After a recent trip to Cracker Barrel, I wanted to try and replicate their Grilled Chicken Tenders recipe. After a little research, this is the copycat recipe I came up with. I think it’s pretty close to the real thing!
When it comes to the chicken you have a couple of options. You can either use Chicken tenders, which may be called tenderloins or use chicken breasts and make your own tenderloins.
In a pinch I guess you could also use frozen chicken tenderloins but I have not tried this yet as I like to use fresh food as much as possible.
How to Handle Raw Chicken
- Leave the chicken in the fridge until ready to use.
- Be careful of dripping juices. Clean up immediately.
- Do not wash raw chicken (prevents cross-contamination).
- Wash all utensils and cutting boards.
- I highly recommend wearing Disposable Food Safe Gloves when handling raw chicken
- If not wearing gloves, wash your hands after handling raw chicken.
Cracker Barrel is a popular chain of restaurants in the United States known for its Southern-style comfort food and charming country store atmosphere.
Copycat Rating
Since the goal of a Copycat Recipe is for it to taste exactly like the original, it’s only natural to rate this recipe against the original. This Copycat recipe rates a solid 7 out of 10 in my opinion.
Serving Suggestions
When you visit Cracker and Barrel they offer many different sides when you order their Grilled Chicken Tenders like Mashed Potatoes, Mac & Cheese, Fresh Fruit, Coleslaw and more! And don’t forget a biscuit or two!
Kitchen Gadgets
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Gather your Ingredients
You will need the following ingredients to make this Grilled Chicken Tenders recipe from Cracker Barrel. For ingredient amounts please refer to the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.
- Chicken Tenders – If using chicken breasts use boneless & skinless
- Italian Salad Dressing – The “secret” ingredient for the marinade
- Honey – Add a little sweetness to the marinade
- Fresh Lime Juice – You can use bottled lime juice if you want
How to Make Grilled Chicken Tenders
- Place the chicken tenders in a large freezer bag. Add the rest of the ingredients to the freezer bag.
- Seal the bag removing any excess air. Squeeze the chicken through the bag to coat all the chicken tenders. Let marinate in the refrigerator for at least one hour.
- Add the chicken and liquid to a large skillet. Cook over medium heat until the liquid is reduced and the chicken is golden in color but not dry, turning the chicken throughout the cooking process.
- When done, the chicken should have an internal temperature of 165°F.
Printable Recipe Card
Copycat Cracker Barrel Grilled Chicken Tenders
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Ingredients
- 1 lb Chicken Tenders, or cut chicken breasts
- ½ Cup Italian Salad Dressing
- 2 Tbsp Honey
- 2 Tsp Fresh Lime Juice
Instructions
- Place the chicken tenders in a large freezer bag. Add the rest of the ingredients to the freezer bag.
- Seal the bag removing any excess air. Squeeze the chicken through the bag to coat all the chicken tenders. Let marinate in the refrigerator for at least one hour.
- Add the chicken and liquid to a large skillet. Cook over medium heat until the liquid is reduced and the chicken is golden in colour but not dry, turning the chicken throughout the cooking process.
- When done, the chicken should have an internal temperature of 165°F.
Equipment Needed
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The best thing about these chicken tenders is the fantastic taste. They were so easy to make and very flavourful.