Caribbean Jerk Grilled Chicken Tenders

These Grilled Chicken Tenders seasoned with Caribbean Jerk spice are perfect for dipping and are much healthier than fried chicken tenders.

dipping jerk chicken tenders into honey dijon dressing

Caribbean Jerk chicken tenders only take about 30 minutes to make using a pellet grill or charcoal grill.

If you are looking for a great tailgate appetizer, then you definitely need to give these grilled chicken tenders a try.

Caribbean Jerk Grilled Chicken Tender Recipe

You can use Boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into strips or use the chicken tenderloins

If you use the tenderloins you'll want to remove that small white tendon that's attached by running a paring knife underneath to remove it before grilling.

Ingredient List

Chicken Tenderloins or sliced chicken breasts
Limes
Avocado Oil
Caribbean Jerk Seasoning

for exact amounts, see the printable recipe card below

Cooking Instructions

Remove the white tendon with a paring knife from any of the chicken tenderloins, and then toss with avocado oil, lime juice, and Caribbean jerk seasoning. Let marinate for 1-2 hours.
Heat the pellet grill to 300 degrees F.
Place the jerk chicken tenders on the grill and cook for about 10 minutes per side until you reach an internal temperature of 160 degrees F.

grilled jerk chicken tenders on a wooden plate

Grilling over Medium Heat

Most of the time, when cooking on a pellet grill, you either cook really low to get maximum smoke or really high to sear.

When cooking chicken on a pellet grill, I find that a happy medium is best.

275-325 degrees F is that middle of the road where you get good smoke flavor still but you also can develop a crust or crisp up chicken skin

These Grilled chicken tenders will be incredibly juicy but still have that subtle smoke and grilled flavor you're looking for.

juicy jerk chicken tenders dipped in sauce

Dipping Sauce

I served these jerk chicken tenders with a honey dijon dressing that I love. You can also use my spicy ranch, Pineapple Salsa or believe it or not, blue cheese is actually really good with these tenders as well.

grilled chicken tenders with jerk seasoning

Pro Tips and Variations

Air Fryer/ Oven: If you don't have a grill or want to cook inside, you can make these jerk chicken tenders in the air fryer or oven. Follow the exact seasoning instructions and then cook for about 12-14 minutes at 400 degrees until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees F.

Reheating: To reheat, I recommend the oven or air fryer. Cook at 350 for 10-15 minutes until hot.

Storage: These tenders will last about 5 days in the fridge in a sealed container.

Freezing: You can freeze these jerk chicken tenders in a sealed bag or container for up to 90 days

Chicken: Chicken breast or tenderloin is what I use for this recipe, but Chicken thigh or even pork tenderloin can also be used in this recipe.

Seasoning: I have used a lot of different Jerk Seasonings at the restaurants I have worked at over the years and this is by far my favorite one.

Leftovers: I love taking any leftovers and making chicken salad check out this easy recipe

Frequently Asked Questions

What spices are in Jerk Seasoning?

Cumin, Thyme, nutmeg, allspice, paprika, and cinnamon are the predominant spices, along with chili flakes and other herbs, to round out the flavor profile.

Is Jerk Chicken Spicy?

Every jerk chicken recipe is different, the seasoning in this recipe is not overly spicy, and you can use less or more depending on your preferred heat level.

Can you use different seasonings?

Sure, You can make grilled chicken tenders using any seasoning your heart desires. Cajun, Lemon Pepper, BBQ Dry Rub. It's up to you.

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close up of jerk seasoning on grilled chicken tenders

dipping jerk chicken tender into honey dijon dressing

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