Instant Pot Chicken Tenderloins: Your Ultimate 5-Step Weeknight Dinner

Instant Pot Chicken Tenderloins are a total game-changer for busy families, home cooks, and anyone craving a quick, juicy, and flavorful meal without the mess. From weeknight dinners to last-minute lunches, this one-pot wonder saves the day with tender, well-seasoned chicken ready in under 20 minutes. Whether you’re starting with frozen or fresh chicken, the Instant Pot transforms it into mouthwatering goodness every single time.

Now, let’s rewind the clock for a second. Our journey into the world of simple, delicious pressure cooker meals didn’t begin with fancy gourmet dishes. It began with frustration—lots of it. Imagine juggling work, family, and a growling stomach at 6 p.m., only to realize your chicken is still in the freezer. That was us. The “About Page” of our kitchen adventures started right there: chaos, crumbs, and a craving for a better way to cook.

Then we discovered the magic of Instant Pot Chicken Tenderloins.

Not only did it eliminate the defrosting drama, but it also gave us juicy, flavorful chicken that didn’t need hours of marinating or oven babysitting. That one recipe sparked an entire transformation in how we approached food—more flavor, less time, and zero stress. That’s why we’re so excited to share this with you. This isn’t just a recipe. It’s our go-to lifesaver, and once you try it, we bet it’ll become yours too.

Table of Contents

Table of Contents

Why We Love Instant Pot Chicken Tenderloins

Let’s face it: life is hectic. Between work meetings, soccer practices, and that ever-growing pile of laundry, spending hours in the kitchen just isn’t realistic. That’s where Instant Pot Chicken Tenderloins come in. They’re fast, forgiving, and nearly foolproof. Plus, they’re incredibly versatile—you can toss them into wraps, salads, rice bowls, or serve them solo with your favorite dipping sauce. The flavor possibilities are endless, and with a few simple ingredients, you’ll wonder how you ever cooked without them.

And did we mention cleanup is a breeze? No greasy pans, no endless dishes. Just one pot, one delicious outcome.

Every food blog or home cook has their “aha!” moment—the turning point when cooking goes from a chore to a genuine joy. Ours? It was the day we tossed frozen chicken tenderloins into the Instant Pot and hoped for the best. What came out wasn’t just edible—it was incredible. The chicken was tender, juicy, seasoned to perfection, and cooked all the way through in less than 15 minutes.

That moment led us to ditch the complicated recipes, skip the long cooking times, and embrace a simpler way to nourish our family. From experimenting with seasonings to trying new dipping sauces, this recipe has become the most requested meal in our house—and for good reason. It’s fast, flavorful, and always hits the spot.

But more than that, it’s a symbol of our kitchen evolution. From overwhelmed to organized. From takeout-addicted to meal-prepped and thriving. It all started with Instant Pot Chicken Tenderloins.

What Are Chicken Tenderloins?

Chicken tenderloins are one of those cuts that often go underappreciated—until you try them. Nestled beneath the chicken breast, the tenderloin is a small, thin strip of muscle that lives up to its name: it’s unbelievably tender. Unlike the breast, which can dry out if overcooked, chicken tenderloins hold moisture like a champ. They’re naturally lean, cook quickly, and take on marinades and seasonings like a sponge.

You’ve probably seen them packaged separately in grocery stores or attached underneath a whole chicken breast. Either way, they’re gold when it comes to quick-cooking, no-fuss meals—especially when made in the Instant Pot.

Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or just need a protein-packed dinner in 20 minutes, Instant Pot Chicken Tenderloins are your MVP. Plus, they’re kid-friendly, budget-friendly, and a blank canvas for every flavor profile imaginable.

Chicken Tenderloin vs Chicken Breast

So, what’s the real difference between chicken tenderloins and chicken breasts?

Let’s break it down:

Feature	Chicken Tenderloins	Chicken Breasts
Location	Underneath the breast	Main pectoral muscle
Texture	More tender, smoother grain	Denser and slightly tougher
Size	Smaller and thinner	Larger and thicker
Cooking Time	Cooks faster due to size	Takes longer to cook evenly
Flavor Absorption	Absorbs marinades quickly	Needs more time for flavor infusion
Best Uses	Quick meals, stir-fries, snacks	Grilled dishes, sliced for salads

Now, let’s be real: both cuts have their place. But when you want something that cooks fast, stays juicy, and works with any seasoning combo you throw at it, Instant Pot Chicken Tenderloins win hands down.

Benefits of Cooking Chicken Tenderloins in an Instant Pot

If you haven’t jumped on the Instant Pot bandwagon yet, now’s the time. It’s not just a kitchen trend—it’s a revolution. And when paired with chicken tenderloins, it’s practically unstoppable.

