Cracker Barrel Smokey Chicken Tenderloin Recipe
These smokey chicken tenderloins copied from Craker Barrel are a family favorite.And it's all because of the combination of marinating seasoning and dry seasoning that gives these tenderloins a rich, smoky flavor.I love how the marinade infuses the chicken with flavor while keeping it juicy and tender.I recommend using a mix of smoked paprika and garlic powder in the dry seasoning for an extra kick.Don’t forget to cook the tenderloins over medium heat to get that perfect char without drying them out.
Ingredients
- 1 lb Chicken Tenderloins
- 1 cup Italian Dressing
- 1 tbsp Lime Juice
- 1 tbsp Honey
- 1/4 cup smoked paprika
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tbsp ground black pepper
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper adjust for desired heat level
- 1 tbsp ground mustard
- 1 tsp salt or to taste
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- Olive Oil Spray for cooking
Instructions
- Mix Italian dressing, lime juice, and honey in a bowl.
- Set aside for marinating.
- In another medium-sized bowl, combine all the dry ingredients to make the smokey seasoning blend.
- Mix thoroughly to ensure that all spices are evenly distributed.
- Place chicken tenderloins in a resealable plastic bag.
- Pour the marinade over the chicken and seal the bag.
- Squeeze the bag gently to coat the chicken evenly.
- Let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
- This is enough time for the flavors to penetrate the meat but not so much that the acid (from the lime juice) starts to break it down.
- Spray a non-stick pan or grill with olive oil.
- Heat over medium heat until ready for cooking.
- Sprinkle the seasoning over the chicken generously.
- Cook the marinated chicken tenderloins until golden brown and fully cooked.
- This usually takes about 6-8 minutes on each side.
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