Are you a fan of Gardein chicken tenders but don’t have the time to cook them in the oven or on the stovetop? Look no further! In this article, we’ll show you how to cook Gardein chicken tenders in the microwave quickly and easily. We’ll also provide some tips and tricks to ensure that your tenders turn out crispy and delicious.
Why Cook Gardein Chicken Tenders in the Microwave?
Cooking Gardein chicken tenders in the microwave is a great option for several reasons:
- It’s quick: Cooking Gardein chicken tenders in the microwave is much faster than cooking them in the oven or on the stovetop. You can have a delicious and satisfying meal ready in just a few minutes.
- It’s easy: Simply place the tenders in the microwave and cook on high for a few minutes. You don’t have to worry about constantly monitoring the temperature or stirring the tenders.
- It’s convenient: The microwave is a convenient way to cook Gardein chicken tenders because it allows you to cook a small amount of food quickly and easily. This is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
How to Cook Gardein Chicken Tenders in the Microwave
Cooking Gardein chicken tenders in the microwave is a straightforward process. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Prepare the Tenders
Before you start cooking, make sure you have the following:
- Gardein chicken tenders
- A microwave-safe plate or dish
- A paper towel
Place the tenders on the plate or dish, leaving a little space between each tender. This will help them cook evenly.
Step 2: Cook the Tenders
Place the plate or dish in the microwave and cook on high for 3-4 minutes. You may need to adjust the cooking time depending on the number of tenders you’re cooking and your personal preference for doneness.
Here’s a general guideline for cooking times:
| Number of Tenders | Cooking Time |
| —————– | ———— |
| 2-3 tenders | 3-4 minutes |
| 4-5 tenders | 4-5 minutes |
Step 3: Check the Tenders
After the cooking time has elapsed, remove the tenders from the microwave and check if they’re cooked to your liking. If they’re not cooked enough, return them to the microwave for an additional 30 seconds to 1 minute.
Step 4: Serve
Once the tenders are cooked, remove them from the microwave and serve hot. You can serve them with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ketchup, mustard, or ranch dressing.
Tips and Tricks for Cooking Gardein Chicken Tenders in the Microwave
Here are some tips and tricks to help you cook delicious Gardein chicken tenders in the microwave:
Use a Microwave-Safe Plate or Dish
Make sure you use a microwave-safe plate or dish to cook your tenders. This will help prevent the risk of the plate or dish exploding or catching fire.
Cook the Tenders in Batches
If you’re cooking a large number of tenders, it’s best to cook them in batches. This will help ensure that they cook evenly and prevent them from steaming instead of browning.
Don’t Overcook the Tenders
Gardein chicken tenders can become dry and tough if they’re overcooked. Make sure you check the tenders frequently while they’re cooking and remove them from the microwave as soon as they’re cooked to your liking.
Use a Paper Towel to Absorb Excess Moisture
Placing a paper towel under the tenders can help absorb excess moisture and promote even cooking.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cooking Gardein Chicken Tenders in the Microwave
Here are some common mistakes to avoid when cooking Gardein chicken tenders in the microwave:
Cooking the Tenders for Too Long
Cooking the tenders for too long can cause them to become dry and tough. Make sure you check the tenders frequently while they’re cooking and remove them from the microwave as soon as they’re cooked to your liking.
Not Using a Microwave-Safe Plate or Dish
Using a plate or dish that’s not microwave-safe can cause it to explode or catch fire. Make sure you use a microwave-safe plate or dish to cook your tenders.
Cooking the Tenders at Too High a Power Level
Cooking the tenders at too high a power level can cause them to cook unevenly. Make sure you cook the tenders at a medium to high power level to ensure even cooking.
Conclusion
Cooking Gardein chicken tenders in the microwave is a quick and easy way to prepare a delicious meal. By following the steps outlined in this article and avoiding common mistakes, you can ensure that your tenders turn out crispy and delicious. So next time you’re in a hurry, give cooking Gardein chicken tenders in the microwave a try!
What are Gardein Chicken Tenders and are they suitable for a microwave?
