Zesty Grilled Chicken Tenders
Discover the perfect blend of flavors with these Zesty Grilled Chicken Tenders, reminiscent of Cracker Barrel's beloved dish. This simple yet delectable recipe combines the tangy notes of Italian dressing with the sweetness of honey and a splash of fresh lime juice, resulting in tender and juicy chicken that’s bursting with flavor. Ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, these chicken tenders are easy to prepare and are sure to impress. Serve them with your favorite sides for a complete meal that satisfies both taste and convenience.
2
Servings
200
Calories
4
Ingredients
Ingredients
Chicken tenders
1 lb (trimmed and cleaned)
Italian dressing
1/2 cup (store-bought or homemade)
Fresh lime juice
1 teaspoon (freshly squeezed)
Honey
1 1/2 teaspoons (liquid)
Instructions
1
In a large bowl, combine the Italian dressing, fresh lime juice, and honey. Whisk until well blended.
2
Add the cleaned chicken tenders to the marinade, ensuring each piece is fully coated.
3
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, allowing the flavors to meld.
4
Preheat a non-stick skillet or grill over medium heat. Lightly oil the surface if necessary.
5
Remove the chicken tenders from the marinade, shaking off any excess liquid. Discard the remaining marinade.
6
Cook the chicken tenders for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they reach a golden brown color and an internal temperature of 165°F. Avoid overcooking to retain moisture.
7
Remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your flavorful grilled chicken tenders!
Nutrition Information
6g
Fat
6g
Carbs
28g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Zesty Grilled Chicken Tenders?
Zesty Grilled Chicken Tenders are a flavorful dish featuring chicken marinated in a blend of Italian dressing, lime juice, and honey.
What is the inspiration for this recipe?
This recipe is inspired by the popular grilled chicken tenders served at Cracker Barrel.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
For the best flavor, marinate the chicken tenders in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
What ingredients are in the marinade?
The marinade is made from Italian dressing, fresh lime juice, and liquid honey.
How many calories are in one serving?
Each serving contains approximately 200 calories.
What is the recommended internal temperature for the chicken?
The chicken should be cooked until it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
How long does it take to cook the tenders?
Cook the chicken tenders for 4 to 5 minutes per side until golden brown.
Can I cook these chicken tenders in a skillet?
Yes, you can use a non-stick skillet over medium heat if a grill is not available.
How much Italian dressing is needed?
The recipe requires 1/2 cup of Italian dressing.
Should I use fresh or bottled lime juice?
Freshly squeezed lime juice is recommended for the best zesty flavor.
How much honey is used in the recipe?
You will need 1 1/2 teaspoons of liquid honey.
How much chicken does this recipe require?
The recipe calls for 1 lb of trimmed and cleaned chicken tenders.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe yields 2 servings.
How much fat is in each serving?
There are 6 grams of fat per serving.
What is the protein content per serving?
Each serving provides 28 grams of protein.
How many carbohydrates are in this dish?
There are 6 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
Should I keep the leftover marinade?
No, you should always discard any remaining marinade after removing the raw chicken.
Is it important to let the chicken rest?
Yes, letting the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking helps it retain its moisture.
Can I use homemade Italian dressing?
Yes, you can use either store-bought or homemade Italian dressing.
How should I prepare the chicken tenders?
The chicken tenders should be trimmed and cleaned before being added to the marinade.
Is this recipe suitable for a quick weeknight dinner?
Yes, it is an ideal quick dinner because it is easy to prepare and fast to cook.
Can I serve these at a weekend gathering?
Absolutely, these flavorful tenders are easy to scale up and are sure to impress guests.
What makes these chicken tenders so juicy?
The combination of the acidic lime juice and oil in the Italian dressing helps tenderize the meat while cooking to the correct temperature keeps it moist.
Are there any fibers in this recipe?
No, this recipe does not contain a significant amount of dietary fiber.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, the mild and slightly sweet flavor profile makes it a favorite for children.
What tools are needed for this recipe?
You will need a large bowl, a whisk, plastic wrap, and a skillet or grill.
Should I oil the cooking surface?
You should lightly oil the skillet or grill surface if necessary to prevent sticking.
Can I substitute chicken breast for tenders?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts sliced into strips as a substitute for tenders.
What tags describe this recipe?
Tags include grilled chicken tenders, easy chicken recipe, and Cracker Barrel inspired.
How do I prevent the chicken from overcooking?
Use a meat thermometer to pull the chicken off the heat exactly when it reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.