Here’s why:

• Speedy Results: Chicken tenderloins only take 5 minutes of high-pressure cooking. Add a few minutes of natural release, and dinner’s done in under 20.
• Juicy Every Time: The pressure-lock environment keeps moisture sealed in, which means your tenderloins won’t come out dry or rubbery.
• No Thawing Required: Forgot to defrost your chicken? No worries. The Instant Pot handles frozen tenderloins like a pro—just add a couple of extra minutes to the cook time.
• Less Mess, Less Stress: One pot, zero chaos. Sauté, pressure cook, and even serve—all from the same inner pot.
• Foolproof Results: Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen newbie, Instant Pot Chicken Tenderloins are hard to mess up.

Still not convinced? Just wait until you see how easy the prep is and how customizable the flavor can be. From savory garlic-herb to spicy Cajun and creamy Parmesan twists, you’ll never run out of ideas.

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Instant Pot Chicken Tenderloins Ingredients Explained

Before we jump into the step-by-step process, let’s take a look at the simple, flavor-packed ingredients that make this recipe so unforgettable. The beauty of Instant Pot Chicken Tenderloins is that they don’t need a long list of fancy ingredients to taste amazing. Just a handful of pantry staples deliver incredible flavor and juicy results.

Why These Ingredients Work Perfectly Together

Here’s what you’ll need to create the magic:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil (divided): Olive oil helps create a golden crust when sautéing the chicken and keeps the meat from sticking to the pot. It also acts as a flavor carrier for the seasonings.
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Adds a mild smoky depth and beautiful color to the chicken. You can opt for sweet or smoked paprika, depending on your flavor preference.
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: This gives the chicken a subtle savory kick and enhances the overall umami flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Because garlic makes everything better, right? It delivers bold, robust flavor without burning in the pot.
• 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt: Salt brings all the flavors together and ensures the meat is seasoned all the way through.
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds just the right amount of gentle heat and complexity to the seasoning blend.
• 1 pound chicken tenderloins (fresh or frozen): The star of the show. This lean, tender cut cooks fast and holds flavor like a dream.
• 1 cup chicken broth: A flavorful liquid that helps create steam for pressure cooking. It also adds depth to the finished dish and keeps the chicken extra moist.

This combination of spices delivers flavor that’s bold but balanced. And the best part? No marinating required. Just coat, cook, and eat.

Substitutions and Swaps You Can Try

One of the reasons we love Instant Pot Chicken Tenderloins is their flexibility. Don’t have all the exact ingredients on hand? No problem. Here are a few easy swaps:

• Olive oil: Replace with avocado oil or melted butter for a richer flavor.
• Paprika: Try smoked paprika for a deeper, earthy tone, or cayenne for a little heat.
• Onion & garlic powder: If you’re out, substitute with minced fresh garlic and shallots sautéed in the oil before adding the chicken.
• Chicken broth: No broth? Use vegetable broth, beef broth, or even water with a bouillon cube.
• Chicken tenderloins: Can’t find tenderloins? Use thin-sliced chicken breasts or chicken strips—just adjust cook time slightly.

These ingredients aren’t set in stone. Think of them as a jumping-off point for your own flavor adventure. Add Italian seasoning, chili flakes, lemon zest, or even a dash of soy sauce to mix things up.

And don’t worry—no matter how you customize it, the Instant Pot Chicken Tenderloins will always deliver on taste, tenderness, and total satisfaction.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Cook Instant Pot Chicken Tenderloins

So you’ve got your ingredients ready, your Instant Pot is sitting pretty on the counter, and your mouth is already watering. Now what? Let’s break down exactly how to make Instant Pot Chicken Tenderloins that are juicy, flavorful, and ready in a flash.

Step 1: Prepping the Chicken Tenderloins

Start by patting your chicken tenderloins dry with a paper towel. This helps the seasoning stick better and gives you a slightly crisp edge when sautéing. If your chicken is frozen, don’t worry—just skip the sauté step and jump straight to seasoning and pressure cooking. The Instant Pot handles frozen tenderloins with zero issues.

Next, lightly brush the tenderloins with 1/2 tablespoon of olive oil. This not only helps them brown during sautéing but also gives the seasonings something to cling to.

Step 2: Seasoning Tips for Maximum Flavor

In a small shallow dish or plate, mix together your seasoning blend:

• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Now, dip each chicken tenderloin into the spice mix, pressing gently to make sure all sides are coated. Don’t skip this part—it’s the key to building bold, even flavor in every bite.

Pro Tip: If you want to go the extra mile, let the seasoned chicken sit for 5–10 minutes before cooking to allow the spices to really soak in.

Step 3: The Right Way to Sauté in the Instant Pot

Hit the Sauté button on your Instant Pot and add the remaining 1/2 tablespoon of olive oil to the inner pot. Let it heat up for about a minute—hot oil is essential for creating that light golden crust on your tenderloins.

