If you’re looking for a way to elevate your weeknight dinner routine, look no further than Garlic Lemon Chicken Tenderloin Scampi. This dish masterfully combines simplicity with elegance, resulting in a meal that feels as if it was prepared in a fine dining restaurant, yet can be created in your home kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There’s something magical about the combination of tender chicken bathed in a rich, buttery wine sauce, infused with the zesty brightness of lemon and the subtle warmth of Italian herbs. The beauty of this recipe lies in its layers of flavor: the savory garlic, the tangy citrus, and the rich notes of parmesan meld together to create a perfectly balanced dish that will tantalize your taste buds. Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To bring this delightful dish to life, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 lb of chicken tenderloin
- 1 tablespoon of pure olive oil
- 2 tablespoons of garlic, finely chopped
- 1 1/2 cups of white wine (sweet wine works beautifully)
- Juice from 1/2 fresh lemon
- 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning
- 1/2 cup of softened butter
- 1 tablespoon of parsley, chopped
- 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350F (175C).
- Sauté the garlic: In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped garlic and sauté until tender and fragrant.
- Cook the chicken: Place the chicken tenderloins in the skillet and cook until golden on both sides, approximately 4-5 minutes per side. Be careful not to overcook as they will finish in the oven.
- Transfer to a baking dish: Remove the tenderloins from the skillet and arrange them in an oven-safe dish.
- Create the sauce: In the same skillet, add the white wine, lemon juice, and Italian seasoning. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil and then simmer for 7-10 minutes, allowing it to reduce by half.
- Incorporate the butter: Gradually add chunks of softened butter, stirring continuously to ensure it melts evenly into the sauce.
- Pour the sauce over the chicken in the baking dish.
- Add the finishing touches: Sprinkle the chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese over the chicken. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
Tips for Success
- Choosing the Wine: Opt for a wine you enjoy drinking. A sweet white wine adds a delightful contrast to the savory garlic and buttery richness, but a dry wine can work if you prefer less sweetness.
- Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh lemon juice and quality parmesan makes a noticeable difference in the dish’s flavor.
- Pairing Ideas: Serve with crusty bread to soak up the sauce or a light side of angel hair pasta tossed in olive oil and herbs.
Final Thoughts
Garlic Lemon Chicken Tenderloin Scampi isn’t just a dish—it’s an experience. The aroma alone will have your mouth watering before the first bite. This recipe effortlessly transforms simple ingredients into an indulgent meal, perfect for any occasion. Treat yourself to a touch of luxury and enjoy the warm, comforting flavors of this standout dish.
Garlic Lemon Chicken Tenderloin Scampi
Description
Transform your dinner experience with this delightful Garlic Lemon Chicken Tenderloin Scampi. Perfectly sautéed chicken tenderloins are bathed in a rich, buttery wine sauce, elevated by the tang of fresh lemon and aromatic Italian seasoning. Topped with parmesan and parsley, every bite promises a taste of luxury.
Ingredients
– 1 lb of chicken tenderloin
– 1 tablespoon of pure olive oil
– 2 tablespoons of garlic, finely chopped
– 1 1/2 cups of white wine, some prefer a sweet wine
– 1/2 fresh lemon, juice only
– 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning
– 1/2 cup of softened butter
– 1 tablespoon of parsley, chopped
– 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt to taste
– Black pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 350F (175C).
2. In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Saute the garlic until it is tender.
3. Add the chicken tenderloin and cook until they are just golden, 4-5 minutes per side. Do not overcook as they will continue cooking in the oven.
4. Remove the tenderloins from the skillet and arrange them in a baking dish.
5. Using the same skillet, add the white wine, lemon juice, and Italian seasoning. Bring the mixture to a boil and simmer for 7-10 minutes or until it reduces by half.
6. Slowly add chunks of the softened butter, stirring well to incorporate into the sauce. Once all the butter is melted, pour the sauce over the chicken in the baking dish.
7. Sprinkle the tenderloin with chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes or until the tenderloins are cooked through and the cheese is melted.
9. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.