Cast Iron Chicken Tenders
The ultimate comfort food, Cast Iron Chicken Tenders are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, making them the perfect weeknight dinner. With simple spices and a few easy steps, you'll have a meal everyone loves. Try them tonight!
Equipment
- Skillet
- Frying Pan
- Mixing Bowl
Ingredients
- 2 pounds Chicken Tenderloins (about 12)
- 1.5 tbsp Butter
- 1 tsp Garlic Powder
- 1 tsp Onion Powder
- 1 tsp Paprika
- 1 tsp Italian Seasoning
- 1 tsp Old Bay Seasoning
- 1/2 tsp Salt
- 1/4 tsp Cayenne Pepper (optional)
Instructions
- Combine the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and cayenne pepper (optional) in a bowl and mix.
- Lay the chicken tenderloins flat and sprinkle the seasoning on the first side, lightly pat them in, and then sprinkle the remaining seasoning on the back side and pat in. This can sit in the refrigerator for up to an hour.
- Heat a large cast iron skillet over high heat for 2-3 minutes, then reduce to medium high and add the butter.
- Once the butter is melted and starting to brown, but not smoke, put the chicken flat in the skillet. Do not crowd the skillet. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Let the chicken cook for 2-3 minutes on the first side without moving or checking it, then flip and cook 2 minutes on the other side.
- Reduce heat to low, cover the pan and continue to cook until the chicken reaches an internal temp of 165˚F (about 1-2 more minutes).
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and serve warm with fresh parsley or freshly squeezed lemon if desired.
Notes
- For a milder option: Omit the cayenne and lightly season with black pepper to create a kid-friendly version.