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Pickle Juice Marinated Chicken Tenders Recipe - Easy & Juicy

Pickle Juice Marinated Chicken Tenders Recipe – Easy & Juicy


Description

Welcome to another delicious recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite! Today, we’re diving into the tangy, zesty world of Pickle Juice Marinated Chicken Tenders. This unique dish takes full advantage of leftover pickle juice, transforming ordinary chicken tenders into a flavorful, juicy meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Marinating chicken in pickle juice may sound unconventional, but it’s a secret weapon for adding extra tenderness and a subtle tang that everyone will love.


Ingredients

Scale

 

  • 1 ½ lbs chicken tenders: Ensure they are trimmed and cleaned.
  • 1 jar of leftover pickle juice: Any pickle juice will do, but dill pickle juice is highly recommended.
  • 2 bay leaves (optional): For an extra depth of flavor.

Optional Substitutions:

  • If you’re catering to specific dietary needs, you can opt for low-sodium pickle juice or homemade pickle brine to control the salt content.
  • For a sweeter note, try adding a tablespoon of honey to the marinade.
  • Prefer a bit of spice? Toss in a few red pepper flakes for a kick.

Instructions

 

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

  1. Place your chicken tenders in a large bowl.
  2. Pour the pickle juice over the chicken until fully submerged. Add the bay leaves if using.
  3. Cover the bowl with a lid or plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 3 hours or up to overnight for maximum flavor.

Pro Tip: For an even richer flavor, try adding some crushed garlic and onion powder to the pickle juice.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken for Cooking

  1. Remove the chicken from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before cooking.
  2. Discard the bay leaves and any remaining pickle juice.
  3. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels.

Pro Tip: Removing excess moisture ensures a better sear on the grill.

Step 3: Grill the Chicken

  1. Heat your outdoor grill or a grill pan over medium-high heat.
  2. Lightly spray the grill with avocado oil to prevent sticking.
  3. Place the chicken tenders on the grill, cooking for about 3-5 minutes per side or until grill marks appear and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Pro Tip: Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness without drying out the chicken.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

  1. Serve the chicken tenders hot, paired with a side of fresh pickles and lemon wedges.
  2. Enjoy your meal!

Notes

  • Marinate Overnight: While a minimum of 3 hours is effective, marinating overnight will give you the juiciest, most flavorful results.
  • Choose the Right Pickle Juice: Dill pickle juice is the classic choice, but you can experiment with sweet or spicy pickle juices based on your preference.
  • Add Spices: A teaspoon of garlic powder, onion powder, or paprika can be added to the brine for extra depth of flavor.