Cracker Barrel Grilled Chicken Tenders Recipe: If you’ve ever found yourself at Cracker Barrel, face buried in a menu, and somehow always circling back to those juicy grilled chicken tenders… you’re not alone. They’re simple, flavorful, and have that addictive honey-lime flavour that makes you think, “Why can’t I make this at home?” Well, guess what you totally can. This copycat Cracker Barrel Grilled Chicken Tenders Recipe is the weeknight dinner hero you didn’t know you needed.
At Oooh Delish, we’ve tackled comfort food classics from Outback Steakhouse Potato Soup to Benihana Mustard Sauce, and now it’s time to bring these sweet, tangy grilled tenders to your table. Whether you’re meal prepping, cooking for picky kids, or just trying to impress your in-laws, this protein-packed, sugar-skipping star does it all. And yes, it’s naturally gluten-free!
Plus, with only a few pantry ingredients and zero breading, these grilled chicken tenders pair beautifully with other Oooh Delish favorites like Healthy Sweet Potato Wedges or Cold Cucumber Mint Soup. You can even double the batch and use leftovers in wraps or salads the next day if there are any left!
- Origins of Cracker Barrel Grilled Chicken Tenders Recipe
- Health Benefits of Cracker Barrel Grilled Chicken Tenders Recipe
- Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Cracker Barrel Grilled Chicken Tenders Recipe
- Serving and Variations for Cracker Barrel Grilled Chicken Tenders Recipe
- Cracker Barrel Grilled Chicken Tenders Recipe From OoohDelish!
- Share Your Twist on This Cracker Barrel Grilled Chicken Tenders Recipe!
- FAQs: Cracker Barrel Grilled Chicken Tenders Recipe
Origins of Cracker Barrel Grilled Chicken Tenders Recipe
Cracker Barrel’s menu is a Southern comfort food time capsule, and nestled among the chicken-fried steaks and biscuits is a surprisingly simple yet beloved dish: grilled chicken tenders. These tenders aren’t your typical drive-thru kind. Nope, they’re marinated in a honey-lime blend that caramelizes slightly on the grill, delivering flavor without the breading or grease. It’s a go-to order for those craving a lighter option with big Southern flavor.
The origins of this dish go hand-in-hand with Cracker Barrel’s identity. Since opening in 1969 in Lebanon, Tennessee, Cracker Barrel aimed to reflect homestyle country cooking. And grilled chicken tenders became a staple for folks wanting that homestyle flavor without the heaviness. The brilliance lies in the marinade, no long ingredient list, just three pantry classics that work magic.
Copycat recipes popped up across food blogs and Pinterest as people realized this dish is not just tasty but also wildly easy to recreate. It’s become a popular recipe on health-focused blogs and family cooking sites, right up there with our own Keto Cauliflower Mac and Cheese Recipe and Instant Pot Beef Stew Recipe. Whether you’re a Southern food purist or just a weeknight cook in a rush, this recipe has earned its spot in the regular dinner rotation.
Health Benefits of Cracker Barrel Grilled Chicken Tenders Recipe
Don’t let the “Cracker Barrel” name fool you; this recipe is secretly a health win. While the restaurant is famous for hearty fare, their grilled chicken tenders stand out as a high-protein, low-carb option that fits into a wide range of diets. They’re naturally gluten-free, keto-friendly, and contain no breading or frying, making them ideal for anyone looking to lighten up their meal without sacrificing taste.
At the heart of this recipe is lean chicken breast, a staple in any balanced diet. According to Nutritionix, a 3-ounce serving of grilled chicken breast offers approximately:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 128 kcal |
| Protein | 26 g |
| Fat | 2.7 g |
| Carbohydrates | 0 g |
| Sugar | 0 g |
But the goodness doesn’t stop at the protein count. The marinade ingredients, like honey and lime juice, bring antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. Lime provides a dose of vitamin C, while honey (when used in moderation) can help soothe digestion and boost your immune system.
For those following a keto or low-sugar diet, you can swap honey for a sugar-free substitute like monk fruit syrup or allulose. This tweak keeps the flavor intact and fits your macros. You can also pair this chicken with sides like Cauliflower Mac and Cheese or a crisp Cucumber Mint Salad for a full, healthy plate.
Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Cracker Barrel Grilled Chicken Tenders Recipe
1. Use Chicken Tenderloins or Slice Breast Thinly
Cracker Barrel typically uses tenderloins, but if you can’t find them, slice boneless, skinless chicken breasts into even, thin strips. This helps them cook evenly and stay juicy.
2. Marinate for Maximum Flavor
Let the chicken sit in the marinade for at least 2 hours, but if you can swing overnight, you’ll get that real-deal Cracker Barrel flavor. The combo of Italian dressing, lime juice, and honey is magic; it’s tangy, sweet, and savory all in one. For a low-sugar option, swap honey with monk fruit syrup or allulose.
