Easy Grilled Chicken Tenders with Lemon Herb Marinade

Grilled chicken tenders are one of those magical meals that check every box—they’re quick, delicious, healthy, and almost too easy to make. These easy grilled chicken tenders are marinated in a bright lemon herb blend, then grilled to juicy perfection in just 10 minutes. Whether you’re firing up the grill on a sunny weekend or just want something simple for dinner tonight, this recipe is a total winner.

What makes these chicken tenders truly special is the marinade. A mix of olive oil, lemon juice, and dried herbs soaks into the chicken, adding flavor and tenderness with every bite. It’s a weeknight staple in my kitchen, and I’m betting it’ll become one in yours, too. If you love simple dinners like this, you should also check out my ultra-cozy Creamy Chicken Marsala—another easy recipe that’s packed with rich flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Key Benefits

• Quick and easy: Just 35 minutes of prep (and most of that is hands-off marinating)
• Perfect for meal prep: Make a big batch and enjoy all week long
• Family-friendly: Mild, herby flavors that both kids and adults love
• Budget-friendly: Uses simple ingredients you probably already have

Taste & Texture

These chicken tenders are tender, juicy, and packed with flavor. Grilling gives them a delicious char and caramelized edges, while the marinade infuses every bite with citrusy zing and aromatic herbs. It’s the kind of flavor that keeps you coming back for seconds.

Dietary Attributes

• Naturally gluten-free
• Low-carb and keto-friendly
• High in protein
• Dairy-free

Ingredients & Substitutions

Ingredient List

• 1 pound chicken tenders
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper

Notes on Quality

Use fresh chicken tenders if possible—they cook more evenly and have a better texture. Freshly squeezed lemon juice will bring the marinade to life, and a high-quality olive oil will add a smooth richness to the flavor. If you’re working with frozen chicken, just be sure to thaw it completely before marinating.

Possible Substitutions

• Swap chicken tenders for boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs (just slice into strips)
• If you’re out of lemon juice, white wine vinegar can add some acidity in a pinch
• Replace dried thyme and oregano with Italian seasoning or fresh herbs if you have them on hand

Step-by-Step Instructions

• In a large Ziploc bag, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, thyme, oregano, salt, and black pepper
• Add the chicken tenders to the bag, seal it, and shake gently to ensure all the pieces are well coated
• Place the bag in the refrigerator and let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 8 hours
• Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat
• Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it directly on the hot grill

• Grill for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks
• Let the chicken rest for 3-5 minutes before serving to keep it juicy

Expert Tips & Tricks

Best Practices

• Always preheat your grill to get a good sear on the chicken
• Let the chicken rest before slicing—it helps the juices redistribute
• If using a grill pan indoors, lightly oil the pan before cooking to prevent sticking

Common Mistakes

• Overcooking is easy with chicken tenders because they’re so thin—keep a close eye and use a thermometer if needed
• Skipping the marinade will leave you with bland chicken, so give it at least 30 minutes
• Don’t overcrowd the grill—leave some space between each piece for even cooking

Time-Saving Tips

• Make the marinade in the morning so the chicken is ready to go by dinnertime
• Use pre-cut chicken tenders to skip slicing
• Double the batch and freeze the extras for future meals

Serving Suggestions

Pairings

• Serve over a bed of herbed rice or quinoa
• Pair with roasted or grilled vegetables like asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers
• Add to a big salad with cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and feta for a fresh and filling meal

Love easy sheet pan dinners too? You’ll want to try this Sheet Pan Gnocchi—loaded with flavor and ready in just 30 minutes.

Presentation Ideas

• Slice and serve on a platter with lemon wedges and a sprinkle of fresh parsley
• Thread onto skewers for a party-friendly presentation
• Plate over greens for a quick and vibrant lunch bowl

Beverage Pairings

• A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs beautifully with the lemony flavors
• For a non-alcoholic option, try sparkling water with lemon and mint
• Light beers like pilsners or wheat ales are a great casual match

Storage & Reheating

Leftover Storage

Store leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. They also freeze well—just let them cool completely and store in a zip-top freezer bag for up to 2 months.

Reheating Methods

• Microwave: Heat in short intervals to avoid drying out
• Oven: Reheat at 350°F for 8-10 minutes
• Air fryer: A great way to bring back a little crispness—try 370°F for 3-4 minutes

Frequently Asked Questions

Substitutions & Adjustments

Can I use a different protein?
Yes! This marinade works beautifully on turkey cutlets, tofu, or even shrimp—just adjust the grilling time accordingly.

Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely. Just make sure not to crowd the grill, and you’re good to go.

Troubleshooting

My chicken is dry—what went wrong?
Most likely, it was overcooked. Always check for doneness at the 3-minute mark, and aim for 165°F internal temperature.

The chicken stuck to the grill—how can I prevent that?
Make sure the grill is hot and lightly oiled before adding the chicken. Also, don’t flip too soon—let the grill marks form first.

Variations & Customizations

Dietary Adaptations

Want to make it paleo or Whole30? This recipe already fits the bill—just be sure your herbs and spices don’t contain additives. For a vegan version, try it with firm tofu or grilled portobello mushrooms.

Flavor Twists

• Add minced garlic or garlic powder to the marinade for an extra savory boost
• Mix in a teaspoon of Dijon mustard for a tangy twist
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat

Seasonal/Holiday Versions

In the summer, serve these with grilled corn and watermelon for a backyard BBQ vibe. In colder months, pair with roasted root veggies and mashed potatoes for a cozier plate.

Conclusion

These easy grilled chicken tenders with lemon herb marinade are everything you want in a simple dinner—flavorful, fast, and endlessly versatile. Whether you’re making them for a casual dinner, prepping meals for the week, or serving up something light and fresh at your next cookout, this recipe delivers every time.

If you try it, I’d love to hear how it turned out! Share your creations with me over on Pinterest or drop a comment to let me know your favorite pairings. And don’t forget to check out the creamy comfort of Chicken Marsala and the effortless goodness of Sheet Pan Gnocchi for more easy dinner inspiration.

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