Name: Greek Chicken Tenders Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-489293H14M37S
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Greek
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

Jump to Recipe

Introduction

Greek Chicken Tenders are a simple yet flavorful dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering. Marinated in lemon, garlic, and oregano, these tender chicken pieces bring a taste of the Mediterranean to your plate.

The image shows several pieces of cooked chicken tenders arranged closely on a white plate, each piece golden-brown with a slightly crispy texture and scattered black pepper. Small bits of green herbs are sprinkled evenly on top of the chicken, adding a fresh look. The chicken appears juicy with a light glaze of sauce underneath, creating a shiny surface. A small wedge of lemon is partially visible in the background on the top right corner. The scene is set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

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

Step 1: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika until well combined.
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 more flavor.
Step 3: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat or set your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Step 4: Grill or bake the chicken tenders for about 6-7 minutes on each side. Cook until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and have a golden brown color.
Step 5: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve with your favorite dipping sauces or a side of fresh vegetables.

Tips & Variations

For extra zest, add a teaspoon of grated lemon zest to the marinade.
Use bone-in chicken pieces for juicier results, but increase cooking time accordingly.
Swap smoked paprika for sweet paprika if you prefer a milder smoky flavor.
Serve with a Greek yogurt dip or tzatziki for authentic Mediterranean flair.

Storage

Store leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave to retain moisture. Avoid overcooking when reheating to keep the chicken tender.

How to Serve

The image shows a pile of golden-brown fried chicken strips on a white plate, each strip has a crispy, slightly uneven texture with small dark brown charred spots and is sprinkled with fresh green chopped herbs. The chicken strips are stacked unevenly, with some pieces lying flat and others resting on top at angles, creating a layered look. A wedge of yellow lemon is placed behind the chicken in the background, adding a bright contrast. The surface beneath the plate is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

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 offer a juicier texture. Adjust cooking time slightly as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.

Is it necessary to marinate the chicken?

Marinating enhances the flavor and tenderness, but if you’re short on time, you can cook the chicken without marinating. The dish will still be tasty, though less infused with the lemon and garlic flavors.