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Grilled chicken tenders are one of those dishes that are simple yet flavorful, offering a perfect balance of juicy meat and smoky char.
If you’ve ever dined at Cracker Barrel and enjoyed their grilled chicken tenders, you know exactly how delicious and satisfying they can be.
Now, you can recreate this beloved restaurant favorite right in your own kitchen.
This recipe brings you the same tender, perfectly seasoned chicken tenders with that irresistible grilled flavor, all made from the comfort of your home.
Not only is this Cracker Barrel Grilled Chicken Tenders Recipe quick and easy, but it’s also customizable, allowing you to adjust the flavors to your liking.
Whether you’re preparing dinner for your family or looking for a healthy meal prep option, these grilled chicken tenders will not disappoint.
The best part? You don’t need to be an expert cook to pull this off – just follow the simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.
So, fire up the grill and let’s dive into the ingredients and step-by-step instructions to create a meal that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients Needed for Cracker Barrel Grilled Chicken Tenders
Creating the perfect grilled chicken tenders starts with using fresh, high-quality ingredients.
Here’s what you’ll need to bring that Cracker Barrel-inspired flavor to life:
Fresh Chicken Tenders
For the best results, use fresh boneless, skinless chicken tenders.
These are ideal for grilling because they cook quickly, staying juicy and tender.
Be sure to trim any excess fat from the chicken pieces before marinating them for an even texture.
Olive Oil
Olive oil is the base of your marinade, helping to keep the chicken moist and adding a touch of richness.
It also helps the seasonings adhere to the chicken as it grills.
Lemon Juice
Lemon juice not only provides a zesty kick but also helps tenderize the chicken.
The acidity of lemon juice breaks down some of the proteins, resulting in a more tender texture.
Garlic Powder and Onion Powder
Both garlic powder and onion powder are essential in creating a flavorful marinade.
These seasonings add depth to the chicken without overpowering the natural flavors of the meat.
The perfect balance of savory spices is what makes these grilled chicken tenders irresistible.
Smoked Paprika
Smoked paprika is a key ingredient to achieving that subtle smoky flavor we love in grilled dishes.
It brings a slightly sweet and earthy taste, elevating the overall flavor profile of the chicken tenders.
Black Pepper and Salt
A pinch of salt and freshly cracked black pepper is essential to season the chicken properly.
These two ingredients enhance the other flavors and bring the dish together.
Fresh Parsley (Optional)
To finish off the dish and add a pop of color, fresh parsley can be sprinkled on top of the grilled chicken tenders.
This is an optional garnish, but it does add a refreshing touch and enhances the dish’s presentation.
Additional Side Suggestions (Optional)
Though not part of the chicken recipe itself, consider adding sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp salad to round out your meal and complete the Cracker Barrel-inspired dining experience.
Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Cracker Barrel Grilled Chicken Tenders
Creating Cracker Barrel Grilled Chicken Tenders is easier than you might think.
With just a few simple steps, you can have juicy, flavorful chicken tenders that taste just like the ones from your favorite restaurant.
Let’s break down the process:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Tenders
Start by cleaning the chicken tenders. If there’s any visible fat or tendons, trim them away for a smoother texture.
Once cleaned, pat the chicken dry with paper towels.
This ensures the marinade will stick better and the chicken won’t be too watery when it hits the grill.
Step 2: Make the Marinade
In a small bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Whisk these ingredients together until fully blended.
The olive oil creates a rich base, while the lemon juice adds that zesty kick.
The garlic and onion powders bring savory notes, and the smoked paprika gives that signature smoky flavor.
Step 3: Marinate the Chicken
Place the chicken tenders in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag.
Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
Seal the bag or cover the dish, and let the chicken marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.
For deeper flavor, you can let it marinate for up to 2 hours.
The longer it marinates, the more flavorful your chicken will be.
Step 4: Preheat the Grill
While the chicken is marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
You want the grill to be hot enough to sear the chicken and create those beautiful grill marks, but not so hot that it burns the chicken before it cooks through.
If you don’t have an outdoor grill, you can use a grill pan or broiler in the oven.
Step 5: Grill the Chicken Tenders
Once the grill is preheated, carefully place the chicken tenders on the grill grates. Grill them for about 4-5 minutes on each side.