Once hot, carefully place the seasoned chicken strips into the pot using tongs. Don’t overcrowd the pot; work in batches if necessary. Sauté for 1–2 minutes per side, just until they’re lightly golden. You’re not cooking them through here—just searing for flavor.

Remove the chicken and set it aside on a clean plate.

Step 4: Pressure Cooking to Juicy Perfection

Now it’s time for the Instant Pot to work its magic. Pour 1 cup of chicken broth into the pot. This will help build pressure and keep your chicken juicy.

Insert the metal trivet (or steam rack) into the pot and place the tenderloins on top. Arrange them in a single layer as much as possible, stacking only slightly if needed.

Cancel the sauté function and hit Manual or Pressure Cook (depending on your model). Set it to High Pressure for 5 minutes.

Yes, just 5 minutes! That’s the beauty of chicken tenderloins—they’re thin, tender, and quick to cook.

Step 5: Natural Release vs Quick Release – What You Should Know

When the cooking time is done, allow the Instant Pot to sit undisturbed for 3 minutes—this is called natural pressure release. After that, carefully switch the valve to quick release to let out the remaining steam.

Once the pin drops and it’s safe to open the lid, use tongs to remove the chicken. It should be steaming, juicy, and fully cooked.

Safety Tip: Always check internal temperature! Chicken is safe to eat at 165°F (74°C).

If you’re loving how easy this recipe is, don’t miss our Tasty Copycat Popeye’s Blackened Chicken Tenders Recipe

Serving Suggestions

Now the best part—dig in! Serve your Instant Pot Chicken Tenderloins warm with dipping sauces like:

• Classic ranch
• Smoky BBQ
• Creamy honey mustard

They’re also great over salads, inside wraps, or with a side of garlic mashed potatoes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cooking Chicken Tenderloins in the Instant Pot

Even though Instant Pot Chicken Tenderloins are a pretty forgiving recipe, a few small missteps can affect the texture or taste. Let’s go over some common mistakes that are easy to avoid.

Overcooking or Undercooking

One of the biggest issues people face with chicken is texture. Overcooked tenderloins turn rubbery and dry, while undercooked ones are unsafe and unpleasant. The trick with tenderloins is to pressure cook them just enough—5 minutes on high pressure with a 3-minute natural release hits the sweet spot. And don’t forget to check the internal temperature (165°F is the goal).

Using Too Little or Too Much Liquid

Liquid is necessary for the Instant Pot to produce steam and build pressure. Using too little liquid means your pot might give you the dreaded “burn” warning. On the flip side, too much broth can dilute flavor and turn your chicken soggy. 1 cup of chicken broth is the magic number—it keeps your chicken juicy without overdoing it.

Not Deglazing the Pot

After sautéing the chicken, make sure to scrape up any browned bits before pressure cooking. Those bits aren’t just flavor bombs—they can trigger the burn notice if left stuck to the bottom. A quick stir with the broth before closing the lid solves the problem.

Skipping the Seasoning Step

It might be tempting to toss in plain chicken and sauce it later, but trust us: pre-seasoning makes all the difference. The simple spice mix sticks to the chicken and seeps into every bite during pressure cooking. Bland chicken is usually the result of skipping this essential step.

These chicken tenderloins are perfect for prepping ahead! For more make-ahead ideas, check out our Cowboy Butter Chicken Tenders

Flavor Variations for Instant Pot Chicken Tenderloins

Bored of the same old seasoning? You’re in luck—Instant Pot Chicken Tenderloins are a blank canvas. Here are some of our favorite ways to spice things up and keep dinner exciting.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenderloins

Upgrade your seasoning mix by adding:

• 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• A pinch of crushed red pepper (optional)

Finish with a drizzle of garlic butter before serving. This variation is a hit with kids and adults alike—creamy, cheesy, and garlicky heaven.

Lemon Herb Chicken Tenderloins

Swap paprika for dried oregano and thyme, and add:

• Zest of 1 lemon
• Juice of 1/2 lemon into the chicken broth

This gives the dish a light, citrusy twist that’s perfect for pairing with rice or a fresh green salad.

Spicy Cajun Chicken Tenderloins

Kick up the heat by adding:

• 1/2 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper

Want it hotter? Sprinkle some hot sauce in the broth or drizzle it on top after cooking.

Best Sauces and Side Dishes to Pair With Chicken Tenderloins

Your Instant Pot Chicken Tenderloins are delicious straight from the pot, but let’s not stop there. Add a sauce and a side dish, and now you’ve got a complete meal.

Dipping Sauces That Take It Over the Top

• Ranch Dressing: Cool, creamy, and classic. Great with spicy variations.
• BBQ Sauce: Smoky sweetness balances the savory spices beautifully.
• Honey Mustard: Sweet and tangy—a match made in flavor heaven.
• Buffalo Sauce: Craving heat? A drizzle of buffalo sauce brings fiery flavor.
• Garlic Aioli: Fancy things up with this rich, garlicky dipping delight.

