Grilled chicken tenders are the unsung heroes of quick, flavorful meals. Whether you’re planning a laid-back backyard barbecue, a healthy weeknight dinner, or prepping lunches for the week ahead, these versatile cuts of chicken deliver big on taste and texture without the hassle. Juicy, tender, and quick to cook, they absorb marinades beautifully and pair effortlessly with a wide range of dishes—from fresh salads and hearty sandwiches to crowd-pleasing skewers hot off the grill.
In this roundup of 11 grilled chicken tender recipes, you’ll find bold and exciting flavor combinations that go far beyond the basics. Think tangy Mediterranean herbs, smoky barbecue glazes, spicy Asian-inspired marinades, and zesty citrus notes that bring every bite to life. These recipes are designed for flexibility, making them ideal for customizing to your taste, dietary needs, or what you’ve got in the fridge.
Each recipe also comes with pairing suggestions and serving ideas, so whether you’re stacking your tenders in a toasted bun, slicing them over crisp greens, or threading them onto skewers for easy entertaining, you’ll have everything you need to turn simple ingredients into something truly satisfying. These dishes aren’t just about feeding a crowd—they’re about savoring the joy of summer-style grilling any time of year.
So fire up the grill and let your creativity take over. These grilled chicken tender recipes are your ticket to flavorful, fuss-free meals that hit the mark every single time.
Mediterranean Chicken Salad with Feta
This Mediterranean Chicken Salad with Feta is a delightful mix of fresh flavors and textures. Juicy grilled chicken, crunchy vegetables, and creamy feta come together to create a satisfying meal that’s also light and refreshing. Perfect for lunch or a light dinner, this salad is not only delicious but also simple to prepare, making it a go-to recipe for busy days.
The combination of tangy olives and feta cheese, along with crisp greens and vibrant tomatoes, gives this salad a Mediterranean flair that’s hard to resist. Plus, it’s easily customizable, allowing you to add your favorite ingredients or whatever you have on hand. Enjoy it on its own or pair it with pita bread for a heartier option!
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, sliced
- 4 cups mixed salad greens
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/3 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the salad greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, Kalamata olives, red onion, and feta cheese.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Add the sliced chicken to the salad and drizzle the dressing over the top. Toss gently to combine.
- Serve immediately, or chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Spicy Chipotle Chicken Salad
This Spicy Chipotle Chicken Salad is a delightful mix of flavors and textures, making it a perfect choice for lunch or dinner. Tender grilled chicken is marinated in a spicy chipotle sauce, giving it a smoky kick that pairs beautifully with fresh greens and vibrant vegetables.
Not only is this salad packed with flavor, but it’s also quick and easy to prepare. You can enjoy it as a light meal on its own or as a tasty side. Perfect for those busy weekdays or a weekend gathering, this salad is sure to impress!
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken tenders, sliced
- 1 tablespoon chipotle sauce
- 4 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, or romaine)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1/4 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine the sliced chicken with the chipotle sauce, ensuring the chicken is well-coated.
- In a large salad bowl, layer the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, avocado, red onion, corn, and black beans.
- Top the salad with the spicy chipotle chicken.
- Drizzle with lime juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Toss gently to combine, and serve immediately.
BBQ Chicken Wrap with Fresh Veggies
This BBQ Chicken Wrap is a delightful combination of grilled chicken, fresh vegetables, and a tangy BBQ sauce, all wrapped in a soft tortilla. It’s a quick and easy meal that’s bursting with flavors, making it perfect for lunch or a light dinner.
With the smoky flavor of the grilled chicken harmonizing beautifully with the crunch of fresh veggies, each bite is satisfying and refreshing. You can customize the ingredients based on your preferences, making it not only delicious but also versatile.
Ingredients
- 2 large tortillas
- 2 grilled chicken breasts, sliced
- 1 cup lettuce, shredded
- 1/2 cup bell peppers, sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, sliced
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: cheese, avocado
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the grilled chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Slice them into strips.
- Assemble the Wrap: Lay the tortillas flat and spread a generous amount of BBQ sauce on each. Layer the shredded lettuce, sliced bell peppers, red onion, and chicken strips on top.