The key is to avoid overcooking the chicken, as tenders can dry out quickly.
Flip them halfway through cooking to ensure even grilling.
You’ll know they’re done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F, and the juices run clear.
If you’re unsure, you can cut into the thickest part of the tender to check for doneness.
Step 6: Let the Chicken Rest
Once grilled to perfection, remove the chicken tenders from the grill and let them rest for 3-5 minutes.
This step is crucial, as it allows the juices to redistribute inside the meat, ensuring tender and juicy chicken with every bite.
Step 7: Slice and Serve
After resting, slice the chicken tenders against the grain to ensure maximum tenderness.
Now your chicken tenders are ready to serve!
Serving Suggestions for Cracker Barrel Grilled Chicken Tenders
While Cracker Barrel Grilled Chicken Tenders are flavorful and satisfying on their own, they can be paired with various sides and sauces to make a complete meal.
Here are a few ideas for serving these delicious tenders:
Pair with Classic Sides
Grilled chicken tenders are incredibly versatile and can be served with many classic sides.
For a traditional meal, consider pairing them with mashed potatoes, either with a savory brown gravy or a creamy butter sauce.
Roasted vegetables, like carrots, green beans, or broccoli, add a nutritious and colorful touch to your plate.
You can also serve them with a simple garden salad topped with fresh greens, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette dressing.
Serve with Dipping Sauces
One of the best things about grilled chicken tenders is that they’re perfect for dipping.
Cracker Barrel’s grilled chicken tenders go wonderfully with a variety of sauces.
Serve them with tangy honey mustard, smoky barbecue sauce, or a creamy ranch dressing.
These sauces will complement the smoky flavor of the grilled chicken and enhance the overall taste experience.
Add a Side of Rice or Quinoa
For a lighter option, serve the chicken tenders over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa.
Both of these options are great at soaking up the flavors of the marinade and add a wholesome element to the meal.
You can even add some chopped herbs, like parsley or cilantro, to the rice for extra freshness.
Make a Chicken Tender Salad
If you’re looking to create a healthier, lighter meal, consider turning your grilled chicken tenders into a salad.
Slice the tenders and serve them on top of a bed of mixed greens, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and avocado.
Drizzle with your favorite dressing, or keep it simple with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a dash of olive oil for a light and refreshing dish.
Serve as a Sandwich or Wrap
For a quick and easy meal, you can serve the grilled chicken tenders in a sandwich or wrap.
Use soft, toasted buns or a tortilla and load it with fresh veggies like lettuce, tomato, and onion.
Add a drizzle of your favorite sauce for extra flavor.
This is a great option for lunch or a casual dinner.
These serving suggestions are just the beginning.
Feel free to get creative and pair these flavorful chicken tenders with whatever sides or toppings you enjoy most!
Tips for the Perfect Cracker Barrel Grilled Chicken Tenders
Achieving perfectly grilled chicken tenders takes a bit of practice, but with these helpful tips, you’ll be well on your way to replicating the juicy, flavorful tenders Cracker Barrel is known for.
1. Use Fresh, High-Quality Chicken
For the best flavor and texture, always opt for fresh, boneless, skinless chicken tenders. Fresh chicken cooks more evenly, and its natural tenderness helps create a juicy result. Avoid using frozen tenders if you can, as they tend to lose moisture during thawing, which can affect the final texture.
2. Don’t Skip the Marinade
The marinade is essential for infusing the chicken with flavor and moisture.
Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes, but if you have the time, let it sit in the marinade for 1 to 2 hours.
This extra time will result in a more flavorful and tender piece of chicken. You can even marinate the chicken overnight for maximum flavor.
3. Preheat Your Grill Properly
Getting your grill to the right temperature is crucial.
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (around 375°F to 400°F) before adding the chicken.
A properly heated grill ensures a nice sear and those perfect grill marks while preventing the chicken from sticking to the grates.
4. Don’t Overcook the Chicken
Chicken tenders are quick to cook, and overcooking them can lead to dry, tough meat.
Grill the chicken tenders for about 4-5 minutes per side, depending on their thickness.
