Frozen chicken tenderloins are a versatile and convenient protein option for busy households. However, cooking them properly is crucial to ensure juicy, flavorful, and safe results. In this article, we’ll explore five different methods for cooking frozen chicken tenderloins, each catering to various cooking appliances and preferences.
1. How To Cook Frozen Chicken Tenderloins in Air Fryer
Ingredients
- Frozen chicken tenderloins
- Cooking oil spray or olive oil
- Your favorite seasonings (salt, pepper, garlic powder, etc.)
Instructions
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
Lightly coat the air fryer basket with cooking oil spray or brush it with olive oil.
Arrange the frozen chicken tenderloins in a single layer in the basket, making sure not to overcrowd them.
Season the tenderloins with your desired spices and herbs.
Cook for 15-20 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time, until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Once cooked through, remove the tenderloins from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
2. How To Cook Frozen Chicken Tenderloins in Oven
Ingredients
- Frozen chicken tenderloins
- Cooking oil spray or olive oil
- Your favorite seasonings (salt, pepper, garlic powder, etc.)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
Arrange the frozen chicken tenderloins on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they are not touching each other.
Lightly coat the tenderloins with cooking oil spray or brush them with olive oil.
Season the tenderloins with your desired spices and herbs.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time, until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Once cooked through, remove the tenderloins from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
3. How To Cook Frozen Chicken Tenderloins in Instant Pot
Ingredients
- Frozen chicken tenderloins
- Chicken broth or water
- Your favorite seasonings (salt, pepper, garlic powder, etc.)
Instructions
Place the trivet or steamer basket in the Instant Pot and pour in 1 cup of chicken broth or water.
Arrange the frozen chicken tenderloins on the trivet or in the steamer basket.
Season the tenderloins with your desired spices and herbs.
Close the Instant Pot lid and make sure the valve is set to the sealing position.
Cook on high pressure for 8-10 minutes (depending on the thickness of the tenderloins).
Once the cooking time is up, allow the pressure to release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release the remaining pressure.
Carefully open the Instant Pot and check that the tenderloins have reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Remove the tenderloins from the Instant Pot and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
4. How To Cook Frozen Chicken Tenderloins on Stove
Ingredients
- Frozen chicken tenderloins
- Cooking oil (olive oil, avocado oil, or your preferred oil)
- Your favorite seasonings (salt, pepper, garlic powder, etc.)
Instructions
Heat a large skillet or pan over medium-high heat and add enough cooking oil to lightly coat the bottom.
Once the oil is hot, carefully add the frozen chicken tenderloins to the skillet in a single layer.
Season the tenderloins with your desired spices and herbs.
Cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the tenderloins are cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Flip the tenderloins occasionally to ensure even browning and cooking.
Once cooked through, remove the tenderloins from the skillet and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
5. How To Cook Frozen Chicken Tenderloins in Crock Pot
Ingredients
- Frozen chicken tenderloins
- Chicken broth or water
- Your favorite seasonings (salt, pepper, garlic powder, etc.)
- Vegetables (optional)
Instructions
Place the frozen chicken tenderloins in the bottom of your slow cooker.
Add your desired seasonings and vegetables (if using) on top of the tenderloins.
Pour enough chicken broth or water into the slow cooker to cover the bottom, but not submerge the tenderloins.
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
Check the internal temperature of the tenderloins to ensure they have reached 165°F (74°C).
Once cooked through, carefully remove the tenderloins from the slow cooker and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
No matter which cooking method you choose, always ensure that the chicken tenderloins reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to guarantee food safety. Serve these juicy and tender chicken tenderloins with your favorite sides and sauces for a delicious and satisfying meal.
