Lemon Rosemary Grilled Chicken Tenders are a delightful and quick meal option that cooks up in under 10 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings, this dish combines the bright flavors of lemon with the aromatic touch of rosemary, making it a standout choice for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or preparing a family dinner, these chicken tenders are sure to impress with their juicy texture and vibrant taste.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Cooking Time: Enjoy grilled chicken in just 10 minutes without sacrificing flavor.
- Healthy Ingredients: Made with fresh herbs and wholesome ingredients, this recipe is both nutritious and delicious.
- Versatile Dish: Perfect for any meal—serve it with salads, rice, or as a sandwich filling.
- Easy Preparation: Minimal prep work means you can spend more time enjoying your meal and less time in the kitchen.
- Flavorful Marinade: The honey-lemon marinade infuses the chicken with a sweet and tangy taste that everyone will love.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools on hand makes cooking Lemon Rosemary Grilled Chicken Tenders easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you need to get started.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Grill
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Zip-top bag or dish
Importance of Each Tool
- Grill: Provides even heat for perfectly cooked chicken tenders with those beautiful grill marks.
- Mixing Bowl: Essential for combining the marinade ingredients evenly, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
- Whisk: Helps blend oils, acids, and seasonings thoroughly for a smooth marinade.
- Zip-Top Bag or Dish: Ideal for marinating the chicken while allowing easy access to flip it over.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Tenders
- 12 Chicken Breast Tenderloins
- 4 Tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1/3 cup honey
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon rosemary
- 1/4 cup fresh basil
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
How to Make Lemon Rosemary Grilled Chicken Tenders
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
Using a small bowl, whisk together:
* 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
* 1/4 cup lemon juice
* 1/3 cup honey
* 3 cloves garlic, minced
* 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
* 1/4 teaspoon rosemary
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Place tenderloins in a dish or zip-top bag:
1. Pour marinade over chicken.
2. Reserve a few tablespoons for basting later.
3. Refrigerate for 30 minutes or up to 6 hours for best results.
Step 3: Heat the Grill
Preheat your grill to medium indirect heat. Make sure it’s ready before adding your chicken.
Step 4: Grill the Chicken Tenders
Add the marinated chicken to the grill:
1. Cook for 2-3 minutes on one side.
2. Flip and baste with reserved marinade.
3. Cook an additional 2-3 minutes until fully cooked.
Step 5: Rest Before Serving
Remove chicken from grill and tent with foil:
1. Let rest for 3-5 minutes before serving to retain moisture.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Top your grilled chicken tenders with:
* A sprinkle of fresh basil when serving.
Enjoy these tasty Lemon Rosemary Grilled Chicken Tenders at your next meal!
How to Serve Lemon Rosemary Grilled Chicken Tenders
Serving Lemon Rosemary Grilled Chicken Tenders is all about enhancing their bright flavors and keeping the meal satisfying. With the right accompaniments, you can create a delightful dining experience that everyone will enjoy.
Pair with Fresh Salads
- Greek Salad: Combine cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta for a refreshing complement.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce and creamy dressing pair perfectly with the grilled chicken.
Add Flavorful Dips
- Tzatziki Sauce: This yogurt-based dip adds a cool contrast to the chicken’s flavors.
- Honey Mustard Dip: A sweet and tangy option that enhances the honey notes in the marinade.
Serve with Grains
- Quinoa Pilaf: Nutty quinoa mixed with herbs makes for a hearty side.
- Couscous: Light and fluffy couscous complements the dish nicely without overpowering it.
How to Perfect Lemon Rosemary Grilled Chicken Tenders
To achieve perfect Lemon Rosemary Grilled Chicken Tenders, focus on marinating and cooking techniques. These tips will help elevate your dish even further.
- Bold Marinade Time: Marinate for at least 30 minutes but up to 6 hours to maximize flavor absorption.
- Bold Grill Temperature: Ensure your grill is preheated to medium indirect heat for even cooking.
- Bold Basting Technique: Baste the chicken during grilling to keep it moist and flavorful.
- Bold Let It Rest: Tent the grilled tenders with foil for a few minutes before serving to lock in juices.
- Bold Fresh Herbs: Top with fresh basil or additional rosemary just before serving for vibrant flavor.
