Introduction
Grilled chicken tenders are a scrumptious and nutritious meal that both kids and adults will love. These juicy chicken strips are marinated in a flavorful combination of spices and then grilled to perfection. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of making this easy and mouthwatering dish.
These Grilled Chicken Tenders Are a Breeze to Make!
If we had to guess the most popular meal ordered at family restaurants, chicken tenders would definitely top the list. It’s no wonder why—they’re simply irresistible! However, you don’t have to go out to enjoy this treat. With our Easy Grilled Chicken Tenders recipe, you can recreate this mouthwatering dish at home. The best part? It’s a healthier version that is low in fat and carbs!
What You’ll Need
Before we start grilling, let’s gather the essentials:
- Chicken: Cut boneless, skinless chicken breasts into strips.
- Pickle Juice: Adds tangy flavor to the marinade.
- Milk: Any type of milk will do.
- Hot Sauce: If you prefer a milder taste, feel free to skip this ingredient.
- Spices/Seasoning: Combine kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and celery salt for a flavorful blend.
How to Grill Chicken Tenders
Now that we have all the ingredients ready, let’s dive into the grilling process. Don’t worry—it won’t take long at all!
- Cut the Chicken into Strips: Place the chicken strips in a large zip-top bag.
- Make the Marinade: Add pickle juice, milk, and hot sauce to the bag. Seal it and squeeze to combine the ingredients and coat the chicken. Allow the chicken to marinate for 2 hours.
- Season the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it on a platter. In a small bowl, mix salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and celery salt. Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly on both sides of the chicken.
- Grill the Chicken: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Cook the tenders for about 3 minutes per side.
How Long Does It Take to Grill Chicken?
The grilling time can vary depending on your grill’s heat. On average, it takes around 6 to 7 minutes to fully cook the chicken tenders. If you’re unsure, you can always use a meat thermometer to check if the internal temperature has reached 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
Grilled Chicken Tenders Tips for Success
Even if you’re already a chicken tenders expert, a few tips can always come in handy:
- Let the Tenders Soak in the Marinade: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Grates: Make sure to leave enough space between each tender to ensure even cooking.
- Preheat the Grill: A properly heated grill will give you those beautiful char marks and cook the tenders more efficiently.
- If It’s Cold Out: If grilling isn’t an option, you can cook the tenders in a skillet with some olive oil for equally delicious results.
Serving Suggestions
Wondering what to serve alongside your grilled chicken? We’ve got you covered! Here are some ideas that are always a hit:
- Dipping Sauce: Pair your chicken tenders with our flavorful chicken dipping sauce.
- Fries: Crispy fries or any potato-based dish complements the tenders perfectly.
- Pasta: Enjoy your chicken tenders with buttered pasta or a creamy pasta salad. Rice dishes also work well.
- Vegetables: Steamed broccoli, roasted asparagus, or sautéed mushrooms make great sides. A refreshing green salad is always a good option too.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
Have some leftovers? No worries! Follow these steps to store and reheat your grilled chicken tenders:
- Store: Place the leftover tenders in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm the tenders in a pan over low heat on the stovetop or in the oven at around 350 degrees Fahrenheit until heated through.
Can I Freeze Extras?
Absolutely! You can freeze any remaining chicken tenders in an airtight container for 2-3 months. Make sure to thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating and enjoying.
More Summer Grilling Ideas
Looking for other delicious grilling recipes to try this summer? Here are a few of our favorites:
- Honey Citrus Grilled Chicken with Basil Butter
- Grilled Lime Chicken with Strawberry Avocado Salsa
- Easy Rosemary Chicken Kabobs
- Chicken Pineapple Skewers
- Bruschetta Chicken
Family Cuisine is your go-to resource for delicious family-friendly recipes. Stay tuned for more mouthwatering ideas!
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