- Add Extra Ingredients: If desired, add cheese or avocado for extra flavor and creaminess.
- Wrap it Up: Fold the sides of the tortilla inwards, then roll it up tightly from the bottom to the top.
- Serve: Slice the wrap in half and enjoy with extra BBQ sauce on the side!
Teriyaki Chicken Skewers with Pineapple
These Teriyaki chicken skewers are a delightful mix of savory and sweet flavors that make for a perfect summer meal. The juicy chicken, marinated in a rich teriyaki sauce, pairs wonderfully with the grilled pineapple, adding a fresh burst of flavor with every bite. This recipe is simple to make, requiring just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, making it ideal for both weeknight dinners and weekend gatherings.
With their vibrant colors and delicious taste, these skewers are sure to impress family and friends. Grill them up for a tasty addition to salads, or serve them in sandwiches for a fun twist on lunch. Enjoy the ease of cooking and the joy of sharing a meal that feels special!
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken tenders
- 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
- 1 cup fresh pineapple, diced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Skewers (soaked in water if wooden)
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the chicken tenders and teriyaki sauce. Allow to marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
- Prep the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
- Assemble Skewers: Thread the marinated chicken and pineapple pieces alternately onto the skewers.
- Grill the Skewers: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
- Serve: Remove from the grill and let rest for a few minutes. Season with salt and pepper as desired before serving.
Honey Mustard Chicken Skewers
Honey mustard chicken skewers are a tasty treat that brings together the sweetness of honey and the tanginess of mustard for a delightful flavor combination. These skewers are not only delicious but also super easy to prepare, making them perfect for a quick dinner or a fun barbecue with friends.
Whether you’re looking for a dish to serve at a party or something to enjoy on a casual evening, these skewers fit the bill. They are juicy, tender, and can be served with a variety of sides or dipped in your favorite sauces. Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken tenders
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Wooden or metal skewers
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix honey, Dijon mustard, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken tenders, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and let marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Prepare the Skewers: Thread the marinated chicken tenders onto the skewers, leaving some space between each piece.
- Grill the Skewers: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 6-8 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is fully cooked and has nice grill marks.
- Serve: Remove from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve with extra honey mustard sauce for dipping!
Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Skewers
Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Skewers are a delightful way to enjoy tender chicken infused with zesty lemon and fresh herbs. The bright flavors make this dish not only tasty but also refreshing, perfect for warm days or outdoor gatherings. Plus, they’re super simple to prepare, making them a go-to option for busy weeknights or quick get-togethers.
The marinade combines tangy lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and a mix of your favorite herbs, giving the chicken a burst of flavor. Once grilled to perfection, these skewers are juicy on the inside with a lovely char on the outside. They can be served on their own, added to salads, or nestled in sandwiches for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken tenders
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken tenders in the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers.
- Grill the Skewers: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has grill marks.
- Serve: Remove from the grill and serve hot with lemon wedges for an extra splash of flavor.
Cilantro Lime Chicken Skewers
Cilantro lime chicken skewers are a burst of freshness on a stick! The combination of cilantro and lime gives the chicken a zesty, vibrant flavor that’s perfect for grilling. These skewers are simple to make, making them a quick weeknight dinner option or an ideal choice for your next barbecue.
Marinated in a mix of lime juice, cilantro, garlic, and a hint of spice, the chicken remains juicy and tender after grilling. Serve them alone or as part of a salad or sandwich, and you’ll have a dish that’s sure to impress family and friends.
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds chicken tenders
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Wood or metal skewers
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, cilantro, garlic, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place chicken tenders in a resealable bag and pour the marinade over them. Seal and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat and oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
- Skewer the Chicken: Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers, leaving a little space between each piece.
- Grill: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
- Serve: Remove from the grill and let rest for a few minutes. Serve with extra lime wedges and fresh cilantro for garnish.
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Sandwiches
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Sandwiches are a delicious take on a classic favorite. The juicy grilled chicken is marinated in a rich garlic and Parmesan mixture, making every bite packed with flavor. This recipe is straightforward, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend BBQ with friends.
The combination of tender chicken, melted cheese, and fresh greens creates a satisfying meal. You can serve these sandwiches with your favorite sides or enjoy them as is. This tasty treat is sure to please anyone at the table!
