chicken tenderloin crock pot recipe
- The Best chicken tenderloin crock pot recipe
- Slow Cooker Chicken Tenderloin with Honey Garlic Glaze
- 🥘Ingredients
- 👨🍳Directions
- 🔧Equipment
- 📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
- 📝Notes
- Watch Video Of How Slow Cooker Chicken Tenderloin with Honey Garlic Glaze Works
- ❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Chicken Tenderloin with Honey Garlic Glaze
The Best chicken tenderloin crock pot recipe
Oh, honey, let me tell you why chicken tenderloin in the crock pot is my go-to recipe—it’s like magic in a slow cooker. I’ve been making it for years, and it’s the kind of dish that feels special without being fancy. The tenderloin stays juicy and flavorful all day long, and the crock pot does all the work while I’m at work or running errands. My kids—well, they’ll eat it straight out of the crock pot if I let them, which is a rare treat for this picky eater of mine. It’s not just quick; it’s also easy to customize. I’ll add a little garlic, paprika, and a splash of soy sauce for extra depth, or sometimes I’ll toss in some frozen peas and carrots for a little extra nutrition. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a little celebration every time, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering with friends.
The best part? It’s actually pretty healthy for what it is. Chicken tenderloin is lean, and the crock pot keeps it moist without needing much oil. My family loves that it’s not greasy but still packed with protein and flavor. I’ll even sneak in some turmeric or ginger for extra antioxidants if I’m feeling fancy, and it’s always a hit with the kids because they don’t even realize how good it is for them. Plus, it’s foolproof—no stress, no burning, no mess. Just sit back, let it cook, and enjoy. And honestly? It’s one of those recipes that feels like a little reward for making the effort, whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special occasion. My kids will eat it every time, and honestly, so will I.
Slow Cooker Chicken Tenderloin with Honey Garlic Glaze
Tender, juicy chicken tenderloins slow-cooked in a sweet and savory honey garlic glaze for a delicious and easy meal. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.
🥘Ingredients
- 6 boneless, skinless chicken tenderloins
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp honey
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
👨🍳Directions
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1 In a mixing bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, ketchup, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and smoked paprika to make the glaze.
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2 Place chicken tenderloins in the slow cooker. Pour the glaze mixture over the chicken, ensuring it is evenly coated.
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3 Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 4 hours, or until the chicken is tender and easily shreds.
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4 Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and let it rest for 5 minutes. Shred the chicken using two forks.
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5 Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir in the glaze mixture. Cook on HIGH for 15 minutes to thicken the sauce.
🔧Equipment
- Slow cooker
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Knife and cutting board
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Slow Cooker Chicken Tenderloin with Honey Garlic Glaze Works
This chicken tenderloin crock pot recipe is always a solid choice for any family gathering because it’s simple to prepare ahead of time while still delivering tender, flavorful meat. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or a bigger event, the hands-off cooking method makes it perfect for busy days, and the tender texture keeps everyone satisfied without fuss. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that won’t require last-minute stress, so you can focus on making sure everyone has a good time.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Chicken Tenderloin with Honey Garlic Glaze
What is the best way to prepare chicken tenderloins for crock pot cooking?
The best way to prepare chicken tenderloins for crock pot cooking is to trim off any excess fat and trim the skin if desired. Pat the tenderloins dry with paper towels to help them brown better in the crock pot. You can season them with salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, or any other spices you prefer before placing them in the crock pot.
How long should I cook chicken tenderloins in the slow cooker?
Chicken tenderloins typically take about 3 to 4 hours on LOW or 1.5 to 2.5 hours on HIGH in the crock pot to cook through safely. For best results, check them halfway through cooking if possible, or use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Can I add any additional ingredients or sauces to the crock pot with the chicken tenderloins?
Absolutely! You can add various ingredients like onions, bell peppers, carrots, celery, garlic, ginger, or even a splash of broth or sauce (like BBQ, teriyaki, or honey mustard) to enhance flavor. For extra moisture, you can include a bit of water, apple cider, or coconut milk. Just avoid overcrowding the crock pot, as this can dilute the flavor.
What if I don’t have a crock pot, can I still make this dish?
Yes! If you don’t have a crock pot, you can cook chicken tenderloins in an oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or in a stovetop pan with a bit of oil and seasonings for 10-15 minutes. For a quicker method, you can also use a rice cooker with a little water and seasonings, though texture may vary slightly.
How can I ensure the chicken tenderloins stay moist and flavorful in the slow cooker?
To keep chicken tenderloins moist and flavorful, avoid overcrowding the crock pot. Add a small amount of liquid (like broth, coconut milk, or a sauce) to prevent drying out. You can also sprinkle a little cornstarch or arrowroot powder inside the crock pot to help retain moisture. Cooking on LOW heat also helps prevent drying compared to HIGH. Finally, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to redistribute juices.
