Grilled Honey Mustard Chicken Tenders

Short Description

Grilled Honey Mustard Chicken Tenders offer a delightful combination of sweet and tangy flavors, making them a perfect choice for both casual weeknight dinners and special gatherings. The succulent chicken tenders are marinated in a rich honey mustard sauce, then grilled to perfection, resulting in a dish that’s both flavorful and satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy Preparation: With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for busy individuals seeking a delicious meal without extensive prep time.
• Versatile Serving Options: These chicken tenders can be enjoyed on their own, added to salads, wrapped in tortillas, or paired with your favorite sides.
• Family-Friendly Flavor: The balanced sweetness of honey combined with the tanginess of mustard creates a flavor profile that appeals to both adults and children.
• Healthy Choice: Grilling the chicken reduces the need for added fats, making this a healthier alternative to fried options.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: The marinade can be prepared in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen and making mealtime even more convenient.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Chicken tenders
• Dijon mustard
• Honey
• Olive oil
• Garlic, minced
• Lemon juice
• Salt
• Black pepper

Directions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a mixing bowl, combine Dijon mustard, honey, olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until well blended.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken tenders in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated. Seal or cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably up to 8 hours for enhanced flavor.
3. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat, approximately 400°F (200°C). Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
4. Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken tenders from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off. Place them on the preheated grill. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is nicely charred.
5. Rest and Serve: Transfer the grilled chicken tenders to a serving platter. Let them rest for a few minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Marination Time: 1 to 8 hours
• Cooking Time: 6 to 8 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes (including minimum marination)

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade for a spicier version.
• Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme into the marinade for added depth of flavor.
• Citrus Twist: Substitute lemon juice with orange juice for a sweeter citrus profile.
• Baked Alternative: For an oven-baked version, place marinated chicken tenders on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or in the microwave at 50% power to prevent drying out. Avoid overcooking during reheating to maintain juiciness.

FAQs

What type of mustard is best for this recipe?

Dijon mustard is recommended for its smooth texture and balanced flavor, but you can experiment with whole-grain or spicy brown mustard for different taste profiles.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?

Yes, chicken breasts can be used. Slice them into strips to ensure even cooking and marination.

Is it necessary to marinate the chicken for the full 8 hours?

While longer marination enhances flavor, even 1 hour can impart a significant taste. Adjust marination time based on your schedule.

Can I prepare the marinade in advance?

Absolutely. The marinade can be prepared and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days before use.

What sides pair well with these chicken tenders?

They pair excellently with grilled vegetables, rice pilaf, salads, or roasted potatoes.

Can I freeze the marinated chicken?

Yes, place the chicken and marinade in a freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before grilling.

How do I prevent the chicken from sticking to the grill?

Ensure the grill grates are clean and well-oiled. Also, avoid moving the chicken too soon; it will release easily once properly seared.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, grilled chicken tenders store well and can be used in various dishes throughout the week.

Can I use a grill pan instead of an outdoor grill?

Certainly. A grill pan on the stovetop works well; just ensure it’s properly heated and oiled.

What internal temperature should the chicken reach?

The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s safely cooked.

Conclusion

Grilled Honey Mustard Chicken Tenders are a delightful fusion of sweet and tangy flavors, offering a versatile and healthy option for any meal. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or seeking a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe delivers satisfaction with every bite. Enjoy the simplicity and taste of this classic dish, and feel free to customize it to suit your palate.

Sources

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