Everyday Grilled Chicken Tenders

Everyday Grilled Chicken Tenders are the perfect solution for a simple, satisfying meal that pleases the whole family. With their juicy texture and delicious flavors, these tenders are not only easy to make, but they also allow for plenty of customization. Whether you’re serving them as a quick weeknight dinner, packing them for lunch, or throwing them into a summer gathering, these chicken tenders will be a hit. Let’s dive into all you need to know to whip up this delightful dish!

Recipe Information

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

• Calories per serving: 250
• Protein: 25 grams
• Carbohydrates: 1 gram
• Fat: 15 grams
• Fiber: 0 grams
• Sugar: 0 grams
• Sodium: 300 mg

Why Make This Everyday Grilled Chicken Tenders

Making Everyday Grilled Chicken Tenders is a fantastic way to enjoy a healthy, protein-packed meal that is ready in no time. These tenders are perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick yet nutritious. The mix of spices, including garlic and paprika, provides a delightful flavor, ensuring that your chicken is anything but bland. Plus, you can easily adapt this recipe to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.

How to Make Everyday Grilled Chicken Tenders

Making your own grilled chicken tenders is a breeze! Follow these simple steps to create a dish that is sure to impress.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound chicken tenders
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Lemon wedges for serving

Directions:

• Step 1: Preparation

  Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Ensure your grill grates are clean to prevent the chicken from sticking.

• Step 2: Mixing

  In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create a rich seasoning blend.

• Step 3: Coating the Chicken

  Add the chicken tenders to the bowl and coat them evenly with the seasoning mixture. Ensure each tender is generously covered to maximize flavor.

• Step 4: Cooking

  Place the chicken tenders on the hot grill. Grill for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). This will give you a nice char and seal in the juiciness.

• Step 5: Finishing

  Remove the chicken tenders from the grill and serve with fresh lemon wedges. Squeezing lemon juice over the tenders elevates the flavor beautifully!

How to Serve Everyday Grilled Chicken Tenders

These grilled chicken tenders are versatile! Serve them on a bed of fresh greens for a healthy salad, pair them with roasted vegetables for a balanced meal, or offer them as a protein-packed snack at your next gathering. Kids and adults alike will love them, especially with a side of favorite dipping sauce like ranch or honey mustard.

How to Store Everyday Grilled Chicken Tenders

If you have leftovers, store the chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over low heat or pop them in the microwave for a quick meal.

Expert Tips for Perfect Everyday Grilled Chicken Tenders

• Marinating: For extra flavor, consider marinating the chicken tenders in the seasoning mixture for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight in the fridge.
• Grill Marks: For those beautiful grill marks, avoid moving the chicken tenders around too much while they cook. Let them sit until it’s time to flip!
• Using Skewers: If you’re concerned about small pieces falling through the grill grates, thread the tenders onto skewers for easier grilling.

Delicious Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper for a spicy version!
• Herb Infusion: Mix in some dried herbs like thyme or oregano for an earthy flavor.
• Citrus Zest: Grate some lemon or lime zest into the seasoning for a zesty touch.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I use boneless chicken breasts instead of tenders?
  Yes, you can! Just make sure to adjust the cooking time since chicken breasts will take longer to cook through.

• What if I don’t have a grill?
  You can bake the chicken in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through, or use a grill pan on the stovetop.

• Can I freeze the cooked chicken tenders?
  Absolutely! Place cooled tenders in a freezer-safe container. They’ll keep well for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

• What side dishes go well with grilled chicken tenders?
  Great side options include grilled veggies, rice, a fresh salad, or pasta salad.

• Is there a vegetarian substitute for this recipe?
  Yes! Use marinated tofu or vegetable skewers to create a delicious vegetarian dish.

Conclusion

Everyday Grilled Chicken Tenders are not only easy to make but also a favorite among friends and family! With a few simple ingredients and clear steps, you can create a delicious grilled chicken dish packed with flavor and nutrition. Don’t hesitate to give this recipe a try next time you’re in need of a quick meal or a crowd-pleasing dish for your next get-together. Happy grilling!