Have you ever had one of those days when you’re juggling a million things and the thought of cooking dinner makes you want to order takeout? I’ve been there more times than I can count. As a busy parent with two energetic kids and deadlines to meet, I used to dread the 5 PM “what’s for dinner?” question.
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That all changed when I discovered the magic of cooking chicken tenderloins in a crock pot. It was a random Tuesday when I first tossed some chicken tenderloins, a few pantry staples, and seasonings into my slow cooker before heading out for the day. Walking through the door hours later to the mouthwatering aroma of perfectly cooked chicken was nothing short of life-changing!
What makes chicken tenderloin crock pot recipes so special is their incredible versatility and foolproof nature. Unlike chicken breasts that can dry out easily, tenderloins stay incredibly juicy in the slow cooker. Plus, they’re naturally more tender (hence the name!) and absorb flavors beautifully during the low and slow cooking process.
After experimenting with countless variations over the years, I’m excited to share my all-time favorite chicken tenderloin crock pot recipe – one that’s been perfected through many family dinners and has even impressed my mother-in-law (and trust me, that’s saying something!).
If you enjoyed this Recipe, you might also love my other cozy comfort food recipes:
- Crockpot Chicken and Gravy
- Crock Pot Chicken Parmesan
- Spaghetti Crock Pot Chicken
- Crock Pot Chicken Gnocchi Soup
- Crock Pot Beef and Noodles
- Chicken and Noodles Crock Pot
- Crock Pot Pizza
- Crock Pot Chicken Enchiladas
- Mississippi Chicken Crock Pot
Why Chicken Tenderloin Crock Pot Recipes Are a Must-Try
- Foolproof Cooking: Even if you’re new to cooking, it’s almost impossible to mess up chicken in a slow cooker.
- Extra Tender Results: Chicken tenderloins are naturally more tender than breasts, and slow cooking makes them melt-in-your-mouth soft.
- Busy Day Lifesaver: Just 10 minutes of morning prep for a delicious ready-to-eat dinner.
- Budget-Friendly: Tenderloins often go on sale and can be stretched further with simple ingredients.
- Incredibly Versatile: The cooked chicken works in tacos, salads, sandwiches, pasta—almost anything!
- Kid-Approved: Even picky eaters love the mild, juicy chicken tenderloins.
- Minimal Clean-Up: One pot cooking means fewer dishes to wash.
- Meal Prep Champion: Make a big batch and repurpose throughout the week.
- No Babysitting Required: Unlike stovetop cooking, no need to constantly check or stir.
Ingredients Breakdown & Substitutions
| Ingredient | Why It’s Important | Substitutions |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken Tenderloins | The star of the show; naturally tender cuts | Chicken breast cut into strips (cooking time may vary) |
| Chicken Broth | Creates steam and adds flavor without added fat | Vegetable broth, water with bouillon, or even white wine |
| Garlic | Provides aromatic depth | Garlic powder (1 tsp per 2 fresh cloves) |
| Italian Seasoning | Creates a versatile flavor profile | Make your own with oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary |
| Butter | Adds richness and helps create sauce | Olive oil or ghee for dairy sensitivities |
| Salt & Pepper | Enhances all the flavors | Season according to dietary preferences; can reduce sodium with herbs |
| Cornstarch (optional) | Thickens sauce if desired | Arrowroot powder or flour slurry |
| Fresh Herbs | Brightens flavor and appearance | Dried herbs (use 1/3 the amount of fresh) |
After years of tweaking this recipe, I’ve found that adding a splash of lemon juice at the end brightens everything up. That’s something I learned from my grandmother – she always said acidity was the secret ingredient most home cooks forget!
Step-by-Step Instructions with Expert Tips
Prepare Your Crock Pot: Lightly spray the inside of your slow cooker with non-stick spray. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. Pro tip: Line with parchment for even easier cleanup on busy days.
Season the Chicken: Place 1.5-2 pounds of chicken tenderloins in a bowl. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon olive oil, then sprinkle with 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, and 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning. Toss gently to coat evenly. If you have time, letting the seasoned chicken sit for 15 minutes allows flavors to penetrate deeper.
Layer the Aromatics: Place 2 tablespoons butter (cut into small pieces) at the bottom of the slow cooker. Add 3 minced garlic cloves and half a diced onion. Adding aromatics under the chicken creates a flavorful base that infuses throughout cooking.
Add Chicken and Liquid: Arrange seasoned chicken tenderloins over the aromatics. Avoid overcrowding by keeping them in a single layer if possible. Pour 1/2 cup chicken broth around the sides—not directly over the chicken to preserve the seasonings. When I’m making a tomato-based version, I substitute half the broth with diced tomatoes.
