Greek Chicken Tenders Recipe

If you’re looking for a dish that captures the vibrant spirit of Mediterranean cuisine in every juicy bite, Greek Chicken Tenders are just what your weeknight dinner routine needs! Bursting with zesty lemon, aromatic garlic, earthy oregano, and a hint of smoky paprika, these tenders strike the perfect balance between bold flavors and melt-in-your-mouth tenderness. Whether you’re firing up the grill or popping them in the oven, this recipe delivers a deliciously healthy crowd-pleaser that’s just as good served hot off the grates as it is sliced cold atop a salad the next day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in these Greek Chicken Tenders is chosen for a reason—nothing complicated, just pure flavor and beautiful color. These pantry staples work together to bring a bright, herbaceous, and downright craveable twist to classic chicken.

• Chicken Breasts: Go for boneless, skinless breasts so your tenders are lean, juicy, and easy to slice or serve whole.
• Olive Oil: The base of the marinade, olive oil keeps the chicken moist and helps carry all those delicious flavors into each bite.
• Fresh Garlic: Four bold cloves create that unmistakable punch and depth signature to Greek cooking—don’t skimp!
• Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed is key for brightness and a subtle tang that tenderizes the chicken beautifully.
• Dried Oregano: Classic Mediterranean aroma and flavor; it rounds out the herbal notes and instantly says “Greek.”
• Salt: Essential for seasoning—don’t be shy, it wakes up all the other flavors.
• Black Pepper: Adds a subtle kick and complexity that makes these Greek Chicken Tenders pop.
• Smoked Paprika: Just a teaspoon gives a gentle smokiness and brilliant color that looks as wonderful as it tastes.

How to Make Greek Chicken Tenders

Step 1: Whisk Together the Marinade

Start by pulling out your mixing bowl and whisking together the olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. You want a smooth, aromatic marinade where all the spices are fully blended. The kitchen will already start to smell amazing—the anticipation builds!

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Slice the chicken breasts into even tenders if you’d like, or keep them whole for larger pieces. Dunk the chicken into your marinade, making sure every piece gets luxuriously coated. Cover with plastic wrap and let it chill for at least 30 minutes (if you have time, let them soak up all that flavor for up to 4 hours). This time in the fridge is what gives Greek Chicken Tenders their signature succulence and layers of flavor.

Step 3: Prep the Grill or Oven

For grilling, preheat to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates. If baking, set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. No matter which method you pick, you’re in for a treat—these tenders turn out perfectly juicy either way.

Step 4: Cook to Tender Perfection

Grill or bake the chicken tenders for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until they’re golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Be sure not to overcook; the goal is irresistibly juicy, not dry! The marinade ensures a golden, flavorful crust on the outside while keeping the inside tender and moist.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

Once cooked, let your Greek Chicken Tenders rest on a plate for about 5 minutes. This little pause helps all the tasty juices redistribute through the meat. After that, slice, plate, and serve with your favorite dipping sauces or a pile of fresh veggies.

How to Serve Greek Chicken Tenders

Garnishes

Add a final flourish to your Greek Chicken Tenders with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or dill, a handful of crumbled feta, and a squeeze of extra lemon. These little details take the tenders from “delicious” to “show-stopper” and add pops of color and flavor.

Side Dishes

Keep the Mediterranean vibe going strong with fluffy pita bread, a vibrant Greek salad full of tomatoes, cucumbers, and olives, or a simple tzatziki dip on the side. Even roasted potatoes or herbed rice work wonders, soaking up every last drop of flavor from the chicken.

Creative Ways to Present

Try piling Greek Chicken Tenders into warm pita wraps with crisp veggies and creamy spreads, or slice them thin for topping salads and grain bowls. They’re also fantastic appetizer-style, served in bite-sized pieces with colorful toothpicks and a trio of dipping sauces for parties.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers (good luck with that!), let your Greek Chicken Tenders cool to room temperature, then refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. They stay tender and flavorful, making for excellent meal prep lunches or easy next-day dinners.

Freezing

For longer storage, arrange cooked tenders in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. Just remember to label the container with the date—these tasty strips are easy to forget in the freezer since they disappear so fast once found.

Reheating

To bring your Greek Chicken Tenders back to life, reheat gently in a 300°F oven or on a skillet until just warmed through. For a quick option, the microwave also works, but use a lower power and cover the tenders to prevent them from drying out.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs stay extra juicy and work beautifully in this recipe. Just be sure to adjust your cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a bit longer to reach that perfect doneness.

How long should I marinate the Greek Chicken Tenders?

For the best flavor, marinate for at least 30 minutes, but for maximum tenderness and taste, 2-4 hours is ideal. If you’re rushed, even a short soak will still make a noticeable difference!

What’s the best way to slice the chicken for tenders?

For classic tenders, cut the chicken breasts into even, long strips (about 1 inch wide). This creates pieces perfect for grabbing and dipping, and ensures even cooking every time.

Can I make Greek Chicken Tenders ahead for meal prep?

Yes! These tenders are a meal prep dream. Simply cook as described, cool, and divide into containers with your favorite sides—they’ll keep well for several days and can be enjoyed cold or reheated.

What sauces go well with Greek Chicken Tenders?

Tzatziki is a classic pairing, but you can also serve them with hummus, garlic-yogurt sauce, or even a light vinaigrette. The savory, herby flavor of the chicken matches well with creamy and tangy dips.

Final Thoughts

With their bold flavor, juicy texture, and effortless versatility, these Greek Chicken Tenders truly capture the heart of the Mediterranean table. Give them a try—you’re just a few simple steps away from a recipe you’ll want to make again and again!

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