Always check the internal temperature—once it reaches 165°F, the chicken is done.
If you don’t have a meat thermometer, cut into the thickest part of the tender to ensure it’s no longer pink.
5. Rest the Chicken After Grilling
After you remove the chicken tenders from the grill, let them rest for 3-5 minutes before slicing.
Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the chicken, ensuring each bite is juicy and tender.
Cutting into the chicken too soon can cause it to lose those precious juices, making it dry.
6. Grill in Batches for Even Cooking
If you have a lot of chicken tenders to cook, don’t overcrowd the grill.
Overcrowding can lower the grill’s temperature, causing the chicken to cook unevenly.
Grill in smaller batches to ensure each piece gets a proper sear and cooks through evenly.
7. Experiment with Different Marinade Flavors
While the traditional marinade for Cracker Barrel’s grilled chicken tenders is simple, you can experiment with different flavors to make it your own.
Try adding a touch of honey for sweetness, a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat, or a splash of soy sauce for added depth.
Customizing the marinade is a great way to tailor the flavors to your taste.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
While making grilled chicken tenders is simple, there are some common mistakes that can affect the outcome.
Avoid these errors to ensure you get the best possible results.
1. Marinating for Too Short a Time
One of the biggest mistakes people make is not marinating the chicken long enough.
While you might be tempted to just throw the chicken in the marinade for a few minutes, that won’t give the flavors enough time to penetrate the meat.
Marinate your chicken for at least 30 minutes, but if possible, aim for 1 to 2 hours.
This helps tenderize the chicken and adds flavor.
2. Using the Wrong Grill Temperature
Grilling at too high or too low a temperature can lead to issues with your chicken tenders.
If the grill is too hot, the chicken will burn on the outside before cooking through on the inside.
If it’s too low, the chicken will dry out before achieving that perfect sear.
Aim for a medium-high heat, ensuring you get those flavorful grill marks without drying out the meat.
3. Not Checking the Chicken’s Internal Temperature
Another common mistake is assuming the chicken is done based on cooking time alone.
Chicken can vary in thickness, and factors like grill type and outside temperature can affect cooking time.
Always check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches 165°F.
This guarantees safety and that the chicken is perfectly cooked.
4. Skipping the Resting Period
Many people are eager to eat after grilling, but cutting into the chicken too soon can result in a dry, less flavorful meal.
Let your chicken tenders rest for a few minutes after grilling to allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
Skipping this step leads to dry, unappetizing tenders.
5. Overcrowding the Grill
It might be tempting to throw all the chicken tenders on the grill at once, but overcrowding can lower the grill’s temperature, preventing the chicken from cooking evenly.
Give the tenders space to cook properly by grilling in smaller batches. T
his ensures that each piece gets the ideal sear and is cooked through perfectly.
6. Not Slicing Against the Grain
If you decide to slice your grilled chicken tenders before serving, make sure to slice against the grain.
Slicing along the grain can result in tough, chewy pieces of chicken.
Cutting against the grain ensures a tender, easy-to-eat texture with each bite.
7. Using Low-Quality Chicken
Not all chicken is created equal. While boneless, skinless chicken tenders are ideal for this recipe, make sure you’re using high-quality chicken.
Opt for fresh, organic chicken if possible, as it tends to have a better texture and flavor than factory-farmed options.
Avoid pre-frozen chicken tenders as they often lack flavor and moisture.
By keeping these tips and common mistakes in mind, you’ll ensure that your Cracker Barrel Grilled Chicken Tenders come out perfectly every time!
Nutrition Information
Cracker Barrel Grilled Chicken Tenders are a delicious, healthy option for those looking for a flavorful yet light meal.
Here’s a breakdown of the key nutrition facts, so you can enjoy this dish guilt-free:
Calories and Macronutrients (per serving)
- Calories: Approximately 220-250 kcal per serving (based on 4-6 tenders)
- Protein: 40-45g of high-quality protein (chicken is an excellent source of lean protein)
- Fat: 10-12g (mainly from olive oil, which provides healthy fats)
- Carbohydrates: 1-3g (this dish is low in carbs, making it a great option for low-carb diets)
- Fiber: 0g (as it’s a meat-based dish, there’s no fiber content)
- Sugar: 1g (coming from the natural sugars in lemon juice)
Health Benefits
- High in Protein: This recipe provides a high protein content, making it great for muscle repair and satiety.