3. Don’t Overcook!
The key to juicy grilled chicken is not overdoing it. Chicken tenders cook quickly, about 3-4 minutes per side on medium heat. Use a meat thermometer and aim for an internal temp of 165°F (74°C).
4. Indoor or Outdoor Grill Both Work!
No grill? No problem. You can use a cast-iron skillet or grill pan on the stovetop. Just make sure to preheat it and give it a light oil brush so the chicken doesn’t stick.
5. Meal Prep Hero
These grilled chicken tenders are meal prep gold. Make a big batch and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Pair with a healthy side like Green Juice Detox or Paleo Zucchini Bread for a power-packed lunch.
6. Want It Creamy?
Dip the tenders in your own sauce! Serve with Benihana Mustard Sauce or a keto ranch dip. They even taste amazing chopped over a Master’s Egg Salad.
Serving and Variations for Cracker Barrel Grilled Chicken Tenders Recipe
Serving Suggestions
These grilled chicken tenders are the Swiss Army knife of protein: delicious, versatile, and ready to team up with almost anything on your plate. Serve them hot off the grill alongside a fresh Cold Cucumber Mint Soup for a cool contrast, or over a bed of Healthy Side Dishes & Salads for a complete summer-friendly meal. Hosting guests? Pair the tenders with a refreshing Blackberry Mojito or Coconut Mojito for a tropical backyard dinner.
You can also tuck them into pita bread with some shredded lettuce and Crack Chicken Penne sauce for a fusion-style wrap that screams comfort.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add a dash of cayenne or a squirt of sriracha to the marinade for a fiery edge. Try serving with Easy Sriracha Meatballs to double down on the heat.
- Lemon-Herb Upgrade: Swap the Italian dressing for a homemade lemon herb vinaigrette and add rosemary or thyme for a Mediterranean flair.
- Sweet BBQ Version: Replace the lime juice with apple cider vinegar and the honey with maple syrup, then brush on BBQ sauce in the last minute of grilling.
- Low-Carb Wrap: Roll them up in lettuce leaves with avocado slices and drizzle with Lemon Ginger Ferment for a gut-friendly bite.
- Salad Topper: Dice leftovers and toss them into a big bowl with arugula, cherry tomatoes, and Berry Lemonade Chia Pudding for a sweet-savory combo.
Cracker Barrel Grilled Chicken Tenders Recipe From OoohDelish!
Cracker Barrel Grilled Chicken Tenders Recipe
Equipment
- 1 Grill pan or cast iron skillet
- 1 Mixing bowl
- 1 Measuring cup
- 1 Tongs
Ingredients
- 1 ½ lbs chicken tenders
- ½ cup Italian dressing
- 1 tbsp fresh lime juice
- 2 tsp honey
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp salt optional
- Cooking spray or olive oil for grill pan
Instructions
- Make the marinade: In a mixing bowl, whisk together Italian dressing, lime juice, honey, garlic powder, and black pepper until well combined.
- Marinate the chicken: Place the chicken tenders in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight for maximum flavor.
- Preheat grill or skillet: Spray your grill pan or skillet with cooking spray or olive oil. Heat over medium-high heat.
- Grill the chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and place onto the hot grill pan. Cook for 5–6 minutes per side until nicely charred and cooked through.
- Rest and serve: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving to retain juices. Enjoy with mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh garden salad!
Notes
Share Your Twist on This Cracker Barrel Grilled Chicken Tenders Recipe!
Did you add a smoky BBQ glaze? Swap the lime juice for lemon? Maybe grilled them on a charcoal grill for extra flavor? However you spun it, we want to hear about it!
📸 Tag your juicy creations on Instagram or Facebook with #OoohDelishTwist you might just inspire a whole new chicken tender revolution!
💌 Got a twist that made grandma demand the recipe? Email us at contact@ooohdelish.com and your version could be featured in our next roundup!
FAQs: Cracker Barrel Grilled Chicken Tenders Recipe
What is the Cracker Barrel Grilled Chicken Tenders Recipe?
It’s a juicy, marinated chicken tender recipe inspired by Cracker Barrel’s famous grilled tenders—packed with flavor and cooked to perfection.
Can I make Cracker Barrel Grilled Chicken Tenders Recipe in the oven?
Absolutely! Bake at 400°F for 15–20 minutes or until internal temp reaches 165°F. Broil the last 2 mins for slight char.
Is Cracker Barrel Grilled Chicken Tenders Recipe keto-friendly?
Yes! With low carbs and no breading, it’s naturally keto—just be mindful of the dressing’s sugar content.
How do I store leftover Cracker Barrel Grilled Chicken Tenders Recipe?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave until warm.
Can I freeze Cracker Barrel Grilled Chicken Tenders Recipe?
Yes! Freeze cooked tenders in a sealed bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and reheat for an easy meal prep solution.
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