How To Make Quick & Easy Grilled Lemon Chicken Tenders

Craving a meal that’s bursting with flavor, incredibly easy to make, and ready in under 30 minutes? Then get ready to fall in love with these Quick Grilled Lemon Chicken Tenders! They’re juicy, zesty, and the perfect weeknight dinner solution.

Why You’ll Love It

• The bright, fresh lemon flavor perfectly complements the tender chicken.
• Ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Incredibly simple to make, even for beginner cooks.
• They’re versatile – perfect for salads, wraps, or served with your favorite sides.
• The beautiful grill marks make them look as good as they taste – definitely impressive!

What Makes This Recipe Unique?

This recipe stands out because of the quick marinade process. Instead of marinating for hours, we use a combination of fresh lemon juice, garlic, and just a touch of olive oil which quickly infuses the chicken with bright, vibrant flavor in as little as 15 minutes. The heat from the grill caramelizes the lemon and garlic giving them a slightly sweet and smoky flavor that truly elevates this simple dish. This technique results in incredibly flavorful chicken, without needing to plan ahead.

Ingredient List

• 1 lb chicken tenders
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice – the acidity helps to tenderize the chicken and infuses it with that bright lemon flavor.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, pepper, oregano, and paprika.
2. Add the chicken tenders to the bowl, ensuring they are fully coated in the marinade. Let it marinate at room temperature for at least 15 minutes.
3. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
4. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
5. Place the marinated chicken tenders on the grill.
6. Grill for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
7. Remove from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.

Optional Toppings/Variations

Want to add some extra flair? Try these topping ideas:

• A sprinkle of fresh parsley or cilantro before serving.
• A squeeze of extra lemon juice.
• A dollop of Greek yogurt or a drizzle of garlic aioli.

Expert Tips

• Don’t over-marinate the chicken, 15-30 minutes is enough to get the flavor without making the chicken mushy.
• Make sure your grill is preheated to prevent the chicken from sticking.
• Don’t overcrowd the grill; leave space between the chicken tenders for even cooking.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
• Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender meat.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?
  Yes, you can! Just cut the chicken breasts into strips similar to the size of tenders, and be sure to adjust cooking time if necessary.
• Can I make this recipe in the oven?
  Absolutely! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the marinated chicken tenders on a baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until cooked through.
• Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
  Yes, you can marinate the chicken ahead of time and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. However, it is best when grilled fresh.
• How long does leftover chicken keep?
  Store any leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Can I use dried lemon instead of fresh?
  While fresh lemon juice is ideal for the best flavor, you can substitute with 2 tablespoons of lemon juice from a bottle, but use less as the intensity will be higher.

Variations and Customization Options

Feel free to play around with these variations:

• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade for a spicy kick.
• Herbaceous Twist: Substitute the dried oregano with other herbs like thyme, rosemary, or basil.
• Mediterranean Flair: Add a teaspoon of sumac to the marinade for a tangy flavor and a sprinkle of feta cheese before serving.

Serving Suggestions

These Quick Grilled Lemon Chicken Tenders are incredibly versatile! Serve them in a fresh salad, tuck them into warm pita bread with hummus and veggies, or alongside a bed of fluffy rice and roasted vegetables. They’re also fantastic as part of a tapas spread or as a light, healthy appetizer. The possibilities are endless!

Conclusion

These Quick Grilled Lemon Chicken Tenders are a guaranteed hit – they’re packed with flavor, easy to prepare, and incredibly versatile. They’re perfect for a quick weeknight meal, a casual weekend gathering, or any time you’re craving a delicious and healthy option. So fire up the grill, get cooking, and be prepared to be wowed! Don’t forget to share your culinary creations on social media! We’d love to see them.