Garlic Lime Chicken Tenders

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s fast, flavorful, and healthy. The lime gives the chicken a tangy brightness that balances perfectly with the savory garlic and spices. Whether I cook them in a skillet or on the grill, the tenders come out juicy and golden brown every time. They’re perfect for weeknight meals, meal prep, or even a backyard BBQ.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Chicken tenders or boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into strips

• Fresh lime juice

• Garlic, minced

• Olive oil

• Ground cumin

• Smoked paprika or regular paprika

• Salt

• Black pepper

• Optional: chopped cilantro for garnish

Directions

1. I start by placing the chicken tenders in a bowl or zip-top bag.

2. I mix together lime juice, minced garlic, olive oil, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.

3. I pour the marinade over the chicken and toss to coat evenly. I let it marinate for at least 20 minutes, or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor.

4. I heat a skillet or grill over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of oil if needed.

5. I cook the chicken tenders for about 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and fully cooked through.

6. Once cooked, I let them rest for a couple of minutes before serving. I like to sprinkle chopped cilantro over the top for a fresh finish.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings and takes roughly 30 minutes total, including a short marinade. It’s perfect when I need something fast but still full of flavor.

Variations

Sometimes I add a little honey or brown sugar to the marinade for a hint of sweetness, or a pinch of chili flakes for heat. I’ve also used lemon instead of lime when that’s all I have on hand. If I want a creamier version, I slice the cooked tenders and serve them with a garlic lime yogurt sauce or over avocado.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm them gently in a skillet or the microwave. They also freeze well—once cooled, I freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a bag for up to 2 months. They’re great for tossing into salads or wraps later.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?

Yes, I slice boneless chicken breasts into strips or even use them whole—just adjust the cooking time to ensure they’re cooked through.

Do I need to marinate the chicken for a long time?

Not at all. Even 20–30 minutes gives great flavor, though letting it sit for a couple of hours will make it even better.

What should I serve with garlic lime chicken tenders?

I usually pair them with rice, roasted veggies, a fresh salad, or tuck them into tortillas for easy tacos or wraps.

Can I grill these instead of using a pan?

Absolutely. I grill them over medium-high heat for about 3–4 minutes per side until charred and cooked through.

Can I make this spicy?

Yes! I add a pinch of cayenne pepper, chili powder, or a splash of hot sauce to the marinade when I want more heat.

Conclusion

Garlic lime chicken tenders are one of my favorite go-to meals when I want something bold, fresh, and fast. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, I get juicy, flavorful chicken that works with just about any side dish or meal. It’s simple, healthy, and always a crowd-pleaser.