chicken tenderloin casserole recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best chicken tenderloin casserole recipe

I’m so excited to share this chicken tenderloin casserole recipe with you all. It’s one of my family’s favorite dishes, and I make it often for special occasions and everyday meals. The story behind this recipe is that it’s a variation of a classic Southern dish that’s been passed down through generations.

It’s hearty, comforting, and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. The tenderloins of chicken are sliced into thin strips, making them easy to cook and absorb all the flavors of the dish. I love how the casserole comes out golden brown on top and moist throughout.

It’s a perfect example of how home cooking can be both nourishing and delicious. My kids always ask for seconds, and I’m happy to oblige because it means they’re getting some quality protein and vegetables in their diet. The best part is that it’s incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few ingredients and about 30 minutes of prep time.

My family loves this dish so much that we’ve even served it at our annual holiday gatherings. It’s become a staple in our household, and I’m sure it will become one in yours too once you try it. The secret to this casserole’s success lies in its ability to balance flavors and textures without being too heavy or rich.

This is thanks to the combination of chicken, vegetables, and cheese, which work together in harmony to create a truly satisfying meal.

Creamy Chicken Tenderloin Casserole

4.8 from 544 votes

A comforting casserole featuring tender chicken tenderloins in a creamy sauce, topped with a crispy breadcrumb topping. This dish is perfect for a family dinner and can be easily customized with your favorite vegetables.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time40 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time1 hr
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 450 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Chicken

1 lb boneless skinless chicken tenderloins
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tsp paprika

For the Sauce

2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp flour
2 cups milk
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder

For the Topping

1 cup breadcrumbs
2 tbsp melted butter
1 tsp dried parsley

For the Vegetables

1 cup sliced mushrooms
1 cup sliced bell peppers
1/2 cup chopped onion

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat your oven to 375°F.
2Season chicken tenderloins with salt, black pepper, and paprika.
Set aside.
3In a saute pan over medium heat, melt 2 tbsp of butter.
4Add onion, mushrooms, and bell peppers.
5Saute until the onions are translucent and the vegetables are softened.
6Remove from heat and set aside.
7In a mixing bowl, combine flour and milk until smooth.
8Add chicken broth, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and onion powder.
9Stir well until the mixture is well combined and smooth.
10In a 9×13 inch baking dish, place the seasoned chicken tenderloins.
11Pour the vegetable mixture over the chicken.
12Pour the sauce mixture over the vegetables and chicken.
13Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
14In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs, 2 tbsp of melted butter, and dried parsley.
15Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the cheese.
16Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the top is golden brown and crispy.
17Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
18Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
19This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the chicken.

🔧Equipment

9×13 inch baking dish
Mixing bowl
Saute pan
Oven

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 450 kcal🧈Total Fat: 22g💛Saturated Fat: 12g❤️Cholesterol: 105mg🧂Sodium: 1000mg🌾Total Carbs: 25g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 4g🥩Protein: 35g

📝Notes

Tips: You can add your favorite vegetables to the casserole. You can substitute whole wheat breadcrumbs for a healthier option.

This chicken tenderloin casserole is a versatile and delicious dish that can be served on any occasion. It’s perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or a cozy dinner at home. I often make a large batch and freeze individual portions for quick and easy meals throughout the week.

Most importantly, it is a hit with my family and friends. It is a dish that brings everyone together. Reheating leftovers is simple.

Just pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You can also add a fresh layer of cheese on top for a delicious cheesy crust. This is a great way to enjoy the leftovers.

Additionally, this casserole can be easily customized to suit different dietary needs. You can make it gluten-free, add more vegetables, or use leaner cuts of chicken. The possibilities are endless and you can always add your own twist to this recipe.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Chicken Tenderloin Casserole

Q: What is the origin of chicken tenderloin casserole?

This dish has its roots in traditional Southern cuisine, where cooks would often use thinly sliced chicken breasts to create a hearty and comforting meal.

Q: Can I use frozen chicken tenderloins instead of fresh?

Yes, you can definitely use frozen chicken tenderloins if you prefer them.

Q: How do I ensure that my casserole is not too dry?

To avoid dryness, make sure to not overcook the chicken or the vegetables.

Q: Can I serve this dish at room temperature or must it be served hot?

This dish is best served hot, but if you need to serve it at room temperature for some reason, just make sure to let it cool completely before refrigerating it.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can assemble the casserole up until the point where you add the cheese on top.

Q: Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

No, this recipe contains chicken as its main protein source.

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