Greek Chicken Tenders: The Ultimate Recipe & Guide

Greek Chicken Tenders: Prepare to embark on a culinary journey to the sun-kissed shores of the Mediterranean, right from your very own kitchen! Imagine biting into juicy, perfectly seasoned chicken, bursting with the vibrant flavors of lemon, garlic, and oregano. These aren’t your average, run-of-the-mill chicken tenders; they’re a taste of Greece, reimagined for a quick and easy weeknight meal.

While not a dish with centuries of documented history, these Greek Chicken Tenders draw inspiration from classic Greek flavors and cooking techniques. Think of souvlaki, those delicious grilled meat skewers, or the bright and herbaceous marinades that are staples of Greek cuisine. This recipe takes those beloved elements and transforms them into a kid-friendly, adult-approved finger food that’s perfect for dipping, salads, or even wrapping in a warm pita.

What makes these tenders so irresistible? It’s the perfect balance of flavors, the tender and juicy texture of the chicken, and the sheer convenience of it all. Forget complicated recipes and hours in the kitchen; these Greek Chicken Tenders come together in a snap, making them ideal for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings. The zesty marinade infuses every bite with a burst of freshness, while the optional crispy coating adds a satisfying crunch. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll be hooked!

this RECIPE

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch thick strips
• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (full-fat or non-fat)
• 1/4 cup olive oil, plus more for drizzling
• 1/4 cup lemon juice, freshly squeezed
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons dried oregano
• 1 tablespoon dried dill
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• Lemon wedges, for serving

Marinating the Chicken:

Okay, let’s get started! The key to incredibly flavorful and tender Greek chicken is a good marinade. This yogurt-based marinade not only infuses the chicken with delicious Mediterranean flavors but also helps to tenderize it, resulting in juicy and succulent tenders.

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried dill, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes (if using). Make sure everything is well combined and the mixture is smooth. The yogurt might seem a little thick at first, but the lemon juice and olive oil will help to loosen it up.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken strips to the bowl with the marinade. Use your hands (or a spoon) to ensure that each piece of chicken is thoroughly coated in the yogurt mixture. Don’t be shy – really get in there and make sure every nook and cranny is covered!
3. Refrigerate: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the chicken and marinade to a resealable plastic bag. Place it in the refrigerator and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes. For the best flavor, I recommend marinating it for at least 2 hours, or even overnight. The longer it marinates, the more flavorful and tender the chicken will become. However, don’t marinate it for more than 24 hours, as the acidity of the lemon juice can start to break down the chicken too much.

Preparing the Breadcrumb Coating:

While the chicken is marinating, let’s get the breadcrumb coating ready. This crispy coating adds a wonderful texture and flavor contrast to the tender chicken. The combination of panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and fresh parsley creates a truly irresistible crust.

1. Combine the Ingredients: In a shallow dish or on a large plate, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and chopped fresh parsley. Use a fork to mix everything together until it’s evenly distributed. Make sure there are no clumps of Parmesan cheese.
2. Season the Breadcrumbs: You can add a pinch of salt and pepper to the breadcrumb mixture if you like, but the Parmesan cheese is already quite salty, so be careful not to over-season it. You can also add a little bit of garlic powder or dried oregano to the breadcrumbs for an extra boost of flavor.

Coating and Cooking the Chicken:

Now comes the fun part – coating the chicken and cooking it to golden-brown perfection! You can choose to bake or pan-fry the chicken tenders, depending on your preference. Baking is a healthier option, while pan-frying results in a crispier crust.

Baking Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the chicken from sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
2. Coat the Chicken: Remove the chicken strips from the marinade, letting any excess marinade drip off. One at a time, dredge each chicken strip in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure that the breadcrumbs adhere to the chicken. Make sure the chicken is completely coated on all sides.
3. Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the breaded chicken strips on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they are not touching each other. This will allow the hot air to circulate around each piece of chicken, resulting in even cooking and browning.
4. Drizzle with Olive Oil: Drizzle a little bit of olive oil over the breaded chicken strips. This will help them to brown nicely in the oven.
5. Bake: Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the breadcrumbs are golden brown. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check the temperature.
6. Rest: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the chicken tenders rest for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful chicken.

