Try these Grilled Chicken Tenders for a healthier twist on a classic meal and snack!
Chicken tenders are a classic. You’ll find them on children’s menus, as well as on many appetizer and happy hour menus. Maybe you like to have them at home with your favorite dipping sauce. Traditional chicken tenders, breaded and fried, are delicious, but they don’t vibe with my healthy dietary needs. So, I had to devise a way to enjoy my chicken tenders without the caloric intake of deep-frying. I came up with this grilled chicken tenders recipe, and problem solved! They are a more wholesome alternative with a great flavor profile that checks all the boxes.
I know you are probably thinking there is no way that these grilled chicken tenders taste as good as their breaded, fried cousins, but these juicy and delicious tenders are zesty, savory, and have just a touch of sweetness. Unlike traditional breaded chicken tenders that you would normally enjoy with a dipping sauce of some kind, these grilled chicken tenders do not need a dipping sauce because they are so flavorful on their own. Of course, that does not mean a nice dipping sauce won’t heighten the flavor. It just isn’t a requirement.
Are Grilled Chicken Tenders Healthy?
As mentioned, these grilled chicken tenders are healthier than their traditional breaded and fried counterparts. Chicken tenders are lean cuts of meat that are high in protein as well as vitamins B3 and B6, iron, zinc, and other nutrients. Grilling the chicken tenders is healthier than frying. The marinade uses apple cider vinegar, honey as a natural sweetener, and a low-sodium soy sauce to limit salt intake.
Are Chicken Tenders And Chicken Fingers The Same Thing?
As a kid, when I would see chicken fingers on a menu, I found it hilarious. Chickens have wings, not hands, so they do not have fingers. Chicken fingers are, in fact, often the same thing as chicken tenders. Chicken tenders, or tenderloins, are the innermost part of the chicken breast muscle. They are loosely attached to the breast and contain a visible portion of the tendon, which resembles a string. Because of their long, slender shape, they are often referred to as fingers, which is how they acquired their name. However, some frozen chicken fingers or tenders are made from processed and reshaped chicken meat rather than whole chicken tenderloins.
How To Make Ahead And Store
Cool leftover grilled chicken and store for up to 4 days in the fridge. You can freeze them for up to 3 months.
Serving Suggestions
Chicken tenders make a great meal or even a snack on their own. I usually serve them with a side of Old-Fashioned Potato Salad or Southern Potato Salad. For dipping sauces, I recommend Yum Yum Sauce or some Easy Honey-Mustard Dipping Sauce. You can also serve them atop this Greek Chickpea Salad for some extra protein.
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 pound chicken tenders
- Vegetable oil for grilling
Instructions
- Whisk together water, soy sauce, vinegar, honey, pepper, and salt in a small bowl. Place the marinade in a resealable plastic bag.
- Add chicken to the marinade bag, seal, and ensure all pieces are well coated. Refrigerate to marinate for 30 minutes and up to 8 hours.
- Preheat grill to medium heat (375°F). Oil the grill and cook chicken tenders for 3-4 minutes on each side until fully cooked.
- Transfer cooked chicken tenders to a plate, cover with foil, and let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Nutrition Info:
Nutrition information are estimates only and may vary based on the specific brands, ingredients, and portion sizes you use. This data is provided for informational purposes only.
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