Busy weeknights demand fast, satisfying meals—and nothing hits the mark like chicken tenders paired with pasta. From creamy Parmesan sauces to crispy breaded chicken or lighter garlic-and-oil pasta, this versatile pairing works for every taste and skill level.
Whether feeding picky kids, hungry teens, or a full family after a long day, these recipes are fast, family-friendly, and flavorful.
Why Chicken Tenders Are Perfect for Pasta Dinners
- Faster Cooking: Tenders cook quicker than whole chicken breasts.
- No Marinating or Pounding Needed: Save prep time without compromising flavor.
- Naturally Tender: Even if slightly overcooked, they stay juicy.
- Evenly Sized Bites: Perfect for mixing with pasta and sauce.
Every bite delivers balanced protein and carbs, keeping dinners wholesome and filling.
Recipe 1: One-Pot Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta
A restaurant-style pasta, rich and comforting—all in one pot.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken tenders, seasoned with Italian seasoning, salt & pepper
- 8 oz short pasta (penne, rigatoni, or shells)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- ¾ cup half-and-half
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 2 tbsp butter + olive oil
Instructions:
- Brown chicken in butter and oil (4–5 min per side), then remove.
- Sauté onion until soft, add garlic 30 sec.
- Deglaze pan with chicken broth, scraping browned bits.
- Add remaining broth, half-and-half, and pasta. Simmer 11–13 min, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in Parmesan and return chicken. Let rest 2–3 min to thicken.
Recipe 2: Crispy Breaded Chicken Tenders with Garlic Pasta
A crunchy, satisfying option for texture lovers.
Breading Setup:
- Bowl 1: Flour + Parmesan + black pepper
- Bowl 2: Beaten eggs
- Bowl 3: Breadcrumbs
Instructions:
- Dredge tenders: flour → egg → flour → breadcrumbs.
- Fry in olive oil 5–6 min per side (internal temp 165°F).
- Serve over angel hair pasta tossed with olive oil, garlic, and red pepper flakes.
Recipe 3: Air Fryer Chicken Tenders with Marinara Pasta
Crispy chicken without deep frying.
- Toss chicken with olive oil, Parmesan, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Air fry at 400°F for 12 min, flipping halfway.
- Serve over pasta with warm marinara sauce, garnish with basil and extra Parmesan.
Recipe 4: White Wine Garlic Chicken Pasta (Light & Creamy)
A lighter alternative to Alfredo with bright garlic and wine flavors.
- Sear chicken, remove.
- Sauté garlic in butter + olive oil.
- Whisk in flour, add white wine (reduce by half), gradually add chicken broth.
- Simmer 5–8 min, add ⅓ cup cream and lemon juice. Toss with farfalle or spaghetti and top with chicken.
Choosing the Right Pasta Shape
| Sauce Type | Best Pasta | Avoid |
|---|---|---|
| Creamy/Chunky | Penne, Rigatoni, Farfalle | Tiny pasta like orzo |
| Oil-Based | Angel Hair, Thin Spaghetti | Large chicken chunks |
Meal Prep & Storage Tips
- Bread uncooked tenders up to 24 hrs in advance.
- Freeze breaded tenders for 3 months.
- Cooked chicken lasts 4 days in fridge.
Common Problems & Solutions
- Dry chicken: Cook on medium-high, remove at 165°F.
- Soggy breading: Avoid overcrowding pan; cook in batches.
- Watery sauce: Add pasta water gradually.
- Bland flavor: Season chicken, pasta water, and sauce properly.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken tenders? Yes, thaw fully and pat dry.
Can I substitute chicken breasts? Cut into 1-inch strips; monitor cooking time.
What wine works best? Dry whites like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.
Can I make it gluten-free? Use gluten-free pasta and almond flour/GF breadcrumbs.
What to Serve on the Side
- Caesar salad or arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette
- Roasted broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts
- Garlic bread for larger gatherings
Final Thoughts
Chicken tenders with pasta are fast, easy, and family-approved. With smart techniques, flavorful sauces, and simple shortcuts, you can serve dinner that beats takeout every time, keeping prep minimal and taste maximum.