins are a flexible, delicious way to build your meal around lean protein.