Gardein Chicken Tenders are a popular plant-based alternative to traditional chicken tenders, made from a combination of pea protein, soy protein, and other plant-based ingredients. They are designed to mimic the taste and texture of chicken tenders, making them a great option for vegetarians and vegans. Gardein Chicken Tenders are suitable for microwave cooking, and in fact, the microwave is one of the recommended cooking methods.
When cooking Gardein Chicken Tenders in the microwave, it’s essential to follow the package instructions for the best results. The microwave cooking time may vary depending on the number of tenders you are cooking and your personal preference for doneness. It’s also crucial to ensure that the tenders are cooked evenly to avoid undercooked or overcooked areas.
How do I cook Gardein Chicken Tenders in the microwave?
To cook Gardein Chicken Tenders in the microwave, start by placing the desired number of tenders on a microwave-safe plate. Make sure to leave some space between each tender to allow for even cooking. You can cook the tenders straight from the freezer or thaw them first, depending on your preference. If cooking from frozen, you may need to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Place the plate in the microwave and set the cooking time according to the package instructions. Typically, it takes around 2-3 minutes to cook 2-3 tenders, but this time may vary depending on your microwave’s power level. After the cooking time has elapsed, carefully remove the plate from the microwave and check if the tenders are cooked to your liking. If not, return them to the microwave for an additional 30 seconds to 1 minute.
Can I cook Gardein Chicken Tenders from frozen in the microwave?
Yes, you can cook Gardein Chicken Tenders from frozen in the microwave. In fact, this is a convenient option when you’re short on time or forgot to thaw them. When cooking from frozen, it’s essential to adjust the cooking time accordingly. You may need to add an extra 30 seconds to 1 minute to the recommended cooking time to ensure that the tenders are cooked through.
However, it’s crucial to note that cooking from frozen may affect the texture and crispiness of the tenders. If you want to achieve a crisper exterior, it’s recommended to thaw the tenders first or cook them in a pan with a little oil after microwaving.
How do I ensure even cooking when microwaving Gardein Chicken Tenders?
To ensure even cooking when microwaving Gardein Chicken Tenders, it’s essential to follow a few tips. First, make sure to leave some space between each tender on the plate to allow for even cooking. You can also rotate the plate halfway through the cooking time to ensure that the tenders are cooked uniformly.
Another tip is to cover the plate with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap to help retain moisture and promote even cooking. However, be careful not to overcook the tenders, as this can lead to dryness and a less appealing texture.
Can I add seasonings or sauces to Gardein Chicken Tenders before microwaving?
Yes, you can add seasonings or sauces to Gardein Chicken Tenders before microwaving. In fact, this is a great way to add extra flavor to your tenders. You can sprinkle your favorite seasonings, such as paprika, garlic powder, or dried herbs, over the tenders before cooking.
If you prefer to add a sauce, you can brush it onto the tenders before microwaving or serve it on the side as a dipping sauce. Some popular sauce options include BBQ sauce, honey mustard, or ranch dressing. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly if you’re adding a sauce, as it may affect the cooking time.
Are Gardein Chicken Tenders a healthy option when cooked in the microwave?
Gardein Chicken Tenders are a relatively healthy option compared to traditional chicken tenders, as they are made from plant-based ingredients and are lower in saturated fat and cholesterol. When cooked in the microwave, they can be a quick and easy option for a healthy meal.
However, it’s essential to keep in mind that Gardein Chicken Tenders are still a processed food and should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. You can also make them healthier by serving them with a side of steamed vegetables or a salad.
Can I reheat cooked Gardein Chicken Tenders in the microwave?
Yes, you can reheat cooked Gardein Chicken Tenders in the microwave. In fact, this is a convenient option when you have leftover tenders that you want to enjoy later. To reheat cooked tenders, simply place them on a microwave-safe plate and heat them for 20-30 seconds or until warmed through.
However, be careful not to overheat the tenders, as this can lead to dryness and a less appealing texture. You can also reheat them in a pan with a little oil or in the oven for a crisper exterior.