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Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken Tenders

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Cracker Barrel Chicken Tenders are known for their juicy, flavorful taste with a hint of sweetness and smokiness. This copycat recipe recreates that same delicious, tender texture with just a few simple ingredients. Perfect for a quick dinner, meal prep, or a kid-friendly meal, these tenders will have everyone coming back for more!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ lbs chicken tenders (or boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into strips)
  • 1/2 cup Italian dressing
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 1 tbsp lime juice

Instructions

  • Marinate the Chicken:

    • In a bowl or zip-top bag, mix Italian dressing, honey, and lime juice.
    • Add chicken tenders and toss to coat.
    • Cover and marinate in the fridge for at least 1 hour (or up to 8 hours for more flavor).
  • Cook the Chicken:

    • Stovetop: Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium heat. Cook tenders for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
    • Grill: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and cook for 4-5 minutes per side.
  • Serve & Enjoy!

    • Serve warm with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, or cornbread.

Notes

Extra Juicy Tip: Don’t overcook—remove tenders when they reach an internal temp of 165°F (74°C).
Baked Version: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes, flipping halfway.
Make It Spicy: Add a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the marinade.
Storage: Leftovers keep in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.