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 4 sandwich buns
- 1 cup lettuce
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sliced pickles (optional)
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Add the chicken breasts and toss to coat. Cover and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Grill the Chicken: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade and grill for about 6-7 minutes per side or until cooked through and juices run clear.
- Prepare the Sandwiches: Toast the sandwich buns on the grill for about 1-2 minutes. Spread mayonnaise on each bun, then layer with grilled chicken, lettuce, and pickles if desired.
- Serve: Close the sandwiches and serve immediately, enjoying them hot off the grill!
Buffalo Chicken Salad with Blue Cheese
This Buffalo Chicken Salad with Blue Cheese is a delightful twist on a classic dish. The tangy and spicy buffalo chicken pairs perfectly with the creamy blue cheese, creating a flavor explosion in every bite. It’s not only satisfying but also simple to prepare, making it a great option for a quick lunch or a light dinner.
The combination of crunchy greens, tender chicken, and zesty dressing makes this salad a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s easily customizable—add your favorite veggies or additional toppings to make it your own!
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
- 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup blue cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup ranch or blue cheese dressing
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: lime wedges for serving
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine the shredded chicken with the buffalo sauce, mixing well to coat.
- In a large salad bowl, add the chopped romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
- Top the salad with the buffalo chicken mixture and sprinkle with crumbled blue cheese.
- Drizzle the ranch or blue cheese dressing over the salad and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side, if desired.
Italian Herb Grilled Chicken Sandwich
This Italian Herb Grilled Chicken Sandwich is a delightful way to enjoy juicy chicken with fresh ingredients. The combination of grilled chicken marinated in a blend of Italian herbs, paired with fresh vegetables, creates a sandwich that’s bursting with flavor. It’s simple to make, making it perfect for a quick lunch or dinner!
The delicious herbs not only enhance the chicken but also complement the crisp tomatoes and creamy mozzarella. Once grilled, all these elements come together in a warm, toasted sandwich that is both satisfying and refreshing.
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, sliced
- 1 large tomato, sliced
- Fresh basil leaves
- 2 pieces of ciabatta bread
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix olive oil, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Add chicken breasts and coat well. Let sit for at least 30 minutes.
- Grill the Chicken: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side until cooked through. Remove from grill and let rest.
- Prepare the Sandwich: Slice the grilled chicken and layer it on ciabatta bread. Top with mozzarella slices, tomato, and fresh basil leaves.
- Toast the Sandwich: Return the sandwich to the grill for a few minutes until the bread is crispy and the cheese begins to melt.
- Serve: Cut the sandwich in half and enjoy your Italian Herb Grilled Chicken Sandwich warm!
Peach Glazed Chicken Skewers
Peach glazed chicken skewers are a delightful way to enjoy grilled chicken, combining sweet and savory flavors that make for a tasty dish. The juicy peaches caramelize beautifully on the grill, adding an irresistible charm to each bite. This recipe is simple enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough for summer gatherings.
The marinade of peach preserves, soy sauce, and a splash of lime creates a delicious glaze that clings to the chicken, offering a wonderful balance of flavors. These skewers are perfect for salads, sandwiches, or enjoyed on their own!
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken tenders
- 1 cup peach preserves
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Wooden skewers, soaked in water
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix the peach preserves, soy sauce, lime juice, garlic, ginger, salt, and pepper.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken tenders in a resealable bag and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
- Preheat the Grill: Get your grill ready by preheating it over medium-high heat.
- Assemble the Skewers: Thread the marinated chicken tenders onto the soaked skewers, leaving space between each piece to ensure even cooking.
- Grill: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is fully cooked and has nice grill marks. Brush with extra marinade during grilling for added flavor.
- Serve: Remove from the grill and let rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy with fresh veggies or over a salad!
Final Thoughts
Grilled chicken tenders are a kitchen staple for a reason—they’re quick, reliable, and endlessly adaptable. With these 11 standout recipes, you’ll never run out of inspiration for turning them into something special. Whether you’re building a meal for one or feeding a group, these grilled favorites are guaranteed to impress. Let the grilling begin!