Craving those delicious grilled chicken tenders from Cracker Barrel? You’re not alone. Many people love that smoky flavor and tender texture but don’t want to make the trip every time.
Key Takeaways
- Ingredients Matter: Use high-quality, boneless chicken tenderloins, along with a marinade of olive oil, lemon juice, and spices for maximum flavor.
- Marination is Key: Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes (up to 2 hours) to maximize flavor and tenderness; avoid over-marinating.
- Proper Grilling Temperature: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (400°F to 450°F) for a perfect sear and cook the tenders until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Complementary Sides: Pair your chicken tenders with sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, or coleslaw to enhance the meal’s overall enjoyment.
- Dipping Sauces Elevate Flavor: Serve with a variety of dipping sauces, such as barbecue or honey mustard, to add an extra kick to your chicken tenders.
- Leftover Storage: Refrigerate leftover chicken tender pieces in an airtight container for up to 3 days and reheat properly to maintain tenderness.
Overview of Cracker Barrel Grilled Chicken Tenders
Cracker Barrel grilled chicken tenders feature a deliciously smoky flavor and are known for their tender, juicy texture. These chicken tenders draw many diners craving a satisfying meal. Making them at home allows you to enjoy this favorite dish without a trip to the restaurant.
Key Ingredients
- Chicken Tenders: Choose high-quality, boneless chicken tenderloins for the best results.
- Marinade: Use a blend of olive oil, lemon juice, and spices to add flavor.
- Seasoning: Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper for an extra touch.
Cooking Method
- Marinate the Chicken: Combine ingredients for the marinade. Coat the chicken tenders well and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes. This enhances the flavor.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your outdoor grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. This ensures a nice sear on the chicken.
- Grill the Tenders: Place the marinated chicken tenders on the grill. Cook for 6-8 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F. Ensure the outside is golden brown.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with Sides: Serve your grilled chicken tenders alongside mashed potatoes or green beans for a complete meal.
- Add Sauces: Offer barbecue sauce or honey mustard for dipping. This adds extra flavor and complements the dish.
- Refrigerate Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container. They last up to 3 days in the fridge.
- Reheat Properly: Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to maintain tenderness.
Opting for homemade Cracker Barrel grilled chicken tenders lets you savor this beloved dish anytime you like.
Ingredients Needed
To recreate Cracker Barrel’s grilled chicken tenders at home, gather these essential ingredients. They include fresh components for flavor and pantry staples for seasoning.
Fresh Ingredients
- Boneless Chicken Tenderloins: Choose high-quality, boneless chicken tenderloins for tenderness. A pound (16 ounces) typically serves four people.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice adds brightness. You’ll need about 2 tablespoons for marinating.
- Olive Oil: Use a good quality olive oil, around 3 tablespoons, to enhance the marinade’s richness.
- Garlic Cloves: Mince 2 to 3 garlic cloves for extra flavor in the marinade.
- Garlic Powder: This enhances the garlic flavor without overpowering. Use 1 teaspoon in the seasoning mix.
- Salt: Regular table salt or sea salt works well. About 1 teaspoon will season the chicken appropriately.
- Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds a spicy kick. Use ½ teaspoon for balance.
- Paprika: Sweet or smoked paprika gives color and flavor. Incorporate 1 teaspoon into the marinade.
- Honey: Optional, for sweetness. Add 1 teaspoon if you prefer a hint of sweetness in the chicken.
Gather these ingredients to ensure you create flavorful and tender grilled chicken tenders reminiscent of the beloved Cracker Barrel dish.
Preparation Steps
To create Cracker Barrel’s grilled chicken tenders, follow these key preparation steps for the best results. You’ll combine marinating techniques with effective grilling methods for a delicious dish.
Marinating the Chicken
- Combine Ingredients: In a bowl, mix ¼ cup olive oil, 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, and (if desired) 1 tablespoon honey for sweetness.
- Prepare the Chicken: Place 1 pound of boneless chicken tenderloins in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish.
- Add Marinade: Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are coated evenly. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap.
