Garlic Butter Chicken Tenders

Garlic Butter Chicken Tenders are absolutely dreamy—think tender, juicy strips of chicken soaked in a luscious, fragrant garlic butter sauce. Each bite is ultra flavorful with a punch of garlic, a hint of lemon, and buttery goodness that will have everyone reaching for seconds.

This recipe is hands-down my go-to when I need something quick, delicious, and guaranteed to satisfy. It's a one-pan wonder, ready in less than 30 minutes and perfect for hectic weeknights or casual family dinners.

My family requests these chicken tenders again and again! They're restaurant-quality but come together with just a handful of pantry staples. Trust me, you'll want to bookmark this for those nights when you need something easy and crowd-pleasing.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Incredibly juicy and flavorful: The chicken stays succulent thanks to a quick sear and buttery garlic sauce.
• Weeknight superstar: Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal prep and cleanup.
• Kid and adult approved: Mild yet savory, this dish pleases even picky eaters.
• Versatile serving options: Pair with pasta, rice, veggies, or toss in a wrap for lunch the next day.

Key Ingredients for Garlic Butter Chicken Tenders

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Chicken Tenders

Chicken tenders are the star of this dish, providing tender, quick-cooking protein. Look for fresh or thawed tenders for the most even searing. If you only have chicken breasts on hand, you can slice them into strips of similar size for an equally delicious result.

Fresh Garlic

Freshly minced garlic delivers that bold, aromatic flavor that sets this recipe apart. Always mince garlic from fresh cloves for maximum flavor. While pre-minced garlic will work in a pinch, the flavor is subtler.

Butter

Rich, creamy butter creates the luscious sauce that coats each chicken tender. Use unsalted butter so you can control the salt level. For dairy-free, try a vegan butter substitute, though the depth of flavor may vary.

Lemon Juice

A squeeze of lemon brightens the garlic butter and balances its richness. Fresh lemon juice is best, but bottled works if that's what you have. You can also add a bit of lemon zest for extra zing.

Parsley

Chopped fresh parsley adds a burst of color and a touch of freshness at the end. Flat-leaf parsley is preferred, but curly will do. Swap with baby spinach or omit entirely if you prefer.

Instructions for Garlic Butter Chicken Tenders

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Season and Dredge the Chicken

Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels, then season both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika. Lightly dredge each tender in flour, shaking off any excess. This light coating helps them crisp up beautifully and ensures the sauce clings.

Sear the Chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon of butter and the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add chicken tenders in a single layer (work in batches if needed). Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and just cooked through. Remove chicken to a plate and tent with foil to keep warm.

Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

Reduce the heat to medium, then add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet. Stir in minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds, just until fragrant—don't let it brown! Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice, scraping the bottom of the pan to release any flavorful bits.

Finish and Serve

Return the chicken tenders (and any juices) to the skillet, turning to coat well in the buttery sauce. Simmer for 1-2 minutes until everything is heated through. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve immediately with extra lemon wedges if desired.

Recipe Variations

Make It Creamy

Craving extra decadence? Add a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half to the garlic butter sauce for a luscious, creamy finish. Stir it in after the broth and lemon juice, and simmer gently until warmed through.

Spice It Up

Love a little heat? Sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne into the garlic butter sauce. You can even toss in some smoked paprika for depth.

Gluten-Free Twist

To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute the flour with a 1:1 gluten-free blend or simply omit the dredging—the tenders will still be tasty, though a bit less crisp.

Add Extra Veggies

Boost nutrition and color by adding quick-cooking veggies like baby spinach, halved cherry tomatoes, or sliced zucchini to the pan while simmering the sauce. The veggies will soak up all that garlicky, buttery goodness.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Garlic Butter Chicken Tenders over fluffy mashed potatoes, buttery rice, or al dente pasta to soak up the sauce. For a lighter option, pair with steamed broccoli, roasted green beans, or a fresh garden salad. Garnish each plate with extra lemon wedges and a final sprinkle of parsley for a vibrant finish.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or chicken broth to loosen the sauce if needed. You can microwave individual portions for 30-60 seconds, though the chicken may not be as crisp. For longer storage, freeze tenders (without sauce) for up to 2 months—thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions About Garlic Butter Chicken Tenders (FAQ)

Q: Can I use chicken breasts or thighs instead of tenders?
A: Absolutely! Simply slice boneless, skinless breasts or thighs into strips similar in size to chicken tenders for even cooking and delicious results.

Q: Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
A: Yes! Swap in your favorite vegan butter alternative and use olive oil for cooking. The rich garlic flavor will still shine through.

Q: How do I avoid overcooking the chicken?
A: Sear over medium-high heat for just 2-3 minutes per side until golden and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Avoid overcrowding the pan, and keep an eye on them—they cook quickly!

Ready to enjoy the juiciest, most irresistible chicken tenders ever? Give this easy skillet recipe a try and let the buttery garlic aroma win over your kitchen! If you love it, please leave a comment or a star rating below—I'd love to hear how it turns out for you.