If you have a Blackstone griddle and you’re wondering how long to cook chicken tenders, you’ve come to the right place. Cooking chicken tenders on a griddle can be a quick and convenient way to prepare a delicious meal. The Blackstone griddle is known for its ability to heat up quickly and evenly, making it perfect for cooking chicken tenders.
When cooking chicken tenders on a Blackstone griddle, it’s important to keep an eye on the cooking time to ensure the chicken is cooked through and not overcooked. The cooking time will depend on the thickness of the chicken tenders and the heat of your griddle.
A general rule of thumb is to cook chicken tenders for about 4-6 minutes per side on medium-high heat. However, it’s always a good idea to use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (74°C), which is the safe temperature for chicken.
It’s also worth noting that chicken tenders cook relatively quickly compared to other cuts of chicken, so be sure to check them frequently to avoid overcooking. Overcooked chicken tenders can become tough and dry, so it’s best to err on the side of caution and cook them until they’re just done.
How to Cook Chicken Tenders on Blackstone Griddle
Cooking chicken tenders on a Blackstone griddle is a delicious and easy way to enjoy this popular dish. The griddle’s flat surface and even heat distribution ensure that the meat cooks evenly and develops a crispy texture. Follow these simple steps to cook chicken tenders on your Blackstone griddle.
Ingredients:
1 pound of chicken tenders |
2 tablespoons of olive oil |
Salt and pepper, to taste |
Optional marinade or seasoning of your choice |
Instructions:
1. Preheat your Blackstone griddle to medium-high heat. You want the griddle to be hot enough to sear the chicken tenders.
2. In a bowl, toss the chicken tenders with olive oil, salt, pepper, and any optional marinade or seasoning. Make sure the tenders are evenly coated.
3. Place the chicken tenders on the preheated griddle. You should hear a sizzling sound as the meat makes contact with the hot surface.
4. Cook the tenders for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. The cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the tenders, so make sure to check for doneness using an instant-read thermometer.
5. Once the chicken tenders are cooked, remove them from the griddle and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute and ensures a tender and juicy final result.
6. Serve the chicken tenders hot with your favorite dipping sauce or alongside your favorite side dishes.
By following these simple steps, you can easily cook delicious and flavorful chicken tenders on your Blackstone griddle. Get creative with your marinades and seasonings to customize the flavor to your liking. Enjoy!
Preparation for Cooking Chicken Tenders on Blackstone Griddle
Before you start cooking chicken tenders on your Blackstone griddle, there are a few essential steps that you should take to ensure delicious and perfectly cooked results.
1. Thaw the Chicken Tenders
First, make sure your chicken tenders are completely thawed. If they are frozen, transfer them to the refrigerator and allow them to thaw overnight. This step is important to ensure even cooking and to avoid any potential food safety concerns.
2. Marinate or Season the Chicken Tenders
Next, you can choose to marinate or season your chicken tenders. Marinating the meat can add extra flavor and juiciness, while seasoning with spices and herbs can create a delicious coating. Let the chicken tenders sit in the marinade or seasoning for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
3. Preheat the Blackstone Griddle
Before cooking, preheat your Blackstone griddle to medium-high heat. This will ensure that the chicken tenders cook quickly and evenly.
4. Oil the Griddle
Once the griddle is preheated, lightly oil the cooking surface using a high-heat oil like vegetable or canola oil. This step will help prevent the chicken tenders from sticking and will promote a nice sear on the exterior.
5. Pat the Chicken Tenders Dry
Prior to cooking, pat the marinated or seasoned chicken tenders dry with paper towels. This will remove any excess moisture and help achieve a crispy texture on the outside.
6. Cook the Chicken Tenders
Place the prepared chicken tenders onto the oiled griddle, leaving space between each piece to allow for even cooking. Cook the tenders for approximately 4-6 minutes per side or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Flip them only once during cooking to ensure a golden-brown crust.
7. Rest and Serve
Once cooked, remove the chicken tenders from the griddle and let them rest for a few minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, resulting in tender and juicy chicken tenders. Serve them hot and enjoy!
Marinating Chicken Tenders for Blackstone Griddle Cooking
Marinating chicken tenders before cooking them on a Blackstone griddle can greatly enhance their flavor and tenderness. The marinade not only adds moisture but also infuses the chicken with delicious flavors.
Choosing a Marinade
When marinating chicken tenders for the Blackstone griddle, it is important to choose a marinade that complements the flavors you want to achieve. Some popular options include:
- Teriyaki Marinade: A sweet and tangy marinade made with soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and brown sugar.
- Lemon Herb Marinade: A refreshing marinade made with lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and herbs like rosemary and thyme.
- Spicy Barbecue Marinade: A bold and smoky marinade made with barbecue sauce, hot sauce, garlic, and spices.
Marinating Process
To marinate chicken tenders for Blackstone griddle cooking, follow these simple steps:
- Prepare the marinade: In a bowl, combine the marinade ingredients of your choice.
