Chicken Tendons: Benefits & Should You Eat Them?

Should you reconsider your relationship with that often-overlooked ingredient in your chicken dinner? Chicken tendons, those firm, white strings, are not only edible but can also offer a surprising array of nutritional benefits.

When preparing chicken, particularly tenderloins, you've likely encountered the seemingly innocuous chicken tendon. These are most noticeable in the tenderloin, the smaller, often overlooked piece attached to the chicken breast. They appear as firm, white strings running along one side. Many home cooks and chefs alike often remove them, viewing them as a nuisance that affects the texture of the final dish. But is this practice justified? The answer, as with many culinary questions, is nuanced.

Chicken tendons are essentially connective tissue, serving the critical function of connecting muscles to bones, much like our own tendons. This tissue, composed primarily of collagen, gelatin, and amino acids, provides structure and support within the chicken. The presence of these tendons can impact the texture of a cooked tenderloin, often rendering it slightly tougher or rubbery. This is why many people choose to remove them when preparing dishes like fried chicken strips or grilled skewers, as it can enhance the overall eating experience. However, the decision to remove or retain the tendons ultimately boils down to personal preference and the specific dish being prepared.

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But what about the nutritional value of chicken tendons? Contrary to common misconceptions, these aren't simply inert byproducts. They are, in fact, a concentrated source of beneficial compounds. A 100-gram serving of tendons, for example, contains approximately 36.7 grams of protein, 0.5 grams of fat, and 0 grams of carbohydrates, offering a relatively lean source of protein.

Consider the following table that illustrates key aspects related to the nutritional profile of chicken tendons. Note that the specific values may vary slightly depending on the chicken breed, age, and preparation method.