- Marinate: Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for enhanced flavor. Avoid marinating longer to prevent the chicken from becoming too soft.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high, around 400°F to 450°F, ensuring it’s properly prepared for even cooking.
- Oil the Grill Grate: Use a paper towel dipped in oil to lightly grease the grill grates to prevent sticking.
- Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, discarding the leftover marinade. Place the tenderloins on the grill.
- Cook Evenly: Grill each side for about 5 to 7 minutes. Check for an internal temperature of 165°F using a meat thermometer. Adjust cooking time if necessary.
- Rest the Chicken: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes. This allows juices to redistribute, enhancing tenderness.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your grilled chicken tenders with complementary sides and dipping sauces for a delicious meal. Strategic choices enhance the overall dining experience, making each bite more enjoyable.
Accompaniments
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes provide a classic comfort food pairing. Their rich flavor balances the smoky notes of the chicken.
- Green Beans: Steamed or sautéed green beans add a crunchy texture and fresh taste. Season them lightly with salt and pepper to enhance their natural flavor.
- Coleslaw: This tangy side dish contrasts nicely with the chicken. The crunchiness of the slaw adds variety to the meal.
- Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob offers sweetness and a satisfying bite. Brush it with butter and sprinkle with salt or chili powder for extra flavor.
- Biscuit: A fluffy biscuit makes for a delicious addition. Its buttery flavor complements the chicken and helps soak up any sauces.
- Use a Platter: Arrange the grilled chicken tenders on a large serving platter. This creates an inviting presentation that’s perfect for family meals or gatherings.
- Garnish with Herbs: Sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or thyme on top for a pop of color. This small touch adds visual appeal and freshness to the dish.
- Serve with Dipping Sauces: Provide a variety of dipping sauces, such as barbecue, honey mustard, or ranch. Place them in small bowls around the platter for easy access.
- Add Colorful Vegetables: Include colorful salads or roasted vegetables on the side. Their vibrant hues enhance the overall presentation and nutritional value of the meal.
- Keep It Simple: Don’t overcrowd the plate. Leave space around the food to allow the flavors to shine individually.
Conclusion
You’ve got everything you need to whip up Cracker Barrel’s delicious grilled chicken tenders right in your kitchen. With a few simple ingredients and steps you can enjoy that smoky flavor and tender texture whenever you want.
Don’t forget to pair your tenders with some tasty sides to elevate your meal. Whether it’s creamy mashed potatoes or tangy coleslaw you’ll create a feast that rivals any restaurant.
So fire up that grill and enjoy a comforting homemade meal that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Happy grilling!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Cracker Barrel’s grilled chicken tenders known for?
Cracker Barrel’s grilled chicken tenders are famous for their smoky flavor and tender texture, making them a favorite among diners. Many people crave these delicious tenders and look for ways to enjoy them at home.
How can I replicate Cracker Barrel’s grilled chicken tenders at home?
To make these tenders at home, you’ll need boneless chicken tenderloins, a marinade of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and spices, and essential seasonings like garlic powder and paprika. Follow the article’s detailed preparation steps to achieve the best results.
What ingredients do I need for the marinade?
The marinade includes high-quality olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, minced garlic cloves, garlic powder, salt, freshly ground black pepper, smoked paprika, and optional honey for added sweetness.
How long should I marinate the chicken for the best flavor?
For optimal flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to penetrate the chicken tenderloins, resulting in a more delicious outcome.
What is the ideal grilling temperature for chicken tenders?
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, typically around 375°F to 450°F. This ensures even cooking and helps achieve a nice char without drying out the chicken.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The internal temperature of the chicken tenders should reach 165°F. Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature, ensuring the chicken is safe to eat and cooked through.
What should I serve with grilled chicken tenders?
Complement your grilled chicken tenders with sides like creamy mashed potatoes, crispy green beans, tangy coleslaw, sweet corn on the cob, and fluffy biscuits for a well-rounded meal.
Can I store and reheat leftovers?
Yes, you can store leftover grilled chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave until they are warmed through for best results.
