Cracker Barrel Grilled Chicken Tenderloin
Cracker Barrel Grilled Chicken Tenderloin Recipe - Made with Italian Dressing, Lime Juice, and Honey
Introduction
Grilled chicken tenderloin is a popular dish that is loved by many for its juicy and flavorful taste. This recipe for Cracker Barrel Grilled Chicken Tenderloin is a delicious and easy way to enjoy this classic dish at home.
History
The recipe for Cracker Barrel Grilled Chicken Tenderloin is inspired by the famous restaurant chain, Cracker Barrel, known for its Southern comfort food. This dish is a favorite among customers for its tender and juicy chicken tenderloins that are grilled to perfection.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (454 g) chicken breast tenders
- 0.5 cup italian dressing (spices drained and discarded)
- 1 tsp fresh lime juice
- 1.5 tsp honey
How to prepare
- In a bowl, combine the dressing, lime juice, and honey.
- Pour the mixture over the chicken tenders, ensuring that all tenders are fully coated. Allow the tenders to marinate for 1 hour.
- In a non-stick pan or on a grill, braise the tenders until they are lightly golden in color, being careful not to overcook them.
Variations
- Add your favorite herbs and spices to the marinade for a different flavor profile.
- Substitute the chicken tenderloins with turkey tenderloins for a leaner option.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Make sure to marinate the chicken tenders for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to fully develop.
- Be careful not to overcook the chicken tenders, as they can become dry and tough.
- Use a non-stick pan or grill to cook the chicken tenders to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Cracker Barrel Grilled Chicken Tenderloin with a side of grilled vegetables and a fresh salad for a complete and balanced meal.
Cooking Techniques
Grill the chicken tenderloins on a preheated grill for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until they are cooked through.
Ingredient Substitutions
Substitute the honey with maple syrup or agave nectar for a different sweetness.
- Use chicken thighs or breasts instead of tenderloins for a different texture.
Make Ahead Tips
You can marinate the chicken tenders ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking.
Presentation Ideas
Serve Cracker Barrel Grilled Chicken Tenderloin on a platter with fresh herbs and lemon wedges for a beautiful presentation.
Pairing Recommendations
Pair Cracker Barrel Grilled Chicken Tenderloin with a side of mashed potatoes and gravy for a classic Southern meal.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftover chicken tenderloins in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of Cracker Barrel Grilled Chicken Tenderloin contains approximately 150 calories.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of Cracker Barrel Grilled Chicken Tenderloin contains approximately 5 grams of carbohydrates.
Fats
Each serving of Cracker Barrel Grilled Chicken Tenderloin contains approximately 2 grams of fats.
Proteins
Each serving of Cracker Barrel Grilled Chicken Tenderloin contains approximately 25 grams of proteins.
Vitamins and minerals
Cracker Barrel Grilled Chicken Tenderloin is a good source of vitamin B6, niacin, and selenium.
Alergens
This recipe contains chicken and may contain allergens such as soy and wheat.
Summary
Cracker Barrel Grilled Chicken Tenderloin is a nutritious and delicious dish that is high in protein and low in carbohydrates and fats.
Summary
Cracker Barrel Grilled Chicken Tenderloin is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that is perfect for a quick and healthy meal. Enjoy the juicy and flavorful chicken tenderloins with your favorite sides for a satisfying dinner.
How did I get this recipe?
I recall the feeling of curiosity that overcame me when I found this recipe for Cracker Barrel Grilled Chicken Tenderloin. It was a warm summer day, and I was rummaging through an old recipe box that had belonged to my mother. As I flipped through the yellowed index cards and tattered scraps of paper, I stumbled upon a handwritten note that simply read: "Cracker Barrel Grilled Chicken Tenderloin."
I had always been a fan of Cracker Barrel's homestyle cooking, and the thought of being able to recreate one of their signature dishes in my own kitchen was both exciting and daunting. I knew that I had to give it a try.
I set out to gather all the ingredients listed on the note: chicken tenderloins, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and a touch of honey. As I gathered the items from my pantry and refrigerator, I couldn't help but wonder where this recipe had come from. Had my mother eaten this dish at a Cracker Barrel restaurant and begged the chef for the recipe? Or had she stumbled upon it in a cookbook or magazine?
With ingredients in hand, I began to prepare the marinade for the chicken tenderloins. I mixed together the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and honey in a bowl, creating a fragrant and flavorful mixture. As I coated the chicken tenderloins in the marinade and let them sit for a few hours to absorb all the delicious flavors, I couldn't help but feel a sense of anticipation.
Finally, it was time to grill the chicken tenderloins. I preheated the grill and carefully placed each piece of marinated chicken on the hot grates, the sizzle and aroma filling the air. As the chicken cooked, I couldn't help but think back on all the recipes and cooking techniques I had learned over the years.
I was brought up in a family of food lovers, where every meal was an opportunity to share stories, traditions, and flavors. My mother, aunts, and grandmothers all had their own signature dishes and secret recipes that they passed down through the generations. I had learned to cook by their side, absorbing their knowledge and techniques like a sponge.
As the chicken tenderloins grilled to perfection, I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride and accomplishment. The aroma of the marinade mingling with the charred grill marks on the chicken was intoxicating, and I knew that this dish would soon become a staple in my own kitchen.
When the chicken was finally cooked through and tender, I plated it up and garnished it with a sprinkle of fresh herbs. As I took my first bite, I was transported back to the memories of family gatherings, shared meals, and the love and laughter that filled our home.
I may never know the origins of the Cracker Barrel Grilled Chicken Tenderloin recipe that I found in my mother's old recipe box, but one thing is certain: it has become a beloved dish in my own family, a tribute to the traditions and recipes that have been passed down through the generations. And as I continue to cook and share these recipes with my own loved ones, I know that the legacy of good food and great memories will live on for years to come.