Chicken tenderloins, also known as chicken tenders or chicken strips, are a versatile and popular cut of chicken. But when buying chicken tenderloins, it can be tricky to figure out exactly how many come in a pound. The number can vary depending on the size and thickness of the tenderloins.
Quick Answer
On average, there are between 8-12 chicken tenderloins in a pound. The exact number will depend on the size and thickness of the specific tenderloins.
Calculating Tenderloins Per Pound
To get a more precise estimate for a package of chicken tenderloins, you’ll need to do a quick calculation using the total weight and count of tenderloins.
For example, let’s say a package contains 2 pounds of chicken tenderloins and has 22 tenderloins total. To calculate tenderloins per pound, use this simple formula:
Tenderloins per pound = Total tenderloins ÷ Total weight
So for our example:
Tenderloins per pound = 22 tenderloins ÷ 2 pounds
= 11 tenderloins per pound
This lets you know that for this specific package of tenderloins, there are approximately 11 in each pound.
Typical Size of Chicken Tenderloins
Chicken tenderloins are long, thin strips of meat that come from the underside of the chicken breast. They are usually around 3-6 ounces each. Here are some more details on average chicken tenderloin sizes:
- Small tenderloins: Approximately 3 ounces each
- Medium tenderloins: Approximately 4 ounces each
- Large tenderloins: Approximately 6 ounces each
Since there are 16 ounces in a pound, this means:
- Small tenderloins: About 5 per pound
- Medium tenderloins: About 4 per pound
- Large tenderloins: About 3 per pound
Factors Affecting Tenderloins per Pound
Why such a broad range in the tenderloins per pound? There are a few reasons the count can vary:
- Chicken breed – Some breeds of chicken naturally produce larger tenderloins.
- Butchering – Hand butchering versus mass machine processing can affect size consistency.
- Packaging – Smaller tenderloins may be grouped to hit the 1 pound retail packaging size.
- Thickness – Thicker tenderloins weigh more than thinner, flatter ones.
Comparing Brands of Tenderloins
To compare products and get the best value, pay attention to tenderloin size, thickness, and count per pound among different brands.
For example, here is a comparison of two typical chicken tenderloin packages:
| Brand | Count per package | Total weight | Tenderloins per pound |
|---|---|---|---|
| Foster Farms | 18 tenderloins | 2 lbs | 9 per pound |
| Tyson | 22 tenderloins | 2 lbs | 11 per pound |
In this example, Tyson provides 3 more tenderloins per pound compared to Foster Farms. Buying the Tyson tenderloins will give you a little more value per pound.
Tenderloins vs Chicken Breasts
Chicken tenderloins are cut from the underside of chicken breasts. While nutritionally similar, there are some key differences between tenderloins and whole chicken breasts:
- Tenderloins are longer, thinner, and more uniform in shape.
- Breasts are thicker, with more variable shape.
- Tenderloins cook faster than whole breasts.
- Breasts may cost slightly less per pound than tenderloins.
- Tenderloins are more convenient as they don’t require slicing.
For recipes like chicken fingers or kabobs, tenderloins are often easier to work with. But for other uses like shredding for sandwiches or chopping for stir fries, whole breasts may be the better choice.
Most Popular Uses for Tenderloins
Chicken tenderloins are extremely versatile. Their mild flavor takes well to all kinds of seasonings and cooking methods. Here are some of the most popular ways to use them:
Baked Tenderloins
Coat tenderloins with breadcrumbs, parmesan, spices, or herbs and bake until crisp and golden. Quick and easy!
Chicken Fingers
Dip tenderloins in eggs and breadcrumbs to make classic chicken fingers or chicken strips. Kids love them!
Fajitas
Slice tenderloins and sauté with peppers and onions for easy chicken fajitas.
Kabobs
Thread tenderloins onto skewers with veggies to make grilled kabobs.
Stir Fries
Slice tenderloins and stir fry with your favorite vegetables and sauce.
Salads
Top salads with grilled, baked, or fried tenderloins for extra protein.
Wraps
Slice or dice tenderloins to add to wraps along with veggies, cheese, sauce, etc.
Soups
Simmer diced tenderloins in soups, chili, stews, etc. They’ll cook up quick.
Cooking Tips
Chicken tenderloins cook faster than breasts or thighs since they are so thin. Follow these tips for best results:
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure food safety. Cook to an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Grill tenderloins over direct high heat for just 2-5 minutes per side.
- Pan fry or sauté over medium-high heat for 3-6 minutes per side.
- Bake at 400°F for 10-15 minutes until browned and cooked through.
- Microwave for 2-3 minutes to quickly cook tenderloins.
- Cut slits to prevent curving when grilling or pan frying.
- Stir fry in small batches to keep tenderloins from steaming.
Storing and Freezing Tenderloins
Raw chicken tenderloins only last 1-2 days in the fridge. Follow these storage tips:
- Store tenderloins in air-tight packaging.
- Keep refrigerated at 40°F or less.
- Use within 1-2 days for maximum freshness.
- Freeze for longer storage. They’ll keep for 9 months in the freezer.
- Thaw frozen tenderloins overnight in the fridge before using.
Properly stored, chicken tenderloins will maintain quality and safety.
Prices and Budgeting
Chicken tenderloins are typically priced at $3 to $6 per pound at most grocery stores. Here are some money-saving tips:
- Check weekly ads and stock up when tenderloins go on sale.
- Buy family or bulk packs for better per-pound pricing.
- Compare “value packs” and generic brands for lower prices.
- Watch for freezer discounts to get deals on frozen tenderloins.
- Consider buying whole chickens; removing tenderloins yourself yields more for less.
With the right strategies, you can keep your food budget on track while enjoying tasty and versatile chicken tenderloins!
Nutrition Information
Chicken tenderloins are lean, protein-packed, and nutritious. A 3-ounce serving provides:
| Calories | Protein | Fat | Carbs |
|---|---|---|---|
| 128 | 26 grams | 2 grams | 0 grams |
Chicken tenderloins are an excellent source of protein without too much fat or carbs. They can fit into a balanced, healthy diet.
Conclusion
Chicken tenderloins are versatile, budget-friendly cuts of lean protein. While the tenderloin count per pound can vary, approximately 8-12 tenderloins can be expected per pound on average. Carefully reading labels for size, count, and weight information allows consumers to accurately compare products and get the best value from their grocery dollars when purchasing chicken tenderloins.