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As the summer sun graces our backyards, the sizzle of the grill becomes a symphony of joy and anticipation. There’s something undeniably appealing about grilling, especially when it involves vibrant tropical flavors that transport our taste buds to sun-kissed beaches. Enter Tropical Zest Grilled Chicken Tenders—a dish that encapsulates the essence of summer cooking with its refreshing ingredients and simple preparation.

Grilled Chicken Tenders

Escape to the tropics with Tropical Zest Grilled Chicken Tenders! This easy-to-make recipe combines juicy chicken with vibrant flavors of pineapple, ginger, and soy sauce, creating a mouthwatering dish perfect for summer gatherings or meal prep. Packed with healthy ingredients, each bite bursts with sweetness and savory goodness. Enjoy grilling while crafting a delicious experience that your family and friends will love. Dive into tropical flavors today!
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Ingredients
  

1 pound chicken tenders

1/4 cup freshly squeezed pineapple juice

2 tablespoons soy sauce

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

2 tablespoons honey

2 cloves garlic, finely minced

1 teaspoon ground ginger

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a kick)

2 green onions, finely chopped (for garnish)

Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)

Lemon or lime wedges (for serving)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Marinade: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the pineapple juice, soy sauce, olive oil, honey, minced garlic, ground ginger, smoked paprika, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you desire some heat. Ensure all ingredients are thoroughly combined to create a silky marinade.

    Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken tenders into a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is generously coated with the flavorful mixture. Seal the bag or cover the dish tightly, then refrigerate for a minimum of 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to infuse the chicken (for best results, marinate for up to 2 hours).

      Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, aiming for a temperature of around 400°F (200°C). If you're using a grill pan, heat it on the stove over medium-high until ready.

        Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken tenders from the marinade, allowing any excess liquid to drip off. Place the tenders on the hot grill and cook for approximately 4-5 minutes on each side. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and display lovely grill marks.

          Rest the Chicken: After grilling, transfer the chicken tenders from the grill to a plate and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This resting period is essential for allowing the juices to redistribute within the chicken, ensuring each bite is tender and juicy.

            Serve: Arrange the grilled chicken tenders on a serving platter. Garnish generously with chopped green onions and sprinkle fresh cilantro on top if desired. Serve with lemon or lime wedges alongside for that perfect zesty finish.

              Enjoy your Tropical Zest Grilled Chicken Tenders, fresh off the grill!

                Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 55 minutes | Servings: 4