Grilled Orange Chicken Tenders

When dinner needs to be quick, flavorful, and family-friendly, these Grilled Orange Chicken Tenders are a recipe you’ll want to keep on repeat. Tender strips of chicken are coated in a simple homemade orange glaze with just a touch of Dijon mustard, honey, and sesame oil for a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavor. After only 15 minutes of marinating, they’re ready for the grill, where the glaze caramelizes into a delicious golden coating.

This easy recipe comes together in about 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights, backyard cookouts, or healthy meal prep. Pair the chicken with baked potato wedges, fresh carrot sticks, or a crisp green salad for a meal everyone will love.

After only 15 minutes of marinating, they’re ready for the grill, where the glaze caramelizes into a delicious golden coating.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• This recipe is quick enough for weeknights while still feeling special.
• The short marinade infuses the chicken with bright citrus flavor in just 15 minutes.
• The honey creates beautiful caramelization on the grill.
• It’s naturally high in protein and made with simple pantry ingredients.
• Perfect for kids and adults alike.
• Easy to meal prep for lunches throughout the week.

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, trimmed
• 1½ tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1½ tablespoons frozen orange juice concentrate, thawed
• 1½ tablespoons honey
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon salt

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How to Make Grilled Orange Chicken Tenders

• Slice the chicken breasts into strips about ¾-inch wide.
• In a medium bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, orange juice concentrate, honey, sesame oil, and black pepper until smooth.
• Add the chicken strips and toss until evenly coated.
• Cover and refrigerate for 15 minutes.
• Preheat your grill or broiler and lightly oil the grill grates or coat a broiler pan with cooking spray.
• Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the remaining marinade.
• Grill or broil the chicken for 2 to 3 minutes per side, or until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
• Season lightly with salt and serve immediately.

Tips for Success

• Cut the chicken into similar-sized strips so everything cooks evenly.
• Don’t marinate longer than about 30 minutes, as the citrus can begin to affect the texture of the chicken.
• Oil the grill grates well to help prevent sticking.
• Use an instant-read thermometer to avoid overcooking.
• Let the chicken rest for a couple of minutes before serving to keep it juicy.

Serving Ideas

• Serve with baked potato wedges tossed in olive oil, garlic, and herbs.
• Pair with carrot and celery sticks for an easy family meal.
• Add grilled corn on the cob during summer cookouts.
• Slice leftovers over a fresh green salad.
• Wrap the chicken in tortillas with lettuce and shredded carrots for easy lunches.
• Serve with steamed rice and roasted broccoli for a complete meal.

Tips for Entertaining

• Thread the chicken strips onto small skewers for easy party appetizers.
• Serve alongside grilled vegetables and fresh fruit for a colorful summer spread.
• Offer extra honey mustard or orange dipping sauce for guests.
• Prepare the marinade ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to grill.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken tenderloins instead of chicken breasts? Yes! Chicken tenderloins work perfectly and require little to no slicing.

Can I bake these instead of grilling? Absolutely. Bake at 425°F for about 12 to 15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken reaches 165°F.

Can I freeze the cooked chicken? Yes. Cool completely and freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.

Can I make this recipe ahead? Yes. The chicken can be marinated several hours ahead and grilled just before serving.