Cracker Barrel Grilled Chicken Tenders bring a taste of classic Southern comfort straight to your kitchen. If you’ve ever sat down to a hearty meal at Cracker Barrel, you know their grilled chicken tenders combine simplicity and rich flavor. This comprehensive recipe not only captures the signature sweetness and tang you love but also ensures tender, juicy chicken every time. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal-prepping for yourself, this guide covers every detail, from selecting the right ingredients to serving with perfectly paired sides.
The Appeal of Grilled Chicken Tenders
Chicken tenders are a staple on Southern menus for a good reason. They’re versatile, easy to cook, and generally a hit with all ages. At Cracker Barrel, tenders are marinated and grilled until sticky, caramelized, and golden. The result is chicken that’s loaded with flavor with each bite, making them a favorite whether you’re after a quick dinner or something special for gatherings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Creating authentic-tasting Cracker Barrel grilled chicken tenders doesn’t mean you need a long grocery list. Most items are pantry basics, yet when combined, they transform simple chicken into a crave-worthy dish.
Ingredients Table
| Ingredient | Purpose | Tips for Selection |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken tenders | Juicy, quick-cooking protein | Fresh or thawed, uniform size if possible |
| Italian dressing | Herbaceous, tangy base for marinade | Bottled or homemade |
| Honey | Adds sweetness, helps glaze caramelize | Pure honey for richest flavor |
| Fresh lime juice | Bright, zesty counter to honey and dressing | Use freshly squeezed for best taste |
Why Chicken Tenders Over Breast?
Tenders are actually a distinct muscle located just beneath the chicken breast. They’re thinner, more delicate, and cook faster than breast meat. The result: a juicy texture that soaks up marinade and stays tender after grilling.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Even with minimal prep, these grilled chicken tenders deliver maximum flavor. Here’s how to replicate that iconic Cracker Barrel experience in your own kitchen.
1. Make the Marinade
In a medium bowl, whisk together:
– 1 cup Italian dressing
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
The Italian dressing brings herbs and tang, honey provides sweetness, and lime juice delivers a touch of brightness to balance everything. Mixing the marinade well ensures even flavor.
2. Marinate the Chicken
Add 1 pound of chicken tenders to the bowl. Use tongs or clean hands to toss so that all pieces are evenly coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 1 to 3 hours.
Tip: Don’t marinate longer than 3 hours. The acid in lime juice can break down the meat too much, leaving it mushy.
3. Heat the Grill or Skillet
Preheat your grill to medium heat (about 375°F). No grill? Use a grill pan or a nonstick skillet on the stove.
If you love grill marks and smoky flavor, outdoor grilling is ideal. For ease and convenience, an indoor grill pan works beautifully.
4. Grill the Tenders
Remove the chicken from the marinade (discard any leftover marinade). Place tenders onto the grill.
- Grill uncovered for 3–4 minutes per side.
- Flip only once to prevent tearing.
- Use a meat thermometer for safety. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
If you’re using a skillet: Sauté the tenders for about 3 minutes per side. Add any reserved (unused) marinade and let it cook down until sticky.
5. Serve
Rest the grilled chicken tenders for 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping every bite moist. Serve warm.
Tips for the Best Chicken Tenders
Great chicken tenders come down to details. Here’s how to ensure yours hit the mark every time.
- Uniform pieces: Choose tenders of similar size for even cooking.
- Don’t overcrowd the grill: Leave space between pieces so steam can escape and caramelization can occur.
- Let the grill or pan preheat: A hot surface ensures you get those classic char marks.
- Use fresh lime juice: Bottled juice works, but fresh has a brighter, cleaner flavor.
- Dry exterior: Pat tenders dry before marinating to help the marinade cling.
Variations and Substitutions
This recipe is flexible. Adapt it to your dietary needs or what you have on hand.
- For extra tang: Add 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard to the marinade.
- Lower sugar: Reduce honey to 2 tablespoons for a less sweet version.
- Herb lovers: Stir in fresh chopped parsley or basil to the finished chicken.
Chicken Tenders vs. Chicken Breast
It’s easy to confuse chicken tenders with sliced breast, but they differ in both texture and flavor absorption. Tenders remain juicier, especially with grilling’s high heat. If you must substitute, slice breasts into long strips for even cooking, but know the result may be a bit firmer.
Quick Comparison Table
| Feature | Chicken Tenders | Chicken Breast |
|---|---|---|
| Cooking Time | 6–8 minutes | 10–12 minutes (strips) |
| Texture | Softer, juicier | Denser, may dry if overcooked |
| Flavor Absorption | Excellent | Good, but less than tenders |
What to Serve With Grilled Chicken Tenders
A full meal needs more than just tender chicken. Here’s how to round out your plate:
- Carbohydrate Sides: Serve with mashed potatoes, steamed rice, or buttered noodles.
- Vegetable Options: Try roasted carrots, sautéed green beans, coleslaw, or a green salad with vinaigrette.
- Bread: Warm biscuits or cornbread echo Southern comfort.
- Sauces for Dipping: Classic ketchup and barbecue sauce work, but honey mustard or ranch dressing add another layer of flavor.
- Fresh Touch: A sprinkle of chopped chives or parsley makes the dish pop.
Storing and Reusing Leftovers
Store extra grilled chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They reheat well and can be enjoyed cold or warmed up.
Ideas for Leftovers:
– Slice for sandwich filling or wrap.
– Add to a grain bowl with veggies.
– Toss into pasta with a little olive oil.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bake instead of grill?
Yes. Place marinated chicken tenders on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 400°F for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway.
Can I freeze cooked tenders?
Absolutely. Cool completely, arrange in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a zip-top bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat in the oven for best texture.
What if I don’t have Italian dressing?
Blend olive oil with red wine vinegar, dried Italian herbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Use in equal amounts.
Bringing It All Together
Grilled chicken tenders in the Cracker Barrel style make for an effortless meal packed with flavor and comfort. The magic comes from a well-balanced marinade and the quick grilling process that locks in natural juices. Serve them alongside your favorite Southern sides, or tuck them into wraps for weeknight lunches. However you enjoy them, go ahead and make this dish part of your regular rotation–it has all the charm and taste of dining out, with the ease and value of eating at home.
Cracker Barrel Grilled Chicken Tenders
Bring Cracker Barrel into your very own kitchen. Enjoy these Grilled Chicken Tenders!
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon fresh lime juice
- 1/2 cup Italian dressing
- 1 1/2 teaspoons honey
- 1 pound chicken tenders
Instructions
- Stir together Italian dressing, lime juice, and honey in a large bowl.
- Add chicken tenders and toss until completely coated. Cover bowl in plastic wrap and marinate in the fridge for 1 to 3 hours.
- Place chicken in a greased skillet or grill over medium heat. Cook uncovered until golden brown, about 3 to 4 minutes per side. You can use a meat thermometer to ensure doneness. It should be at 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Note: You can also cook the chicken in a pan with the sauce for a thicker glaze. Here's how: Sear the chicken for 2-3 minutes per side, then add the marinade. Cook for 5-10 minutes or until the marinade has reduced into a thick, caramelized glaze.