Imagine sinking your teeth into perfectly grilled chicken tenders so juicy and flavorful that they'll have everyone at your dinner table begging for seconds! These aren't just any chicken tenders – these are a grilling masterpiece that combines simple ingredients with professional-level technique to create a dish that's both incredibly easy to make and devastatingly delicious. Whether you're a grilling novice or a backyard BBQ champion, this recipe will elevate your cooking game and impress even the pickiest eaters.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken tenders
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh lemon juice
Instructions
- Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve better browning and crispy exterior.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Whisk these ingredients together to create a uniform marinade.
- Add chicken tenders to the marinade, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. Let the chicken marinate for at least 15-20 minutes at room temperature to enhance flavor absorption.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 400-425°F. Clean and oil the grill grates to prevent sticking and ensure beautiful grill marks.
- Place marinated chicken tenders on the preheated grill. Cook for 5-7 minutes on the first side, allowing nice char marks and golden-brown coloration to develop.
- Flip the chicken tenders carefully using tongs. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes on the second side until internal temperature reaches 165°F, ensuring complete food safety.
- Remove chicken from grill and let rest for 3-5 minutes. This allows juices to redistribute, keeping the meat tender and moist.
- Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the grilled chicken tenders just before serving to add brightness and enhance the overall flavor profile.
- Serve hot with your favorite sides like grilled vegetables, rice, or a fresh summer salad.
Tips
- Pat those chicken tenders completely dry before marinating – moisture is the enemy of a crispy, golden-brown exterior!
- Don't rush the marinating process. Those 15-20 minutes allow the flavors to penetrate deeply into the meat.
- Preheat your grill thoroughly and clean the grates to prevent sticking and achieve beautiful grill marks.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature hits 165°F – food safety is crucial!
- Always let your chicken rest after grilling. This simple step keeps the meat tender and locks in those delicious juices.
- The fresh lemon squeeze at the end isn't optional – it's the secret weapon that brightens the entire flavor profile.
- For extra flavor, experiment with different spice combinations in your marinade, but keep the olive oil base consistent.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 183kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 60mg
