Grilled Chicken Tenders

Grilled chicken tenders are a delicious and healthy option perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. These tenders are marinated in a quick and flavorful mix that keeps them juicy and tender on the grill. Ideal for family dinners or gatherings, this recipe is versatile and can be served with various sides or salads. Experience the delightful taste of perfectly grilled chicken tenders every time!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 5 minutes of prep, you can have a flavorful dish ready in no time.
• Moist and Juicy: The marinade ensures your grilled chicken tenders come out tender and full of flavor.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve these tenders over salads, in wraps, or alongside your favorite veggies for a balanced meal.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a batch ahead of time for easy meals throughout the week.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love these tasty chicken tenders, making them an easy choice for family dinners.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes preparing grilled chicken tenders even easier. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill (outdoor or grill pan)
• Whisk
• Ziptop bag or mixing bowl
• Shallow dish

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Provides even cooking and gives that delicious charred flavor to the chicken.
• Whisk: Ensures that all ingredients are blended well for a smooth marinade.
• Ziptop bag: Perfect for marinating; it allows the chicken to soak up flavors while minimizing mess.
• Shallow dish: Catches any spills from marinating, keeping your fridge clean.

Ingredients

Grilled chicken tenders that are moist and juicy every time! The secret is a fast, flavorful marinade. Ready in minutes and perfect for healthy dinners and meal prep.

For the Chicken

• 1 pound chicken tenders (you also can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts sliced into 1-inch strips)

For the Marinade

• 1/4 cup water
• 2 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice)
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

For Grilling

• Vegetable oil (for grilling)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Grilled Chicken Tenders

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a small bowl or larger liquid measuring cup, whisk together the water, soy sauce, vinegar, honey, pepper, and salt. Transfer this mixture to a 1-gallon ziptop bag.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Add the chicken to the bag and seal it tightly while pressing out excess air. Gently squish the bag to coat all pieces evenly with marinade. Place it in a shallow dish and refrigerate. Marinate for 30 minutes up to 8 hours.

Step 3: Preheat the Grill

When ready to grill, take out the marinated chicken from the refrigerator. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium heat (about 375 degrees F). Oil the grill grates lightly.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken Tenders

Place the chicken tenders on the heated grill in a single layer without overlapping them. Shake off any excess marinade before cooking. Grill each side for about 3 to 4 minutes until juices run clear and internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F.

Step 5: Rest Before Serving

Once cooked, transfer the grilled chicken tenders to a plate or cutting board. Cover with foil and let rest for about 2 to 3 minutes before serving to allow juices to reincorporate.

How to Serve Grilled Chicken Tenders

Grilled chicken tenders are versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or looking for a quick weeknight dinner, these juicy tenders will impress your guests and family alike.

On a Salad

• Fresh Greens: Slice the grilled chicken tenders over a bed of mixed greens for a light meal.
• Caesar Salad: Toss the tenders with romaine, Parmesan cheese, croutons, and Caesar dressing for a satisfying dish.

In a Wrap

• Tortilla Wrap: Roll the chicken with lettuce, tomatoes, and your favorite sauce for an easy-to-eat option.
• Pita Pocket: Use pita bread and fill it with grilled chicken, cucumbers, and tzatziki sauce for Mediterranean flair.

As Sliders

• Mini Buns: Place grilled chicken tenders on slider buns with toppings like coleslaw or pickles for a fun appetizer.
• BBQ Sauce: Drizzle with barbecue sauce and serve on small rolls for a delicious twist.

With Dipping Sauces

• Ranch Dressing: Serve the tenders with ranch dip for a classic pairing.
• Chili Sauce: Add some heat by providing sweet chili sauce or sriracha on the side.

How to Perfect Grilled Chicken Tenders

To ensure your grilled chicken tenders are always moist and flavorful, follow these helpful tips.

• Marinate Properly: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes. This infuses flavor and keeps the meat tender.
• Use Medium Heat: Grill at medium heat to prevent burning while ensuring thorough cooking.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Grill: Leave space between tenders to promote even cooking and avoid steaming.
• Check Internal Temperature: Use an instant-read thermometer; aim for 165 degrees F to ensure safety.
• Rest Before Serving: Let the grilled chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking to retain juices.
• Experiment with Marinades: Try different marinades like teriyaki or lemon-herb to change up flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Chicken Tenders

Pairing your grilled chicken tenders with delicious sides can elevate your meal. Here are some great options that complement this dish wonderfully.

1. Grilled Vegetables: Bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms drizzled with olive oil make a colorful addition.
2. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice mixed with herbs provides a hearty base that pairs well with tender chicken.
3. Coleslaw: A crunchy slaw adds freshness and texture, balancing the savory flavors of the tenders.
4. Baked Potatoes: Serve them as loaded potatoes topped with cheese, sour cream, and chives for extra comfort.
5. Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn brushed with butter is a classic summer side that everyone loves.
6. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing salad made from quinoa mixed with veggies offers nutritional benefits alongside taste.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making grilled chicken tenders, it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Not Marinating Long Enough: Skipping the marination process or not allowing enough time can lead to bland chicken. Aim for at least 30 minutes, but longer is better for flavor.

• Overcrowding the Grill: Placing too many tenders on the grill can cause uneven cooking. Always grill in a single layer and allow space between each piece for proper heat circulation.

• Skipping the Resting Period: Cutting into your chicken right after grilling releases juices and dries it out. Let your grilled chicken tenders rest for 2-3 minutes before serving to keep them juicy.

• Ignoring Temperature Checks: Cooking without checking the internal temperature can lead to undercooked or overcooked chicken. Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches 165 degrees F.

• Using Low-Quality Chicken: Not all chicken is created equal. Choose fresh, high-quality chicken tenders for the best results and flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store grilled chicken tenders in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Make sure they are completely cooled before sealing their container.

Freezing Grilled Chicken Tenders

• Place cooked tenders in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Label containers with date to track freshness.

Reheating Grilled Chicken Tenders

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat on a baking sheet for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals (1-2 minutes) until hot, covering with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.

• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes, adding a splash of water or broth to keep them moist.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to marinate grilled chicken tenders?

The best way is to use a mix of soy sauce, vinegar, honey, and spices. Marinating for at least 30 minutes allows flavors to penetrate deeply.

Can I use boneless skinless chicken breasts instead of tenders?

Yes! You can cut boneless skinless chicken breasts into strips for this recipe if you can’t find chicken tenders.

How do I know when grilled chicken tenders are done?

Grilled chicken tenders should reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees F. An instant-read thermometer is your best tool for this check.

What sides pair well with grilled chicken tenders?

Grilled vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad complement grilled chicken tenders nicely and make a balanced meal.

Final Thoughts

Grilled chicken tenders are not only quick and easy but also versatile enough for any meal occasion. With a simple marinade, you can create moist and flavorful pieces that everyone will love. Feel free to customize with your favorite herbs or spices to make this dish truly yours!