Pan-Frying Instructions:

1. Prepare the Pan: Heat about 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Make sure the oil is hot before adding the chicken. You can test the oil by dropping a small piece of breadcrumb into the pan. If it sizzles immediately, the oil is ready.
2. Coat the Chicken: Remove the chicken strips from the marinade, letting any excess marinade drip off. One at a time, dredge each chicken strip in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure that the breadcrumbs adhere to the chicken. Make sure the chicken is completely coated on all sides.
3. Fry the Chicken: Carefully place the breaded chicken strips in the hot skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side, or until it is golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
4. Remove and Drain: Remove the cooked chicken tenders from the skillet and place them on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.

Serving:

These Greek chicken tenders are delicious served hot, warm, or even at room temperature. They are perfect as an appetizer, a main course, or even as a snack. Here are some serving suggestions:

• With Lemon Wedges: Serve the chicken tenders with lemon wedges for squeezing over the top. The lemon juice adds a bright and refreshing flavor that complements the Greek flavors perfectly.
• With Tzatziki Sauce: Serve the chicken tenders with tzatziki sauce for dipping. Tzatziki sauce is a traditional Greek yogurt-based sauce made with cucumber, garlic, and dill. It’s a cool and creamy sauce that pairs perfectly with the savory chicken.
• In a Pita Wrap: Wrap the chicken tenders in a warm pita bread with lettuce, tomato, onion, and tzatziki sauce for a delicious and easy meal.
• On a Salad: Top a Greek salad with the chicken tenders for a protein-packed and flavorful meal.
• As an Appetizer: Serve the chicken tenders as an appetizer with a variety of dipping sauces, such as hummus, baba ghanoush, or a simple yogurt dip.

Enjoy! I hope you love these Greek chicken tenders as much as I do. They are a delicious and easy way to enjoy the flavors of Greece at home. Kali Orexi!

Conclusion:

This isn’t just another chicken tender recipe; it’s a passport to the sun-drenched flavors of Greece, right in your own kitchen! These Greek Chicken Tenders are a must-try because they deliver a symphony of taste and texture that’s both satisfying and incredibly easy to achieve. The marinade, bursting with lemon, garlic, and oregano, transforms ordinary chicken into something truly special. The crispy, golden-brown exterior gives way to juicy, tender chicken that will have everyone reaching for seconds (and maybe thirds!).

But the best part? This recipe is incredibly versatile. While they’re fantastic on their own, dipped in a creamy tzatziki sauce (which, by the way, is a *must* for the full Greek experience!), the possibilities are endless.

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

* Greek Chicken Tender Salad: Slice the tenders and toss them into a vibrant Greek salad with crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, cucumbers, Kalamata olives, feta cheese, and a tangy vinaigrette. It’s a light and refreshing meal perfect for lunch or a warm summer evening.

* Greek Chicken Tender Wraps: Wrap the tenders in warm pita bread with hummus, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and a dollop of tzatziki. These wraps are perfect for a quick and easy lunch or a satisfying snack.

* Greek Chicken Tender Skewers: Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers with cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, and red onion for a colorful and flavorful appetizer or main course. Grill or bake them until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.

* Lemon Herb Rice Bowl: Serve the tenders over a bed of fluffy lemon herb rice, drizzled with extra virgin olive oil and sprinkled with fresh parsley. Add a side of roasted vegetables for a complete and balanced meal.

* Spicy Greek Chicken Tenders: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade for a little extra kick.

* Air Fryer Greek Chicken Tenders: For a healthier option, air fry the tenders until they are golden brown and crispy. This method reduces the amount of oil needed while still delivering a delicious result.

I truly believe that once you try this recipe, it will become a staple in your rotation. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, casual gatherings, or even a fancy dinner party. The vibrant flavors and simple preparation make it a winner every time.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, put on some Greek music (optional, but highly encouraged!), and get ready to experience the magic of these Greek Chicken Tenders. I’m confident you’ll love them as much as I do.

And most importantly, don’t be shy! I’d absolutely love to hear about your experience making this recipe. Share your photos, tips, and variations in the comments below. Let me know what you think and how you made it your own. Happy cooking, and *Opa!* to delicious food and good times! I can’t wait to see your culinary creations!