Easy Side Ideas to Complete the Plate

• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and comforting, a great contrast to the tender chicken.
• Steamed Broccoli or Green Beans: Keeps things healthy without sacrificing flavor.
• White or Brown Rice: A neutral base that soaks up all the savory juices.
• Roasted Veggies: Carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini work beautifully.
• Mac & Cheese: Because sometimes, you just need a little indulgence.

These combos turn your Instant Pot Chicken Tenderloins into a balanced, hearty dinner that feels like it took hours—but really took minutes.

Meal Prep with Instant Pot Chicken Tenderloins

Meal prepping doesn’t have to mean boring leftovers—and Instant Pot Chicken Tenderloins prove it. With just a pound or two of chicken and a few seasonings, you can set yourself up for delicious, protein-packed meals all week long.

Weekly Lunch Ideas

Once the chicken is cooked and cooled, slice it up and get creative:

• Wraps & Sandwiches: Tuck into a tortilla with lettuce, cheese, and your favorite sauce.
• Grain Bowls: Combine with quinoa, roasted veggies, and a tangy vinaigrette.
• Power Salads: Toss sliced tenderloins over greens with nuts, cranberries, and goat cheese.
• Taco Fillings: Shred the chicken and spice it up with taco seasoning for quick tacos.

You can easily double the batch in a 6 or 8-quart Instant Pot if you’re prepping for the whole family.

Bento Box Combinations

Make lunch exciting by mixing textures and flavors:

• Chicken tenderloins with hummus, carrot sticks, grapes, and pita
• Teriyaki-style chicken with rice balls, cucumber salad, and edamame
• Spicy Cajun tenderloins with corn, black beans, salsa, and tortilla chips

Just store each element in its own compartment and keep it chilled until lunchtime.

Want to skip the store-bought bottles? Try this Instant Pot Creamy Chicken Tortilla

Why This Instant Pot Chicken Tenderloins Recipe Is Great for Families

Between busy weeknights and picky eaters, finding a recipe that checks all the boxes can feel impossible. That’s where Instant Pot Chicken Tenderloins shine.

Quick, Easy, and Nutritious for Kids

Parents love it because it’s:

• Fast: Ready in under 20 minutes, even from frozen
• Simple: Made with pantry staples you probably already have
• Healthy: Lean protein, low carb, and low sugar

And let’s be real—kids love it too. The mild flavors and dipping sauce options make it feel like a fun treat instead of a typical “chicken dinner.”

Great for Busy Weeknights

Whether you’re juggling Zoom calls, soccer practice, or homework, this recipe has your back. Just toss it in the Instant Pot and let it do the work. No flipping. No watching the oven. No greasy stovetop to clean.

Health Benefits of Chicken Tenderloins

Let’s talk nutrition. Not only are Instant Pot Chicken Tenderloins delicious and convenient, but they also pack a serious health punch.

High in Protein and Low in Fat

Chicken tenderloins are a lean source of high-quality protein, which supports muscle health, satiety, and energy levels. With very little fat and virtually no carbs, they fit into almost any eating plan—from low-carb to paleo to keto.

Great for Low-Carb and Keto Diets

With only basic seasonings and a touch of olive oil, this recipe has zero added sugars or starches, making it a clean, low-carb protein option. Pair with cauliflower rice or leafy greens for a full keto-friendly meal.

Conclusion

If there’s one recipe you can rely on time and time again, it’s Instant Pot Chicken Tenderloins. Whether you’re cooking for one, feeding a busy family, or planning your weekly meal prep, this recipe is the perfect mix of convenience, nutrition, and flavor. With just a handful of pantry ingredients and a few simple steps, you can create tender, juicy chicken that’s ready in minutes—not hours.

What sets Instant Pot Chicken Tenderloins apart is how easily they adapt to your life. Forgot to thaw the chicken? No problem. Need a healthy meal in under 30 minutes? Done. Craving something flavorful but low in fat? This recipe delivers. And with endless seasoning options, side dish pairings, and meal-prep versatility, it never gets boring.

From the first time we tossed frozen chicken into the pot and hoped for the best to now sharing our favorite tried-and-true tips, Instant Pot Chicken Tenderloins have truly transformed how we cook. We’re confident they’ll do the same for you.

So the next time you need a fast, delicious, and foolproof chicken dinner, don’t stress—just grab your Instant Pot, your favorite spices, and those tenderloins. Let the pressure cooker do the work while you enjoy the compliments.

Delicious. Effortless. Unstoppably good.

Instant Pot Chicken Tenderloins—once you try them, there’s no going back.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Instant Pot Chicken Tenderloins

Instant Pot Chicken Tenderloins RECIPE