Flavorful Mediterranean Chicken Tenders Recipe
These Flavorful Mediterranean Chicken Tenders are marinated in a zesty blend of olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, oregano, and paprika, then pan-seared to golden perfection. Quick to prepare and packed with vibrant Mediterranean flavors, they make a perfect protein-packed meal that’s both tender and juicy.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Halal
Ingredients
Scale
Marinade
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Chicken
- 1 lb chicken tenders, trimmed (ready to cook)
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, dried oregano, paprika, salt, and freshly ground black pepper until well combined to form a flavorful marinade.
- Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken tenders to the bowl and toss them thoroughly to coat each piece evenly with the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 2 hours to allow the flavors to deeply infuse the chicken.
- Preheat the Skillet: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Drizzle a small amount of olive oil to coat the pan to prevent sticking and promote browning.
- Cook the Chicken Tenders: Place the marinated chicken tenders in a single layer in the hot skillet. Cook undisturbed for 4 to 5 minutes until the underside is golden brown and edges begin to crisp.
- Flip and Continue Cooking: Turn the chicken tenders over using tongs and cook for an additional 4 to 5 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C), ensuring they are fully cooked and juicy.
- Rest the Chicken: Remove the cooked chicken tenders from the skillet and let them rest on a plate for 2 minutes. This helps retain their juices and keeps them tender.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the chicken and serve with lemon wedges for a bright, fresh finish that complements the Mediterranean flavors.
Notes
- For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
- You can use chicken breasts cut into strips if tenders aren’t available.
- Adjust the salt and paprika according to your taste preference.
- Serve with a side of rice, salad, or pita bread for a complete Mediterranean meal.
- Ensure not to overcrowd the pan to allow proper browning.
Keywords: Mediterranean chicken tenders, garlic lemon chicken, pan-fried chicken, quick chicken recipe, healthy chicken tenders
