Greek Chicken Tenders Recipe

Introduction

Greek Chicken Tenders are a flavorful and easy-to-make dish perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. Marinated in lemon, garlic, and oregano, these tender chicken pieces bring a touch of Mediterranean sunshine to your plate.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 2 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp smoked paprika

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika until well combined.
2. Step 2: Add the chicken breasts to the marinade, making sure they are fully coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor.
3. Step 3: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat or set your oven to 400°F (200°C).
4. Step 4: Grill or bake the chicken tenders for 6 to 7 minutes on each side until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and have a golden brown color.
5. Step 5: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve with your favorite dipping sauces or fresh vegetables for a complete meal.

Tips & Variations

• For extra tenderness, marinate the chicken overnight in the refrigerator.
• Use fresh oregano instead of dried for a brighter herb flavor.
• Try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle spicy kick.
• Serve with tzatziki sauce and a side of Greek salad to enhance the Mediterranean vibe.

Storage

Store leftover cooked chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or a skillet to avoid drying out the meat. For longer storage, freeze the cooked chicken wrapped tightly for up to 2 months.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs work well with this recipe and stay juicy when grilled or baked. Adjust cooking time as thighs may cook faster or slower depending on thickness.

How can I tell when the chicken is fully cooked?

The best way is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, slice into the thickest part to ensure the juices run clear and the meat is no longer pink.

Greek Chicken Tenders Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 138 reviews

These Greek Chicken Tenders are juicy, flavorful, and perfectly seasoned with garlic, lemon, oregano, and smoked paprika. Marinated to enhance the natural tenderness of the chicken breasts, they can be grilled or baked for a deliciously healthy meal that pairs nicely with fresh veggies or dipping sauces.

• Author: Dylan
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 12-14 minutes
• Total Time: 42-44 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Greek
• Diet: Halal

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken and Marinade

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 2 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp smoked paprika

Instructions

1. Prepare Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika until fully combined to create a flavorful marinade.
2. Marinate Chicken: Add the chicken breasts to the marinade, making sure each piece is fully coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours, to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
3. Preheat Cooking Equipment: Either preheat your grill to medium-high heat or your oven to 400°F (200°C) to get ready for cooking the chicken tenders.
4. Cook Chicken: Place the chicken tenders on the grill or in the oven. Cook for 6-7 minutes per side, turning once, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and is nicely golden brown on the outside.
5. Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken from heat and let it rest for 5 minutes to retain juices. Slice as desired and serve with fresh vegetables or your favorite dipping sauces for a complete meal.

Notes

• Marinating the chicken longer, up to 4 hours, enhances flavor and tenderness.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is safely cooked to 165°F (75°C).
• For a smokier taste, grilling is recommended; baking is a great alternative for indoor cooking.
• Pair with a Greek salad or tzatziki sauce for authentic flavor.

Keywords: Greek chicken tenders, grilled chicken, marinated chicken, healthy chicken recipe, lemon garlic chicken