These Greek Chicken Tenders are juicy and full of flavor! Marinated in olive oil, lemon, and tasty herbs, they’re a healthy and delicious choice that’s perfect for any meal.
Making them is a breeze! I love serving these tenders with a side of tzatziki sauce for dipping. Seriously, it’s so good you might just want to drink it! 😂
Plus, they cook quickly, so you can enjoy a tasty meal without spending the whole evening in the kitchen. It’s a win-win!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Tenders: Fresh chicken tenders are perfect for this recipe due to their tenderness. If you’re looking for a healthier option, boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs can be used, though they might need a bit longer to cook.
Olive Oil: This ingredient adds great flavor and helps to keep the chicken moist. If you need a substitute, try avocado oil or even melted butter for a different taste!
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens the dish beautifully. If lemons are out of season, bottled lemon juice is fine, but fresh is always best for flavor.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the most flavor, but garlic powder can be used in a pinch. Use 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder for each clove.
Herbs: Dried oregano and thyme provide a classic Greek flavor. If they’re not available, Italian seasoning can work as a good alternative.
How Can I Make Sure the Chicken Is Juicy and Well-Cooked?
Getting perfectly cooked chicken can be tricky, but keeping a few tips in mind will help. First, marinating the chicken is essential, as it infuses flavor and moisture.
- Marinate the chicken in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors soak in. Up to 2 hours is even better!
- Preheat your grill or skillet well before cooking. This ensures a nice sear and prevents sticking, especially in a skillet with some oil.
- Cook the tenders undisturbed for about 5-7 minutes per side, and keep an eye on the color; they should turn a lovely golden brown.
- Always check for doneness with a meat thermometer. It should reach 165°F (75°C) when done. Letting it rest for a few minutes after cooking keeps it juicy.
How to Make Greek Chicken Tenders
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb chicken tenders
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus at least 30 minutes for marinating in the fridge (up to 2 hours if you want more flavor). Then, it will take about 15 minutes to cook. So, in total, you’re looking at around 55 minutes to enjoy delicious Greek Chicken Tenders!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Whisk everything together until it’s well mixed and looks nice and tasty.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken tenders to the bowl. Make sure each tender gets a nice coating of that delicious marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and pop it in the fridge. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes to soak up all the flavors—longer is even better!
3. Get Ready to Cook:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. If you’re using a skillet, drizzle a little olive oil to keep the chicken from sticking.
4. Cook the Chicken Tenders:
Take the chicken tenders out of the marinade and let any excess drip off. Place them on the hot grill or skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side. You want them to be golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure they’re safely cooked.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once cooked, remove the chicken from heat and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps keep it juicy! Finally, garnish with the chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve warm and enjoy your flavorful Greek Chicken Tenders!
Can I Use Chicken Breast Instead of Tenders?
Absolutely! You can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into strips. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary; they might take a bit longer, about 7-10 minutes per side, or until they reach the safe internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Can I Marinate the Chicken Overnight?
Yes! Marinating the chicken for up to 24 hours will enhance the flavor even more. Just ensure you store it in the refrigerator and keep it covered to avoid any contamination.
How to Store Leftover Chicken Tenders?
Leftover chicken tenders can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you’d like to keep them longer, freeze them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Can I Substitute Fresh Herbs for Dried?
Yes, you can! If you have fresh oregano and thyme, use about three times the amount of fresh herbs (e.g., 1 tsp dried is equivalent to about 1 tbsp fresh). Just remember that fresh herbs should be added at the end of cooking to maintain their flavor and color!
