If you're looking for a healthy and delicious protein source, you can't go wrong with boneless skinless chicken tenderloins. Just 2 pieces (124 g) contain around 100 calories, making them a great choice for those watching their weight.

But calorie count isn't the only thing that makes chicken tenderloins a smart nutritional choice. They're also packed with protein, vitamins, and minerals that your body needs to function at its best.

In this article, we'll explore the nutritional benefits of chicken tenderloins, how they compare to other meats, and some tasty ways to cook and enjoy them.

Quantity per serving

Each serving of boneless skinless chicken tenderloins is 2 pieces (124 g) in size, making it an easy way to measure out your portions.

Calories in chicken tenderloins

One serving of boneless skinless chicken tenderloins contains around 100 calories. This makes them a great choice for people who are trying to lose weight, as they're low in calories but high in protein. However, keep in mind that how you cook your chicken can impact its calorie count. Frying or breading your chicken can add significant extra calories, so aim for healthier cooking methods like grilling or baking.

Protein content

As we mentioned earlier, chicken tenderloins are a great source of protein. In fact, just 2 pieces (124 g) contain around 26 grams of protein, making them an excellent choice for anyone looking to build muscle, recover after a workout, or simply stay full and satisfied. Protein is essential to many of your body's functions, including building and repairing tissues, making hormones and enzymes, and supporting your immune system.

Fat content

Chicken tenderloins are also low in fat, making them a healthy choice for many people. One serving contains around 1.5 grams of fat, with only a small amount of that being saturated fat. To keep your chicken even leaner, remove any visible skin before cooking and use cooking methods that don't require added fat, like grilling or baking.

Carbohydrate content

Chicken tenderloins are naturally low in carbohydrates, with less than 1 gram of carbs per serving. This makes them a great option for people on a low-carb or ketogenic diet. However, if you're looking to increase your carb intake, you can easily pair your chicken with a carb-rich side dish like sweet potatoes, quinoa, or brown rice.

Vitamin and mineral content

Chicken tenderloins are a good source of several important vitamins and minerals. For example, a single serving can provide anywhere from 10-20% of your daily recommended value of vitamin B6, niacin, phosphorus, and selenium. These nutrients play important roles in everything from energy production to immune system function, so it's worth incorporating chicken into your meal plan regularly to get the maximum benefits.

Health benefits of chicken tenderloins

As you can see, chicken tenderloins provide several health benefits. They're a lean protein source that can help you build muscle, stay full, and keep your weight in check. Additionally, they're a good source of key nutrients like vitamin B6 and phosphorus that are important for overall health and wellbeing.

Comparison to other meats

How do chicken tenderloins stack up against other meats? Compared to red meat like beef or pork, chicken is generally lower in fat and calories, making it a healthier option overall. However, keep in mind that not all chicken is created equal - skinless, boneless cuts like tenderloins are a better choice than fried or breaded chicken, which can be high in unhealthy fats and carbohydrates.

Cooking tips and recipes

There are tons of delicious ways to cook chicken tenderloins. You can grill them, bake them, or saute them with your favorite vegetables for a healthy stir-fry. Check out some of our favorite recipes for inspiration, or experiment with your own flavor combinations to find your perfect dish.

Buying and storing tips

When buying chicken tenderloins, look for fresh meat that is pink and firm to the touch. Avoid any meat that looks discolored or has a foul smell. To store your chicken, keep it in the fridge at 40 degrees Fahrenheit or below, or freeze it for longer storage. Make sure to use your chicken within 2-3 days of purchase if it's fresh, or within 6-9 months if it's frozen.