crock pot chicken tenderloin recipe

The Best crock pot chicken tenderloin recipe

I’ve been making this Crock Pot Chicken Tenderloin recipe for years, and honestly, it’s one of those simple dishes that feels like a lifesaver—especially when I’m short on time but still want something hearty and delicious for the whole family. There’s something so satisfying about pulling a perfectly cooked, juicy chicken tenderloin from the slow cooker, especially when it’s seasoned just right with garlic, herbs, and a touch of lemon. My kids love it because it’s easy to eat, and the tender texture means they don’t have to worry about biting into tough meat. It’s not just a meal; it’s a way to make dinner feel special without the fuss of a complicated recipe.

This recipe works wonders for both casual weeknight dinners and when we’re hosting a little get-together. The slow cooker does all the work, so I can prep it in the morning or even the night before, and by dinner, it’s ready to serve with minimal effort. My husband and kids swear by it because it’s flavorful but still healthy—lean protein without all the extra fat, and the herbs keep it fresh and tasty. Plus, it’s great for meal prep; I can slice it up and store portions in the fridge for quick lunches or even freeze extras for later. It’s that kind of recipe that makes me feel like I’m doing something good for my family without overcomplicating things.

Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken Tenderloins

4.8 from 1573 votes

Tender, flavorful chicken tenderloins cooked in a sweet and savory honey garlic sauce in the slow cooker for a hands-off meal. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.

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Prep Time15 mins

Cook Time3 hours (low) / 1.5 hours (high)

Resting Time0 mins

Total Time1 hour 45 mins

Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 320 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 6 boneless, skinless chicken tenderloins
• 1 tbsp olive oil

For the Sauce

• 3 tbsp honey
• 3 tbsp soy sauce
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ½ cup chicken broth

👨‍🍳Directions

1. 1 In a bowl, combine honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, apple cider vinegar, thyme, smoked paprika, and chicken broth. Mix well.
2. 2 Place chicken tenderloins in the slow cooker. Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken, ensuring it is evenly coated.
3. 3 Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 3 hours or on high for 1.5 hours, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

🔧Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring spoons
• Knife and cutting board

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 320 kcal🧈Total Fat: 8.5💛Saturated Fat: 1.5❤️Cholesterol: 95🧂Sodium: 850🌾Total Carbs: 20🥦Dietary Fiber: 1🍬Sugars: 12🥩Protein: 45

📝Notes

For extra flavor, add a splash of ginger or a pinch of red pepper flakes.,Serve with steamed vegetables or a side salad.,Substitute chicken broth with water if preferred.

This Crock Pot Chicken Tenderloin recipe is always a reliable choice for family gatherings because it’s simple to prepare ahead of time while keeping the meal hands-off and stress-free. The tender, juicy chicken stays perfectly cooked, making it ideal for feeding a crowd without the fuss of last-minute grilling or baking. Plus, it’s a great way to serve a balanced meal that everyone can enjoy, whether it’s for a casual weeknight dinner or a more formal gathering—no last-minute scrambles required.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken Tenderloins

1. What is the best type of chicken tenderloin to use for this crock pot recipe? The best choice is boneless, skinless chicken tenderloins. They cook evenly and are tender when done. If you prefer larger cuts, you can use chicken breasts cut into strips, but tenderloins are ideal for this recipe due to their uniform size and tenderness.

2. How long should I cook the chicken tenderloins in the crock pot for the best results? For a slow-cooked, fall-apart tender result, cook on Low for 6-7 hours or High for 3-4 hours. If you’re using a smaller batch, check for doneness at 350°F (175°C)—the chicken should be fully cooked through with no pink inside.

3. Can I add any seasonings or marinades to the chicken before putting it in the crock pot? Absolutely! A simple marinade of olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, paprika, and a splash of lemon juice works well. Alternatively, you can season the chicken directly with herbs like thyme, rosemary, or Italian seasoning for extra flavor. Avoid overcrowding the pot to ensure even cooking.

4. What can I serve with crock pot chicken tenderloins for a complete meal? The tenderloins pair perfectly with sides like mashed potatoes, roasted sweet potatoes, garlic bread, or a fresh salad. For a heartier meal, consider serving them with couscous, quinoa, or crusty bread. You can also drizzle the cooking liquid over the chicken for extra flavor.

5. Is it safe to leave the crock pot chicken tenderloins unattended for the entire cooking time? Yes, as long as the crock pot is set to Low or High and the lid is on securely, it’s safe to leave it unattended. However, if you’re concerned about temperature control, monitor it every few hours to ensure it stays within the proper cooking range (165°F/74°C for fully cooked chicken).