These Cracker Barrel Chicken Tenders make for a quick and delicious meal. These juicy chicken tenderloins are marinated in a honey and Italian dressing and then grilled to golden brown perfection. Plus, you don't even need to leave the house!
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Cracker Barrel Chicken
- They're packed with flavor thanks to the sweet and tangy marinade and taste just like this favorite menu item at the old country store.
- This easy copycat recipe is super easy to make with just a handful of simple ingredients; no expensive trips to the grocery store are needed.
- It's a healthier option compared to fried chicken strips but just as tasty! And the whole family will love them!
With just a little prep time, you can recreate this copycat chicken tenderloins recipe right in your kitchen. It's sure to become a go-to recipe that everyone will love!
Ingredients you'll need
Note: This is an overview of the ingredients. You'll find the full measurements and instructions in the recipe card (printable) at the bottom of the page.
Ingredient notes
- Chicken tenderloins - Make sure to use tenderloins instead of chicken breast. I've found that they are juicy and give you a more tender result.
- Italian dressing - This is the secret ingredient that gives these chicken tenders their unique and delicious flavor. You can use store-bought or homemade dressing.
- Garlic clove - Fresh garlic adds a nice kick of flavor, but you can also substitute with garlic powder if needed.
- Lime juice - This adds a nice tang to the marinade and helps to tenderize the chicken. Fresh lime juice gives a great flavor. However, bottled will work in a pinch.
- Honey - The honey in the marinade adds a touch of sweetness and helps create that perfect glaze on the chicken.
- Lime zest - Lime zest is optional. However, it adds a nice pop of citrus flavor.
- Salt - Salt is also optional but can enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
Cracker Barrel Tenders
Ingredients
- 2 pounds chicken tenders
For the marinade:
- 1 cup Italian dressing
- 3 garlic clove minced about 1 ¼ teaspoon
- 2 Tablespoon lime juice juice of one lime
- 2 Tablespoon honey
Optional
- Zest of one lime about 1 ½ teaspoon
- Salt to your liking
Instructions
- In a medium bowl combine marinade ingredients with lime zest or salt if using.
- Add chicken tenders and mix well to coat.
- Marinate chicken for an hour and up to 24 hours.
- Preheat a grilling pan on the stove or an outdoor grill.
- Grill chicken for 2 minutes on each side or until fully cooked.
- Take chicken out and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Nutrition
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Adaptable recipe – make it your own!
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce to the marinade for a spicy twist.
- Throw in a dash of smoked paprika or liquid smoke to add some barbecue vibes.
- Not a fan of lime? Swap it out with lemon juice or orange juice for a slightly different citrusy zing.
Step by step: instructions
Note: This is an overview of the instructions. The detailed instructions are in the recipe card below.
- Add the garlic, honey, lime juice, and lime zest to a bowl.
- Then add in the Italian dressing. Mix until combined.
- Add chicken tenders and mix well to coat. Marinate for at least one hour in the fridge.
- Grill chicken on a preheated grill for 2 minutes on each side or until fully cooked.
Your questions answered: FAQs
For the best flavor, it’s recommended to marinate the chicken for at least one hour. If you have more time, letting it marinate for up to 8 hours can really enhance the taste as the chicken absorbs more of the delicious marinade.
Absolutely! If you don’t have a grill, you can cook the chicken in a grill pan or a large skillet on medium-high heat on your stovetop.
Yes, you can! While chicken tenders are quick and easy to cook, you can use any type of chicken, such as chicken breasts, thighs, or even drumsticks. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time depending on the cut and thickness of the chicken to ensure it's cooked through properly.
My notes
- Don’t skip the marinade time! The longer the chicken marinates, the more flavorful it will be.
- I like to cover the bowl with plastic wrap and keep it in the fridge while the chicken tenders marinate.
- Preheat your grill or pan. A hot surface ensures you get a nice sear and crust on each grilled chicken tenderloin.
- Use a meat thermometer. For perfectly cooked chicken, the internal temperature should reach 165°F.
Storage and reheating
Refrigerate - Store leftover chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Freeze - You can also freeze this chicken in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw before reheating.
Reheat - To reheat, either microwave until warm or place the chicken on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for about 10 minutes. You can also reheat in a skillet on the stovetop for a couple of minutes on each side.
Make Ahead
If you want to save a little time on a busy weeknight, prep and marinate the chicken the night before so that when you get home from work, you can just grill the chicken and enjoy it.
Perfect pairings: what to serve with
There are so many great options to pair with these copycat cracker barrel grilled chicken tenders. Some of our favorite sides are Gouda Mac and Cheese, Mediterranean Green Beans, a simple side salad, and these Buttermilk Herb Biscuits. All of these recipes are family-friendly and super tasty!
You'll also like
Do you love Cracker Barrel as much as my family does? If so, you are going to want to add this Cracker Barrel Chicken and Rice, Cracker Barrel Meatloaf, and Cracker Barrel Sweet Potatoes to your meal plan next time.
Also, if you’re considering this recipe for a BBQ feast, Here is my favorite Shish Kebab recipe for a restaurant quality recipe right at home.
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