Set Cooking Time: Cover and cook on LOW for 3-4 hours or HIGH for 1.5-2 hours. The key is to NOT overcook. Chicken tenderloins cook faster than larger cuts, so check at the minimum time. I learned the hard way that tenderloins can go from perfect to dry if cooked too long—use a meat thermometer to check for 165°F.
Optional Sauce Thickening: If you’d like a thicker sauce, mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons cold water. During the last 30 minutes, stir this mixture into the liquid, then continue cooking. For a creamy version, you can stir in 1/4 cup of cream cheese or heavy cream instead.
Finishing Touches: Just before serving, add 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice and a handful of chopped fresh herbs (parsley, basil, or cilantro depending on your flavor profile). Gently stir to combine. This final fresh addition really makes the flavors pop—a trick I picked up from a chef friend.
Rest Before Serving: Allow the chicken to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute. I often turn the slow cooker to “warm” setting during this time.
The first time I made this for my family, my 7-year-old who typically refuses anything but chicken nuggets asked for seconds! Now that’s what I call a cooking victory.
Storage, Make-Ahead & Freezing Tips
Having cooked chicken tenderloins ready to go has saved me countless times during hectic weeks. Here’s how I manage leftovers:
Refrigerator Storage: Allow chicken to cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. It will stay juicy for up to 4 days. I like to store some of the cooking liquid with the chicken to keep it moist.
Freezer Instructions: For meal prep, portion cooled chicken into freezer-safe containers or bags. Label with the date and contents (I learned this after the “mystery meat” incident of 2019!). Freeze for up to 3 months. Freezing in the cooking liquid helps prevent freezer burn.
Reheating Methods:
- Microwave: 1-2 minutes with a splash of water and covered with a damp paper towel
- Stovetop: In a covered skillet with a tablespoon of liquid over low heat until warmed through
- Oven: 300°F for 10-15 minutes in a covered dish with a splash of liquid
Leftover Reinvention:
- Shred and toss with BBQ sauce for quick sandwiches
- Dice and add to salads for an instant protein boost
- Mix into pasta with a jarred sauce for a 5-minute dinner
- Stuff into tacos or burritos with your favorite toppings
Last month when we had unexpected guests, I quickly transformed leftover chicken tenderloins into an impressive chicken Alfredo that had everyone thinking I’d been cooking all day!
Creative Variations & Serving Ideas
One of the best things about chicken tenderloin crock pot recipes is their incredible adaptability. Here are some of my family’s favorites:
Honey Garlic Chicken Tenderloins: Add 1/3 cup honey, 1/4 cup soy sauce, and double the garlic. Serve over rice with steamed broccoli.
Italian Herb & Tomato: Add a can of diced tomatoes and double the Italian seasoning. Serve over pasta or with crusty bread.
Salsa Chicken: Replace the broth with 1.5 cups of your favorite salsa. Shred the cooked chicken for instant taco filling.
Lemon Herb: Add the zest of 1 lemon along with 1/4 cup lemon juice and extra herbs. Perfect with roasted potatoes.
Teriyaki: Mix 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce with the broth. Add pineapple chunks during the last hour of cooking.
Buffalo Style: After cooking, toss with buffalo sauce and serve with ranch or blue cheese dressing, celery, and carrots.
Serving Suggestions:
- Over mashed potatoes with the cooking liquid as gravy
- With a simple side salad and dinner rolls
- Alongside roasted vegetables for a complete, healthy meal
- In slider buns with coleslaw for game day snacking
- Over cauliflower rice for a low-carb option
When my daughter started eating more vegetables, I discovered that serving them alongside these flavorful chicken tenderloins made them much more appealing – the sauce bridges the gap beautifully!
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 210 |
| Protein | 32g |
| Carbohydrates | 3g |
| Fat | 8g (2.5g saturated) |
| Fiber | 0g |
| Sugar | 1g |
| Sodium | 480mg |
| Potassium | 415mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 15% DV |
| Vitamin B12 | 10% DV |
Nutrition values are approximate and calculated using the basic recipe without variations. Values may change depending on specific ingredients used and serving sizes. Calculated using the USDA Food Database.
This chicken tenderloin crock pot recipe fits perfectly into balanced meal plans, providing lean protein with minimal added fats. It’s naturally low in carbohydrates, making it friendly for those watching their carb intake. For those on sodium-restricted diets, you can easily reduce the salt and use low-sodium broth.
