Cajun Ranch Grilled Chicken Tenders feature tender, juicy chicken strips with a golden-brown color and a light char from grilling. These tenders have a crisp exterior that contrasts with their moist, flavorful interior.
They are seasoned with a bold Cajun spice blend, which provides a smoky heat, balanced by the tangy, creamy flavor of ranch dressing. The aroma carries hints of grilled smokiness combined with savory herbs and spices.
This dish can be enjoyed as an appetizer, main course, or even as a flavorful addition to a salad, making it a versatile and appealing choice for many occasions.
Serves 3, has 9 ingredients and takes 1hr to make.
Cajun Ranch Tender Ingredients:
- 1 lb. chicken tenders
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp ranch seasoning mix
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
Garlic powder and smoked paprika add depth and smokiness. Salt and black pepper enhance the taste, while lemon juice brightens and tenderizes the chicken.
Grilling Instructions
- Prep the Chicken:
- Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- This helps the marinade stick better and ensures even cooking.
- Make the Marinade:
- In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, ranch seasoning, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
- Mix well until a paste forms. The paste should be thick enough to coat the chicken well.
- Marinate:
- Add the chicken tenders to the bowl with the marinade.
- Toss to coat each piece thoroughly. You can use your hands or a spatula for this.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the chicken and marinade to a zip-top bag.
- Let it sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, marinate for up to 2 hours for even more flavor.
- Preheat the Grill:
- Heat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375-400°F).
- If you’re using a gas grill, preheat it for about 10-15 minutes.
- For a charcoal grill, light the coals and let them heat until they’re covered with white ash.
- Grill the Tenders:
- Oil the grill grates lightly to prevent sticking.
- Place the marinated chicken tenders on the grill.
- Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Avoid moving the chicken around too much to get nice grill marks.
- Serve:
- Remove the chicken tenders from the grill and let them rest for a couple of minutes.
- This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the chicken moist.
- Serve the tenders hot with your favorite dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce.
Tips
- Variation: You can bake the chicken tenders at 400°F for 20 minutes if you don’t have a grill.
- Sides: Pair with a fresh salad, grilled veggies, or potato wedges for a complete meal.
- Storage: Leftover tenders can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Flavor Profile
These tenders blend smoky Cajun spice with tangy ranch, offering a savory, spicy kick balanced by creamy richness. Grilled to perfection, they boast a crisp exterior and juicy interior, delivering a satisfying taste experience.
Finishing Tips
Spritz with lime juice, garnish with fresh herbs, and serve with cool dipping sauces and sides like coleslaw for a delicious meal.
Enjoy making and eating these flavorful Cajun Ranch Grilled Chicken Tenders!