Best Side Dishes for Lemon Rosemary Grilled Chicken Tenders
Choosing the right side dishes can enhance your meal featuring Lemon Rosemary Grilled Chicken Tenders. Here are some delicious options that pair wonderfully.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes infused with garlic provide a comforting side.
- Roasted Vegetables: A colorful mix of seasonal veggies adds nutrition and flavor.
- Steamed Asparagus: Tender asparagus drizzled with lemon juice complements the chicken’s zestiness.
- Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice cooked with herbs offers a subtle backdrop for bold flavors.
- Coleslaw: A crunchy slaw brings texture and a bit of sweetness to balance the dish.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: Smoky corn pairs beautifully with herb-marinated chicken.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Cooking Lemon Rosemary Grilled Chicken Tenders can be a breeze, but there are some common mistakes to avoid for the best results.
- Skipping the Marinade Time: Not allowing enough time for marinating can lead to bland chicken. Aim for at least 30 minutes, but let it sit for up to 6 hours for maximum flavor.
- Using High Heat: Cooking on high heat can cause the chicken to burn on the outside while remaining raw inside. Stick to medium indirect heat for even cooking.
- Not Basting: Forgetting to baste your chicken with the marinade can result in dry meat. Baste during grilling to keep it juicy and flavorful.
- Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking too long can make your tenders tough. Use a meat thermometer; chicken should reach 165°F (75°C) internally.
- Neglecting Fresh Herbs: Using dried herbs instead of fresh ones can result in less vibrant flavors. When possible, opt for fresh rosemary and basil for added freshness.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store any leftover Lemon Rosemary Grilled Chicken Tenders in an airtight container.
- They can last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Lemon Rosemary Grilled Chicken Tenders
- Freeze grilled chicken tenders in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- They will stay fresh for up to 3 months when properly stored.
Reheating Lemon Rosemary Grilled Chicken Tenders
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals until hot.
- Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil, and warm the chicken, flipping occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make Lemon Rosemary Grilled Chicken Tenders more flavorful?
You can enhance the flavor by adding more garlic or using fresh herbs like thyme or parsley along with rosemary.
Can I use other cuts of chicken instead of tenders?
Yes! You can use boneless chicken breasts or thighs. Just adjust cooking times as necessary based on thickness.
What goes well with Lemon Rosemary Grilled Chicken Tenders?
These tenders pair well with grilled vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
How do I ensure my grilled chicken is juicy?
Marinating your chicken is key! Also, avoid overcooking by using a meat thermometer to check doneness.
Can I prepare the marinade ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the marinade a day in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to marinate your chicken.
Final Thoughts
Lemon Rosemary Grilled Chicken Tenders are not only quick and easy but also packed with flavor. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite herbs or spices to suit your taste! Enjoy these delicious tenders with various sides or toss them into salads for an extra protein boost.
Lemon Rosemary Grilled Chicken Tenders
Lemon Rosemary Grilled Chicken Tenders are a flavorful and quick meal that can be prepared in under 10 minutes, making them perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings. The bright, zesty flavors of lemon combined with the aromatic touch of rosemary create a delightful dish that is not only delicious but also healthy. These juicy chicken tenders can be served alongside fresh salads, grains, or even as a sandwich filling, making them an incredibly versatile option for any occasion. With minimal prep work and a tantalizing honey-lemon marinade, this recipe will surely impress your family and friends.
- Total Time: 16 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients
- 12 chicken breast tenderloins
- 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1/3 cup honey
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon rosemary
- Fresh basil and parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the marinade by whisking together olive oil, lemon juice, honey, minced garlic, oregano, and rosemary.
- Marinate the chicken tenderloins in the mixture for at least 30 minutes (up to 6 hours).
- Preheat the grill to medium indirect heat.
- Grill the chicken tenders for 2–3 minutes on each side, basting with reserved marinade until fully cooked.
- Let the chicken rest for 3–5 minutes before serving and garnish with fresh herbs.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 chicken tenders (120g)
- Calories: 270
- Sugar: 13g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 31g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: For extra flavor, add more garlic or combine different fresh herbs like thyme or parsley. If you prefer other cuts of chicken, boneless breasts or thighs work well; adjust cooking times accordingly.