Expert Tips for Perfect Chicken Tenderloin Crock Pot Recipes
After years of slow cooking chicken tenderloins, I’ve collected some game-changing tips that make all the difference:
Don’t Skip Browning the Aromatics: If you have an extra 5 minutes, quickly sauté the garlic and onions in a pan before adding to the slow cooker. This one step dramatically deepens the flavor profile. I discovered this trick when I was in a hurry once and skipped it – the difference was noticeable!
Watch the Cooking Time: Chicken tenderloins cook much faster than other cuts. The first time I made this, I set it for 6 hours like I would with chicken breasts, and came home to something resembling chicken jerky! 3-4 hours on low is perfect.
Make Use of the “Keep Warm” Function: If your timing isn’t perfect (whose is?), switch to the “keep warm” setting rather than continuing to cook. This prevents overcooking while keeping everything ready to serve.
Layer Ingredients Strategically: Place aromatics and harder vegetables at the bottom, meat in the middle, and delicate items on top. This distributes heat properly and prevents mushiness.
Save Some Raw Herbs for Finishing: Adding a final sprinkle of fresh herbs just before serving makes a world of difference in flavor and appearance. This was a trick I picked up from a chef friend that elevated my slow-cooked meals.
Perfect Pairing with Acid: A splash of vinegar, lemon juice, or even pickle juice at the end cuts through the richness and brightens all the flavors. Trust me, it’s transformative!
Don’t Lift the Lid: Every time you peek, you add 15-20 minutes to the cooking time as heat escapes. Resist the temptation!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I put frozen chicken tenderloins in the crock pot?
For food safety reasons, I don’t recommend using frozen chicken in a slow cooker. The meat stays in the “danger zone” temperature too long. However, if you’re in a pinch, make sure to cook on HIGH for the first hour, then reduce to LOW, and add at least 2 hours to your total cooking time. Always verify the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
How do I know when chicken tenderloins are done in the crock pot?
Chicken tenderloins are done when they reach 165°F on an instant-read thermometer. Visually, they’ll be white throughout with clear juices. They’ll also be tender enough to easily shred with two forks if desired.
Why are my crock pot chicken tenderloins dry?
Overcooking is the most common culprit! Chicken tenderloins cook faster than you might expect. Other causes include using too little liquid or cooking on HIGH for too long. Remember, every time you lift the lid, you’re adding cooking time.
Can I add vegetables to cook with the chicken tenderloins?
Absolutely! Hardier vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and onions can go in at the beginning. Add quicker-cooking vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms during the last 30-60 minutes to prevent them from becoming mushy.
How much chicken can I cook in my crock pot?
As a general rule, your slow cooker should be 1/2 to 3/4 full for optimal cooking. For most standard 6-quart slow cookers, this means 2-3 pounds of chicken tenderloins works perfectly.
Can I use chicken breast instead of tenderloins?
Yes, but chicken breasts are larger and will take longer to cook. Cut them into tenderloin-sized strips or expect to add 1-2 hours to the cooking time. They’re also naturally less tender, so the final texture might be slightly different.
Let’s Get Cooking!
I hope this chicken tenderloin crock pot recipe becomes a staple in your home like it has in mine. There’s something incredibly satisfying about walking through the door after a long day to find dinner practically ready to serve. The ease of preparation combined with the consistently delicious results makes this recipe one I turn to again and again.
My family now has a tradition of “Crock Pot Wednesdays” where we try different variations of this recipe. It’s become something we all look forward to, and even my teenagers have started suggesting new flavor combinations to try!
Have you tried cooking chicken tenderloins in your slow cooker before? What’s your favorite seasoning combination? I’d love to hear your experiences and variations in the comments below. And if you try this recipe, be sure to let me know how it turned out and don’t forget to follow me on Pinterest @tidbitrecipe for more kitchen shortcuts and family-friendly recipes that make real life more delicious.
Looking for more easy weeknight meals? Check out my “15-Minute Pasta Dinners” or “Sheet Pan Chicken Recipes” for more simple cooking inspiration!
Slow Cooker Chicken Tenderloins
Equipment
- Slow Cooker
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5-2 pounds chicken tenderloins
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 0.5 onion diced
- 0.5 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice added at end
- Fresh herbs for garnish
Instructions
- Season chicken tenderloins with olive oil, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Place butter, garlic, and onions at the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Arrange chicken on top in a single layer.
- Pour chicken broth around the edges.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 3-4 hours or HIGH for 1.5-2 hours.
- Optional: Thicken sauce with cornstarch slurry in the last 30 minutes.
- Finish with lemon juice and fresh herbs before serving.
- Let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.