- Place the chicken tenders in a ziplock bag: Arrange the chicken tenders in a single layer inside a ziplock bag.
- Pour the marinade over the chicken tenders: Pour the prepared marinade into the ziplock bag, ensuring that all the chicken tenders are well coated.
- Seal the bag and refrigerate: Seal the ziplock bag, removing as much air as possible, and place it in the refrigerator. Marinate the chicken tenders for at least 30 minutes, but preferably for 2 to 24 hours to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
Remember to turn the ziplock bag occasionally to distribute the marinade evenly over the chicken tenders.
Cooking Chicken Tenders on Blackstone Griddle
Once the chicken tenders have finished marinating, it’s time to cook them on the Blackstone griddle. Make sure to preheat the griddle to medium-high heat before cooking.
- Remove the chicken tenders from the marinade: Take the chicken tenders out of the ziplock bag, allowing any excess marinade to drip off.
- Place the chicken tenders on the hot griddle: Lay the chicken tenders onto the hot griddle, making sure not to overcrowd them.
- Cook for about 4-5 minutes per side: Cook the chicken tenders for approximately 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Once cooked, remove the chicken tenders from the griddle and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your flavorful and moist chicken tenders!
Setting up the Blackstone Griddle for Chicken Tenders
Before you start cooking chicken tenders on your Blackstone Griddle, you’ll need to make sure it’s properly set up.
- First, ensure that the griddle is clean and free from any residual grease or debris. Use a scraper or grill brush to remove any leftover food, and wipe it down with a damp cloth.
- Next, turn the griddle on and preheat it to medium-high heat. It’s important to preheat the griddle to ensure even cooking and to help prevent the chicken tenders from sticking.
- While the griddle is preheating, season the chicken tenders with salt, pepper, or your preferred seasoning. You can also marinate the chicken tenders for added flavor if desired.
- Once the griddle is preheated, add a small amount of oil or cooking spray to prevent the chicken tenders from sticking. Spread the oil evenly across the cooking surface.
- Place the chicken tenders on the griddle, making sure to leave space between each piece to allow for even cooking. Avoid overcrowding the griddle, as this can result in uneven cooking and longer cook times.
- Cook the chicken tenders for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
- Once the chicken tenders are cooked, remove them from the griddle and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute and ensures a juicy and tender texture.
Now that your Blackstone Griddle is properly set up, you’re ready to cook delicious chicken tenders. Enjoy!
Cooking Chicken Tenders on Blackstone Griddle
Chicken tenders are a delicious and versatile protein that can be cooked in a variety of ways. One popular cooking method is using a Blackstone griddle, which offers a large surface area and even heat distribution.
To cook chicken tenders on a Blackstone griddle, follow these simple steps:
1. Prepping the chicken tenders:
Start by rinsing the chicken tenders under cold water and patting them dry with a paper towel. Season the tenders with your desired spices or marinade for extra flavor. Common seasonings include salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
2. Preheating the griddle:
Preheat your Blackstone griddle to medium-high heat. Apply a thin layer of cooking oil or non-stick cooking spray to prevent the tenders from sticking to the griddle.
3. Cooking the chicken tenders:
Place the seasoned chicken tenders on the preheated griddle. Cook for about 4-6 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Flip the tenders halfway through the cooking process to ensure even cooking.
4. Checking for doneness:
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken tenders. Once they reach 165°F (74°C), they are safe to eat and have reached the desired level of doneness.
5. Resting and serving:
Remove the cooked chicken tenders from the griddle and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, ensuring a tender and flavorful result. Serve the chicken tenders with your favorite dipping sauce or as part of a meal.
Using a Blackstone griddle to cook chicken tenders provides a quick and delicious way to enjoy this popular protein. Experiment with different spices and sauces to create a variety of flavors, and enjoy the juicy and flavorful results!
Q&A
How long should I cook chicken tenders on a blackstone griddle?
It typically takes about 8 to 10 minutes to cook chicken tenders on a blackstone griddle. Make sure to preheat the griddle to medium-high heat and flip the tenders halfway through cooking.
What temperature should I cook chicken tenders on a blackstone griddle?
You should cook chicken tenders on a blackstone griddle at a temperature of around 375°F to 400°F.
Should I marinate the chicken tenders before cooking them on a blackstone griddle?
Marinating the chicken tenders before cooking them on a blackstone griddle can add flavor and moisture. You can marinate them for about 30 minutes to a few hours before cooking.
Can I use frozen chicken tenders on a blackstone griddle?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken tenders on a blackstone griddle. However, you will need to cook them for a longer time, usually around 12 to 15 minutes, to ensure they are fully cooked.
How do I know when chicken tenders are cooked on a blackstone griddle?
You can check the internal temperature of the chicken tenders using a meat thermometer. The chicken tenders should reach an internal temperature of 165°F to be considered fully cooked. Additionally, the tenders should be golden brown and have a crispy exterior.