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Grilled Chicken Tenders
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Grilled Chicken Tenders

Grilled chicken tenders are a quick, flavorful, and healthy meal option marinated in olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs, then grilled to juicy perfection. This simple recipe is perfect for weeknights or cookouts and pairs well with a variety of sides.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time10 minutes
Total Time25 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Chicken, Easy, Grilled, Healthy, Quick
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 pound chicken tenders (mini chicken fillets in the UK)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil for a rich, fruity base to the marinade
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice adds brightness and tenderizes the chicken
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme earthy and slightly minty herb flavor
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano classic Mediterranean herb that pairs beautifully with lemon and thyme
  • ½ teaspoon salt enhances all the flavors
  • ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper for a subtle kick

Instructions

  • In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper until well combined. This simple marinade will infuse the chicken tenders with vibrant, aromatic flavors.
  • Place the chicken tenders in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor.
  • Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 400°F (200°C). If you don’t have an outdoor grill, you can use a grill pan on the stovetop or a broiler in your oven.
  • Remove the chicken tenders from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Place them on the grill in a single layer without overcrowding. Grill for about 3-4 minutes per side, turning once, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
  • Transfer the grilled chicken tenders to a plate and let them rest for 5 minutes to retain their juices. Serve warm with your favorite sides such as a crisp green salad, grilled vegetables, or fluffy rice.

Equipment

  • Grill
  • Medium Bowl
  • Resealable Plastic Bag
  • Meat Thermometer

Notes

For the juiciest chicken, don’t skip the resting step after grilling. Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness. You can customize the marinade by adding garlic, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, or swapping herbs. Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.