Lemon Rosemary Grilled Chicken Tenders

Name: Lemon Rosemary Grilled Chicken Tenders
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 6 min
Total time: 36 min
Cuisine: American
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 for garnish

Published: June 29, 2025

by Amelia

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: With just 30 minutes of marinating and only 6 minutes on the grill, you can enjoy a flavorful dinner in no time.
Versatile Dish: Serve these chicken tenders with salads, wraps, or alongside your favorite sides for any occasion.
Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and made with wholesome ingredients, this dish is both nutritious and satisfying.
Flavorful Marinade: The blend of lemon juice, honey, and herbs creates an irresistible marinade that ensures juicy chicken every time.
Grilling Perfection: Cooking on the grill adds a smoky flavor that enhances the overall taste of the dish.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking Lemon Rosemary Grilled Chicken Tenders, gather your essential tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Grill
Mixing bowl
Whisk
Zip-top bag or dish

Importance of Each Tool

Grill: Provides an even cooking surface and imparts a smoky flavor to the chicken.
Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining ingredients without making a mess.
Whisk: Ensures that all marinade ingredients blend smoothly for maximum flavor.
Zip-top bag or dish: Perfect for marinating chicken without leaks or spills.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

12 Chicken Breast Tenderloins

For the Marinade

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

For Garnish

1/4 cup fresh basil

How to Make Lemon Rosemary Grilled Chicken Tenders

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a small mixing 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 Chicken

Place the chicken tenderloins in a zip-top bag or shallow dish.
Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are coated. Reserve a few tablespoons for basting later.
Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 6 hours.

Step 3: Preheat the Grill

Heat your grill to medium indirect heat.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

Add marinated chicken tenders to the grill.
Cook for 2-3 minutes on one side before flipping them over.
Baste with reserved marinade and cook an additional 2-3 minutes until fully cooked.

Step 5: Rest Before Serving

Remove the chicken from the grill and tent with foil.
Allow resting for about 3-5 minutes before serving.

Step 6: Garnish and Enjoy

Top each serving with a sprinkle of fresh basil before serving.

Enjoy your Lemon Rosemary Grilled Chicken Tenders as part of an easy dinner that everyone will love!

How to Serve Lemon Rosemary Grilled Chicken Tenders

Serving Lemon Rosemary Grilled Chicken Tenders can elevate your dining experience, making it both delightful and nutritious. Here are some creative ways to present this flavorful dish.

On a Fresh Salad

A light bed of mixed greens topped with sliced grilled chicken adds a refreshing element. Drizzle with a lemon vinaigrette for extra zing.

With Quinoa or Rice

Serve the chicken over a fluffy quinoa or brown rice base. This combination is not only healthy but also filling and complements the chicken’s flavors beautifully.

In a Wrap

Use whole grain tortillas to wrap the grilled tenders along with fresh vegetables and a spread of hummus or tzatziki for a quick and satisfying meal.

With Roasted Vegetables

Pair your chicken with an assortment of roasted seasonal vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots for a colorful and nutritious side.

As Part of a Platter

Create a platter with the grilled chicken, olives, cheese alternatives, and pita bread for a fun appetizer or finger food at gatherings.

How to Perfect Lemon Rosemary Grilled Chicken Tenders

Achieving the perfect Lemon Rosemary Grilled Chicken Tenders requires attention to detail and some helpful tips. Here’s how you can enhance your grilling game.

Marinate Longer: For deeper flavor, let the chicken marinate for the full 6 hours instead of just 30 minutes.
Preheat Your Grill: Ensure your grill is adequately preheated to achieve those lovely grill marks and seal in juices.
Use Indirect Heat: Cooking on medium indirect heat helps prevent drying out, especially for tenderloins.
Baste Frequently: Basting with reserved marinade during grilling keeps the chicken moist and flavorful.
Rest After Cooking: Allow the grilled chicken to rest under foil for 3-5 minutes before serving; this helps retain its juices.

Best Side Dishes for Lemon Rosemary Grilled Chicken Tenders

Pairing Lemon Rosemary Grilled Chicken Tenders with complementary side dishes can enhance your meal. Here are some delicious options:

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make a comforting side that pairs well with grilled chicken.
Steamed Asparagus: Simple yet elegant, steamed asparagus adds freshness and crunch.
Cucumber Tomato Salad: A refreshing salad with diced cucumbers, tomatoes, and a light dressing balances the richness of the chicken.
Mediterranean Couscous: Fluffy couscous mixed with herbs and lemon zest brings an aromatic touch to your plate.
Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with olive oil and herbs is perfect for summer barbecues alongside grilled chicken.
Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries offer a sweet contrast that complements the savory flavors of the dish.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Caramelized Brussels sprouts add depth and texture while maintaining healthiness in your meal.
Cauliflower Rice: Light yet filling, cauliflower rice provides a low-carb option that absorbs all the flavors from your grilled tenders.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Properly preparing Lemon Rosemary Grilled Chicken Tenders can elevate your meal, but avoiding common pitfalls is essential.

Bold marinade choices: Using too much acid in your marinade can toughen the chicken. Stick to the recommended lemon juice amount for tender results.
Bold marinating time: Marinating for too short a time prevents flavor absorption. Aim for at least 30 minutes, but no longer than 6 hours to avoid mushiness.
Bold grill temperature: Cooking on too high of heat can burn the outside while leaving the inside undercooked. Use medium indirect heat for even cooking.
Bold basting technique: If you forget to reserve some marinade for basting, you miss out on adding moisture and flavor. Always set aside a few tablespoons before marinating.
Bold resting period: Cutting into your chicken immediately after grilling will let juices escape. Allow it to rest tented with foil for 3-5 minutes to retain moisture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store cooked Lemon Rosemary Grilled Chicken Tenders in an airtight container.
They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing Lemon Rosemary Grilled Chicken Tenders

Place cooled chicken tenders in a freezer-safe bag or container.
They can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Lemon Rosemary Grilled Chicken Tenders

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals (1 minute), checking frequently to ensure they don’t dry out.
Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth or water, covering to steam and warm evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Lemon Rosemary Grilled Chicken Tenders.

Can I use another herb instead of rosemary?

Yes, you can substitute with thyme or parsley if you prefer a different flavor profile.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

Chicken tenders are cooked when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Can I marinate the chicken overnight?

While you can marinate overnight, it’s best not to exceed this duration as it may change the texture.

What sides pair well with Lemon Rosemary Grilled Chicken Tenders?

Consider serving them with grilled vegetables, quinoa salad, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all ingredients listed are gluten-free. Just ensure any additional sides or sauces are also gluten-free.

How do I adjust the recipe for more servings?

Simply multiply the ingredient amounts by the number of servings needed while keeping the same cooking times.

Final Thoughts

Lemon Rosemary Grilled Chicken Tenders are not only quick and easy but also versatile and flavorful. You can customize this dish by experimenting with different herbs or marinades. Give it a try, and enjoy a delicious meal that’s perfect any night of the week!

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