If you’re looking for a quick, juicy, and flavorful way to prepare chicken tenderloins, cooking them in a pressure cooker is your best bet. Not only does this method save time, but it also locks in moisture and intensifies the taste. Whether you’re a busy home cook or just want a fuss-free meal, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to master chicken tenderloins in your pressure cooker.
Why Use a Pressure Cooker for Chicken Tenderloins?
Pressure cookers are fantastic for cooking chicken tenderloins because they dramatically reduce cooking time while keeping the meat tender and juicy. The high-pressure environment cooks the chicken evenly and quickly, preserving nutrients and flavors that can be lost with other cooking methods. Plus, pressure cooking is energy-efficient and perfect for weeknight dinners when you’re short on time.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
To cook delicious chicken tenderloins in your pressure cooker, gather these simple ingredients:
– 1.5 to 2 pounds of chicken tenderloins (fresh or frozen)
– 1 to 2 cups chicken broth (or water with broth concentrate)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– ½ teaspoon black pepper
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– ½ teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
– Optional: ½ cup white wine for extra flavor
Feel free to swap or add your favorite seasonings to customize the flavor.
Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking Chicken Tenderloins in a Pressure Cooker
1. Prep the Chicken
Start by rinsing the chicken tenderloins under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels. This helps the seasonings stick better and promotes browning. Trim any excess fat or tendons for a clean bite.
2. Season the Chicken
Mix salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and thyme in a bowl. Toss the chicken tenderloins in this seasoning blend until they’re evenly coated. This mix adds flavor and a lovely color once cooked.
3. Sear the Chicken (Optional but Recommended)
Turn your pressure cooker to the sauté setting and heat the olive oil. Add the seasoned chicken tenderloins and sear them for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. This step locks in juices and adds a delicious crust. If your cooker is small, sear in batches.
4. Add Liquid and Deglaze
After searing, pour in the chicken broth (and white wine if using). Scrape the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon to loosen any browned bits-these add incredible flavor to your dish.
5. Pressure Cook
Secure the lid and set your pressure cooker to high pressure. Cook the chicken tenderloins for 5 to 8 minutes depending on their size and whether they are fresh or frozen. For fresh tenderloins, 5 minutes is usually enough; frozen may need a bit longer.
6. Release Pressure
Once cooking is complete, let the pressure release naturally for about 3 to 5 minutes, then perform a quick release to let out any remaining pressure. This method prevents overcooking and keeps the chicken juicy.
Tips for Perfect Pressure Cooker Chicken Tenderloins
– Don’t skip the searing: It adds flavor and texture.
– Use a trivet or silicone sling: This keeps the chicken out of the broth, helping it stay golden and not soggy.
– Adjust seasoning to your taste: Feel free to experiment with herbs and spices like cumin, chili powder, or Italian seasoning.
– Use enough liquid: At least 1 cup is necessary for pressure cooking, but check your cooker’s manual for specifics.
– Cook from frozen: You can cook frozen tenderloins directly, but thawing first helps achieve better browning.
– Store leftovers properly: Cooked tenderloins keep well in the fridge for 3-4 days and freeze up to 3 months. Reheat gently to avoid drying out.
Serving Suggestions
Pressure cooker chicken tenderloins are incredibly versatile. Serve them with:
– Steamed vegetables and rice for a balanced meal
– Tossed in your favorite sauce like BBQ, honey mustard, or ranch for dipping
– Shredded and added to salads, wraps, or tacos
– Paired with mashed potatoes or pasta for comfort food vibes
Chicken tenderloins cooked in a pressure cooker come out tender, juicy, and packed with flavor in a fraction of the time. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to enjoy any day of the week.