Description
This Lemon Garlic Marinated Chicken Tenders recipe features tender, boneless chicken marinated in a zesty blend of lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, and Italian herbs. Perfectly grilled to create a juicy and flavorful dish, it’s a quick and healthy meal option that’s ideal for a weeknight dinner or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken tenders
Marinade
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning (dried, or equal parts garlic powder, dried basil, and dried oregano)
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
Instructions
- Prepare Marinade: In a resealable gallon-sized freezer bag, combine olive oil, Italian seasoning, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, honey, salt, and pepper. Seal the bag and shake vigorously to blend all marinade ingredients well.
- Marinate Chicken: Add the chicken tenders to the bag with the marinade, seal again, and massage the chicken around to ensure it is evenly coated. Refrigerate and let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 8 hours for maximum flavor infusion.
- Preheat Grill: Heat a grill or an indoor grill pan over medium-high heat, ensuring it is properly hot before adding the chicken. This will help achieve beautiful grill marks and a juicy interior.
- Cook Chicken: Place the marinated chicken tenders on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until fully cooked through and no longer pink in the center. Use a meat thermometer to confirm an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.
- Serve: Remove the chicken from the grill, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a fresh herbal note, and serve immediately. This pairs wonderfully with a light salad or grilled vegetables.
Notes
- Marinating the chicken overnight will deepen the flavors even more, but a minimum of 30 minutes is sufficient.
- For a spicier kick, consider adding red pepper flakes to the marinade.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is safely cooked to 165°F (74°C).
- If you don’t have a grill, you can cook the chicken tenders in a skillet over medium-high heat, turning them similarly.
- Lemon zest adds bright flavor—avoid the white pith as it’s bitter.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