- Low in Carbs: With minimal carbohydrates, these grilled chicken tenders can fit perfectly into low-carb or keto diets.
- Healthy Fats: Olive oil provides healthy monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health.
- Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with dietary restrictions or sensitivities.
Customizing for Different Diets
- Lower-Calorie Option: You can reduce the amount of olive oil in the marinade to cut down on fat if you’re aiming for a lower-calorie dish.
- Add Vegetables for Extra Nutrients: Serving the chicken with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad adds fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
Conclusion
Cracker Barrel Grilled Chicken Tenders bring a delightful balance of smoky flavors and tender texture, and making them at home is easier than ever.
With simple ingredients, quick grilling steps, and versatile serving options, this recipe is a must-try for anyone craving a hearty yet healthy meal.
Whether you enjoy them on their own, paired with your favorite sides, or added to a fresh salad, these grilled tenders are a crowd-pleaser.
Not only are they full of flavor, but they’re also customizable to suit your personal taste and dietary preferences.
So fire up your grill, follow the steps, and enjoy a delicious meal that rivals anything you’d get at Cracker Barrel.
You can easily recreate this delicious comfort food at home with a few simple ingredients!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?
Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts for tenders.
Just be sure to adjust the cooking time since chicken breasts are typically thicker than tenders.
If using chicken breasts, slice them into smaller, thinner pieces to ensure even cooking.
2. Can I marinate the chicken overnight?
Absolutely! Marinating the chicken overnight will allow the flavors to really soak in, making the chicken even more flavorful and tender.
Just make sure you keep it in the refrigerator to prevent any food safety issues.
3. Can I make this recipe without a grill?
Yes! If you don’t have a grill, you can easily make this recipe on a grill pan or in a broiler.
Simply preheat your grill pan over medium-high heat, or use your oven’s broiler function for a similar smoky effect.
4. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover grilled chicken tenders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat them in the microwave or on a grill pan to maintain their juiciness.
You can also freeze the chicken for up to 3 months if you want to keep them for longer.
5. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The best way to ensure your chicken is fully cooked is to use a meat thermometer.
The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
Alternatively, you can cut into the thickest part of the chicken, and the juices should run clear with no pink meat inside.
Cracker Barrel Grilled Chicken Tenders
Equipment
- Grill – 1 (medium-high heat)
- Small bowl – 1 (for making marinade)
- Whisk – 1 (for mixing marinade ingredients)
- Meat thermometer – 1 (optional, to check chicken’s internal temperature)
- Tongs – 1 (for flipping the chicken on the grill)
Ingredients
- 1 lb 450g – Boneless, skinless chicken tenders
- 2 tbsp – Olive oil
- 2 tbsp – Lemon juice freshly squeezed
- 1 tsp – Garlic powder
- 1 tsp – Onion powder
- 1 tsp – Smoked paprika
- ½ tsp – Salt
- ¼ tsp – Black pepper
- Fresh parsley optional – For garnish
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken:
- Clean the chicken tenders by removing any excess fat or tendons. Pat them dry with paper towels.
Make the Marinade:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
Marinate the Chicken:
- Place the chicken tenders in a shallow dish or resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours).
Preheat the Grill:
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (around 375°F to 400°F).
Grill the Chicken:
- Place the chicken tenders on the grill and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Flip the tenders halfway through grilling for even cooking.
Rest the Chicken:
- After grilling, remove the chicken tenders from the grill and let them rest for 3-5 minutes.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Slice the chicken tenders against the grain, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve with your favorite sides.
Notes
- Marinate Longer for More Flavor: For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for 1-2 hours. If you’re short on time, 30 minutes is still effective.
- Grilling Alternatives: If you don’t have an outdoor grill, you can cook the tenders in a grill pan or under the broiler in your oven.
- Customize the Marinade: Feel free to add a touch of honey, mustard, or cayenne pepper to the marinade to adjust the flavor to your liking.
- Resting is Key: Always let the grilled chicken rest before cutting into it to ensure it stays juicy and tender.
