Italian Chicken Tenders
Tender and flavorful Italian chicken tenders marinated in Italian dressing, perfect for a quick and tasty meal suited for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place raw chicken tenders in a casserole dish.
- Cover the chicken tenders with Italian dressing.
- Cover the dish with Saran Wrap.
- Refrigerate for 4 to 5 hours to marinate.
- Take out the chicken tenders 30 minutes before ready to fry.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like basil or oregano to the Italian dressing before marinating. If you don’t have Italian dressing, a mix of olive oil, vinegar, garlic, and Italian seasoning can work as a substitute. Ensure the chicken is fully coated for maximum flavor infusion during marination. For a crispy finish, try breading the tenders before frying.
Serving Suggestions
These Italian chicken tenders are perfect served with a side of Garlic Pasta Toss or alongside a fresh salad like Linguini Salad With Chicken And Dill. For a complete meal, pair them with roasted vegetables or a dipping sauce like marinara. They also make a delicious filling for wraps or sandwiches.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover marinated chicken tenders can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through, ensuring they stay moist. Avoid microwaving to maintain their texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Italian Chicken Tenders contains roughly 615 calories, with 4g protein, 31g carbohydrates, and 53g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2637mg per serving (115% of the Daily Value).
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I grill the chicken tenders instead of frying them?
Absolutely! Grilling the chicken tenders will give them a nice char and smoky flavor. Preheat the grill to medium-high, and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
How long can I marinate the chicken tenders?
You can marinate the chicken tenders for up to 8 hours for a more intense flavor. Just be cautious not to exceed this time as the acidity in the dressing can make the chicken mushy if left too long.
What can I serve with the Italian chicken tenders?
These tenders pair wonderfully with a fresh salad, such as a Caesar or a simple green salad. You can also serve them with pasta dishes or as part of a larger Italian spread, which may include sides like Pizza Carbonara or roasted vegetables.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).