Chicken Tenders with Balsamic-Fig Sauce

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Are you tired of the same old chicken dishes? Looking for a way to jazz up your weeknight dinner routine?

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Chicken Tenders with Balsamic-Fig Sauce
Prep
15 min
Cook
20 min
Total
35 min
Servings
4

Method

  1. Season the chicken with salt and pepper on both sides and lightly coat it with flour, removing any excess.

  2. In a large nonstick skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat.

  3. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5 to 6 minutes, flipping it halfway through, until the tenders are golden brown, no longer pink in the centers, and the juices run clear.

  4. Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and loosely cover it with aluminum foil to keep it warm.

  5. In the same skillet, add the shallot and garlic, and cook until softened for about 2 minutes.

  6. Pour in the red wine and balsamic vinegar, and let it simmer until the liquid is reduced by half, which should take around 3 to 5 minutes.

  7. Stir in the figs, thyme, Dijon mustard, honey, and salt, and bring the mixture to a boil.

  8. Reduce the heat to low or medium-low, and let the mixture simmer until it thickens, which will take approximately 3 minutes.

  9. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the butter.

  10. Spoon the sauce over the warm chicken tenders or add the chicken back into the skillet briefly to reheat, and serve immediately.

  11. If desired, you can use skinless, boneless chicken breasts or chicken thighs, adjusting the cooking time accordingly.

  12. If the sauce thickens too much

About this recipe

Chicken Tenders with Balsamic-Fig Sauce: A Sweet and Savory Delight

Are you tired of the same old chicken dishes? Looking for a way to jazz up your weeknight dinner routine? Look no further than chicken tenders with balsamic-fig sauce. This delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors will have your taste buds singing with joy.

Why Chicken Tenders?

Chicken tenders are the unsung heroes of the poultry world. They are tender, juicy, and oh-so-versatile. Whether you choose to bake them, grill them, or fry them, chicken tenders are a blank canvas waiting to be transformed into a delicious masterpiece.

Chicken Tenders: The Perfect Vehicle for Flavor

One of the reasons chicken tenders are so popular is their ability to soak up flavors like a sponge. They are like little flavor bombs, ready to explode in your mouth with each bite. This makes them the perfect choice for pairing with a bold and tangy balsamic-fig sauce.

Balsamic-Fig Sauce: A Symphony of Flavors

Imagine the rich, syrupy sweetness of balsamic vinegar mingling with the luscious, jammy goodness of figs. Add a touch of garlic and a sprinkle of fresh herbs, and you have a sauce that is both sophisticated and comforting.

How to Make Chicken Tenders with Balsamic-Fig Sauce

Making chicken tenders with balsamic-fig sauce is surprisingly easy. Start by marinating the chicken tenders in a mixture of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Let them soak up the flavors for at least 30 minutes, or overnight if you have the time.

While the chicken is marinating, prepare the balsamic-fig sauce. In a saucepan, combine balsamic vinegar, chopped figs, garlic, and a sprinkle of fresh thyme. Simmer the mixture over low heat until the figs are soft and the sauce has thickened slightly.

Next, cook the chicken tenders. You can either grill them, bake them in the oven, or fry them in a skillet. Whichever method you choose, make sure to cook them until they are golden brown and cooked through.

Once the chicken tenders are cooked, it's time to assemble your dish. Drizzle the balsamic-fig sauce over the chicken tenders, and garnish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs. Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a simple green salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Conclusion

Chicken tenders with balsamic-fig sauce are a winning combination. The tender chicken paired with the sweet and tangy sauce is a match made in culinary heaven. So why not shake up your dinner routine and give this dish a try? Your taste buds will thank you.

Frequently asked questions

. Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken tenders?

Absolutely! While chicken tenders are the traditional choice for this dish, you can easily substitute chicken breasts. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

. Can I make the balsamic-fig sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Simply reheat it gently before serving.

. Can I use dried figs instead of fresh figs?

Yes, you can use dried figs if fresh figs are not available. Just soak the dried figs in warm water for a few minutes to soften them before using.

. Can I freeze the chicken tenders?

Yes, you can freeze the raw chicken tenders for later use. Just make sure to thaw them thoroughly before cooking.

. Can I use a different type of vinegar?

While balsamic vinegar is the star of the show in this recipe, you can experiment with other types of vinegar if you prefer. Red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar would both work well.

. Can I add other herbs to the balsamic-fig sauce?

Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with your herbs. Rosemary, sage, or even a pinch of chili flakes would all add an extra layer of flavor to the sauce.

. What is the best way to serve chicken tenders with balsamic-fig sauce?

Chicken tenders with balsamic-fig sauce are delicious on their own, but they also pair well with a variety of sides. Roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad would all make great accompaniments.

. Can I use the balsamic-fig sauce for other dishes?

Definitely! The balsamic-fig sauce is incredibly versatile and can be used to elevate other dishes as well. Try drizzling it over grilled pork chops or roasted vegetables for a burst of flavor.

AprilCook, recipe developer and the heart of Chefwiz. More about April

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