Ah, grilled chicken tenders—simple yet profoundly satisfying. Imagine a summer afternoon, the sun casting a warm glow as the sizzle of the grill matches the sound of distant laughter. These tenders, juicy and bursting with flavor, are like a warm hug for your taste buds—perfect for those moments when you crave something quick, yet undeniably comforting.
Steps
- Pat the chicken tenders dry to remove any excess moisture and use a fork to remove the tendons if desired. Place them in a large bowl.
- Add olive oil, lemon juice, thyme, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the bowl. Stir well to ensure the chicken is evenly coated, then marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 8 hours in the refrigerator.
- When ready to cook, preheat your grill or grill pan to medium heat. Arrange the chicken tenders on the grill without overlapping them.
- Grill the chicken for about 3-4 minutes on each side, ensuring they are cooked through and juices run clear.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken tenderloins
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed or pre-squeezed)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or substitute with oregano, basil, or rosemary)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
Nutritional Values
Calories: 228kcal | Carbohydrates: 1g | Protein: 24g | Fat: 14g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 73mg | Sodium: 423mg | Potassium: 430mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 288IU | Vitamin C: 7mg | Calcium: 17mg | Iron: 1mg
FAQ
- What does the chicken marinade taste like?
- The marinade is a refreshing blend of lemon juice, dried herbs, and spices. It has a bright, zesty flavor profile that isn’t overwhelming. The combination of thyme, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper gives the chicken a delightful flavor punch.
- Should the grill lid be open or closed when grilling chicken tenders?
- For chicken tenders, which cook in just 3-4 minutes per side, there’s no need to close the grill lid. Closing the lid is more suitable for thicker cuts of chicken that require longer cooking times.
- How can I tell when my chicken tenders are fully cooked?
- Cooking time can vary based on the thickness of your chicken strips. To ensure they are fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165 °F in the thickest part of the tender.
- Can I use other herbs besides thyme in the marinade?
- Yes, you can substitute thyme with other herbs like oregano, basil, or rosemary to customize the flavor to your liking.
- How should I store leftover grilled chicken tenders?
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to four days.
Tips
- Allow Ample Marination Time: Ensure the chicken tenders marinate for at least 30 minutes, but for enhanced flavor and tenderness, consider marinating them for up to 8 hours.
- Remove Tendons for Better Texture: Enhance the eating experience by removing the tendons from the chicken tenders. Grip the tendon with a paper towel and use a fork to separate it from the meat.
- Avoid Overcrowding the Grill: To achieve even grilling and a good sear, ensure that the chicken pieces are not overlapping or too close together on the grill.
- Rest the Chicken Before Serving: Allow the chicken to rest for about 5 minutes after grilling. This step helps the chicken retain its juices, resulting in more flavorful and juicy bites.
Equipment
- Grill Pan – If you don’t have access to an outdoor grill or want to grill indoors, a grill pan is essential to achieve that charred flavor and grill lines.
- Meat Thermometer – To ensure the chicken tenderloins are cooked through, a meat thermometer is useful to check that the internal temperature reaches 165 ºF.
