Chicken Tenderloin Vs Breast: What is what?
Chicken tenderloin vs breast? What’s the difference between chicken breast and tenderloin? Chicken tenderloins are found between the breast meat and the breast bone. Chicken breast is leaner, while the tenderloin is more tender.
Both types of meat are considered to be white meat and they are sometimes hard to distinguish. However, there are many differences between these two types of chicken meat, so keep reading to learn more!
Table of Contents
Chicken Tenderloin Vs Breast
The Anatomy
Chicken tenderloins, also called chicken tenders, are often confused for chicken breast meat because of the chicken’s anatomy. Chicken tenderloins are actually two muscles that are located underneath the breast meat, right along the breast bone.
Basically, the chicken breast is the outer muscle, while the chicken tenderloin is the inner muscle. These muscles are well-connected, and many times, chicken tenderloins are sold together with chicken breasts.
Chicken tenderloins are also known as chicken goujons, chicken strips, chicken fingers, and chicken fillets.
Flavor And Texture
While chicken breasts are large muscles, chicken tenderloins are thinner and half the size. Chicken tender meat is, similar to beef tenderloin, extremely tender and can be easily ruined when slicing chicken breasts.
When it comes to flavor, chicken breasts and tenderloins are quite similar, but tenderloins are a bit more flavorful. Still, their flavors are not that different, and some people don’t see any difference at all.
Nutritional Value
Tenderloins contain a bit more calories and fat content, while chicken breasts are rich in zinc, magnesium, potassium, calcium, and vitamins d and B6.
Chicken breast is also richer in protein and cobalamin, a nutrient responsible for the production of red blood cells.
Cooking Methods
How do you cook chicken tenderloin vs. chicken breast? Cooking chicken tenderloin is not much different than when you cook chicken breast, but the cooking time should be shorter because of how tender this meat is.
Also, when you cook chicken breasts, it is easy to overcook them and make them dry, while that rarely happens with tenderloins due to their higher fat content. However, while there are some great chicken tenderloin recipes, chicken breasts are more versatile and can be used in various recipes.
Both chicken breast and tenderloin go exceptionally well with garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and herbs such as thyme, oregano, and parsley.
Another interesting difference between chicken breast and tenderloin lies in the fact that chicken breast absorbs the flavors better, which is perfect for marinating it. On the other hand, chicken tenderloin doesn’t really absorb any other flavors, but it can still be delicious when pan-fried, steamed, or baked.
The Availability
Since breast meat is much larger than tenderloin, it is more available to buy. Also, tenderloin often gets sold together with the breast meat, or it gets ruined when slicing the breast meat, which makes it even less available, and even exclusive in a way.
Is Chicken Tenderloin Better Than Breast?
It really depends on what you’re looking for. If you want leaner, more tender chicken, then chicken breasts are definitely the way to go.
However, if you’re looking for more flavor and juiciness, then chicken tenderloins are probably a better option. Ultimately, it all comes down to personal preference.
Another thing to keep in mind is that chicken tenderloins cook much faster than chicken breasts. So if you’re short on time or just don’t feel like cooking for a long period of time, then chicken tenderloins are definitely the way to go.
Can I Use Chicken Tenderloins Instead Of Breasts?
If you’re looking for a more tender chicken option, chicken tenderloins are a great choice. Though they tend to be more expensive than chicken breasts, they can be used in many of the same dishes.
When cooked properly, chicken tenderloins are juicy and full of flavor. So if you’re wondering if you can use chicken tenderloins instead of breasts, the answer is yes; just be sure to adjust your cooking time accordingly, as you will need less time to cook chicken tenderloins.
Is Chicken Tenderloin Healthier Than Chicken Breast?
Chicken breast is generally considered to be a healthier option than chicken tenderloins. This is because chicken breast is lower in fat and calories, and it also contains less cholesterol. So, if you’re looking for a healthier option, lean meat like chicken breast is a good choice.
Of course, chicken tenderloin has its own health benefits too. For example, it’s a good source of protein and provides essential nutrients like vitamin B12 and selenium.
Ultimately, chicken breast is a healthier option. If you’re trying to lose weight or cut down on fat intake, choose chicken breast. If you’re looking for a nutrient-rich option, both the chicken tenderloin and the chicken breast will be a great choice for a healthy meal.
Which Is More Expensive: Chicken Tenderloin Or Chicken Breast?
Generally speaking, chicken tenderloins are going to be more expensive than chicken breasts. This is because they are considered to be a more premium cut of meat. However, this doesn’t mean that they are always more expensive.
It really depends on where you shop and what time of year it is. For example, during the summer months, chicken breasts tend to be cheaper than tenderloins. But in the winter, when demand is higher, prices for both types of chicken can go up.
Summary
So, chicken tenderloin vs. breast? Where is the difference? The differences are many, the first one being that they are separate parts of chicken meat. Tenderloin contains more fat and more calories than breast meat, and it is more tender.
The ultimate decision on which is the better option is up to you completely. Your personal preferences and nutritional needs will determine what’s best for you. So, which one do you prefer, chicken tenderloin or breast? Write in the comments!
