Southwestern Turkey Tenderloins
Juicy turkey tenderloins simmered in a flavorful salsa and chili spice blend, finished with fresh cilantro—perfect for a quick, savory, and slightly spicy meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat oil in a 12-inch nonstick skillet over medium-high heat.
- Cook turkey tenderloins in oil for 4 to 6 minutes, turning once, until browned.
- Stir in salsa-style chunky tomatoes, sliced green bell pepper, chili powder, sugar, and lime juice.
- Reduce heat to medium low, cover, and simmer for 25 to 30 minutes or until the juice of the turkey is no longer pink when the centers of the thickest pieces are cut.
- Slice the turkey.
- Serve with the sauce and sprinkle with chopped fresh cilantro.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, marinate the turkey tenderloins in lime juice and chili powder for an hour before cooking. If you don’t have salsa-style chunky tomatoes, you can use diced tomatoes mixed with a bit of salsa for a similar effect. Consider swapping the turkey for chicken if preferred. Adjust the chili powder to suit your spice tolerance.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Southwestern Turkey Tenderloins over a bed of rice or quinoa for a complete meal. Pair it with a side of black beans or a fresh corn salad for a delightful contrast. It also goes well with avocado slices or a dollop of sour cream to balance the spiciness. This dish pairs beautifully with Weight Watchers Quick Chili.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the turkey and sauce in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed, and cover until heated through. You can also microwave for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Southwestern Turkey Tenderloins contains roughly 188 calories, with 6g protein, 44g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (198% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (33% of the Daily Value), and iron (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. It also contributes 9g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen turkey tenderloins for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen turkey tenderloins, but ensure they are completely thawed before cooking for even cooking. Plan ahead by leaving them in the refrigerator overnight to thaw, or use the defrost setting on your microwave if you're short on time.
What can I substitute for fresh cilantro?
If you're not a fan of cilantro, you can substitute it with fresh parsley for a milder flavor. Alternatively, a sprinkle of green onions or a bit of oregano can also enhance the dish without overpowering it.
How can I make this dish spicier?
For extra heat, you can add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce when you stir in the tomatoes. Adjust the amount of chili powder to your taste, and consider serving with a spicy salsa on the side for those who like it hot.
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).