Description
These Greek Chicken Tenders are a deliciously easy way to bring vibrant Mediterranean flavors to your table. Perfect for busy weeknights, they are marinated to ensure maximum flavor and tenderness.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound chicken tenders (or boneless, skinless chicken breasts sliced into strips)
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 3–4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar (or non-alcoholic red wine alternative)
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1–2 tablespoons Greek yogurt (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a medium non-reactive bowl, combine the extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, red wine vinegar, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. If using Greek yogurt, whisk it into the marinade mixture until well combined.
- Marinate the Chicken Tenders: Add the chicken tenders to the bowl with the marinade. Toss the chicken to ensure each piece is thoroughly coated. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or transfer the chicken and marinade to a resealable bag. Place it in the refrigerator to marinate for at least 30 minutes, preferably 2-4 hours, or up to 12 hours.
- Cook the Chicken Tenders: Remove the chicken from the refrigerator about 15-20 minutes beforehand to bring it closer to room temperature.
- For Pan-Frying Method: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the chicken tenders in a single layer. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- For Grilling Method: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates. Place the marinated chicken tenders directly on the grill. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through to 165°F (74°C).
- Rest and Serve: Once cooked, remove the chicken tenders from the pan or grill and let them rest for 5 minutes. Serve immediately with an extra squeeze of fresh lemon juice, if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 10 mins
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Pan-frying or Grilling
- Cuisine: Greek
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 0 g
- Sodium: 300 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 3 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg
Keywords: Don't overcrowd the pan or grill to ensure a proper sear. Marinate for optimal flavor but avoid over-marinating with lemon juice to prevent mushiness. Let the chicken rest after cooking for juicier results.