Greek Chicken Tenders are like a Mediterranean vacation for your taste buds, infused with zesty lemon, fragrant herbs, and a hint of garlic that fills the air with mouthwatering aromas. Imagine biting into juicy chicken that’s marinated to perfection, each tender piece bursting with flavor—it’s a culinary experience you won’t want to miss!

Picture this: a sunny afternoon barbecue where friends gather around, laughing and sharing stories while indulging in these delectable Greek Chicken Tenders. The vibrant colors of the dish light up the table, making it the star of the show. With every bite, you’ll be transported to a quaint taverna by the sea, promising an unforgettable flavor journey.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This amazing Greek chicken marinade offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
- Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.
Ingredients for Greek Chicken Tenders
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 1.5 pounds for optimal tenderness; adjust based on your crowd size.
Fresh Garlic: Select firm cloves for maximum flavor; minced garlic adds an extra kick.
Olive Oil: A good-quality extra virgin olive oil enhances the marinade and keeps the chicken moist.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens up the flavors, making everything zingy and refreshing.
Dried Oregano: This classic herb brings that unmistakable Greek flair; fresh is great too if you prefer.
For the Sauce:
Greek Yogurt: Use plain yogurt as a creamy base for a delicious dipping sauce that pairs perfectly.
Cucumber: Grated cucumber adds freshness and crunch to your sauce; it’s like summer in your mouth!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Greek Chicken Tenders
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by placing your chicken breasts in a large bowl or resealable bag. Add minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Seal it tight and give it a good shake! Let it marinate in the fridge for at least one hour—longer if you can wait (up to overnight is ideal).
Step 2: Preheat Your Cooking Device
If you’re grilling those tenders (which I highly recommend), preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F). For baking lovers out there, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a baking dish with nonstick spray.
Step 3: Prepare Your Sauce
While you wait for that chicken to soak up all those scrumptious flavors, grab a small bowl. Mix together Greek yogurt and grated cucumber—add some salt, pepper, and maybe even a pinch of dill if you’re feeling fancy! Stir until smooth and set aside.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Once marinated to perfection (and you’ve got everyone salivating), it’s time to cook! Grill each tender for about 5-7 minutes per side until they’re golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach at least 165°F). If baking instead, arrange them in your prepared dish and bake for about 20-25 minutes.
Step 5: Serve It Up
Transfer those gorgeous Greek Chicken Tenders onto a serving platter. Drizzle generously with your creamy yogurt sauce—the perfect finishing touch. Garnish with fresh herbs or lemon slices for that extra pizzazz.
These Greek Chicken Tenders are sure winners at any gathering or family dinner—because let’s face it: who doesn’t love juicy chicken paired with delightful flavors? Enjoy every bite!
You Must Know
- This amazing greek chicken marinade offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
- Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating your Greek chicken tenders for at least an hour. While they soak in all that goodness, prep your sides. Sear the chicken first, then cook your veggies or grains while keeping an eye on that delicious golden crust.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to jazz up this recipe with your favorite herbs like dill or oregano, or swap out lemon for lime juice if you’re feeling zesty. Add some feta cheese or olives for a Mediterranean twist, making each bite an adventure.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftover Greek chicken tenders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop them in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, ensuring they stay juicy and flavorful.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh herbs for maximum flavor; dried herbs can work but won’t provide that zingy freshness.
- Marinate overnight if possible; it lets the flavors really sink in.
- Always let the chicken rest after cooking to keep it tender and juicy.
The first time I made Greek chicken tenders, my friends devoured them faster than I could plate them. Their raving reviews inspired me to create this recipe and share it with you all!
FAQs:
What are Greek Chicken Tenders?
Greek chicken tenders are marinated strips of chicken breast seasoned with traditional Greek flavors like oregano, garlic, and lemon. They are typically grilled or baked for a deliciously tender and flavorful dish. This recipe is perfect for quick meals, appetizers, or even served over salads.
How do I marinate Greek Chicken Tenders?
To marinate Greek chicken tenders, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Add the chicken tenders to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse. For best results, marinate them for several hours or overnight.
Can I bake Greek Chicken Tenders instead of grilling?
Yes, you can bake Greek chicken tenders. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the marinated chicken tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Baking gives you a healthier option without sacrificing flavor.
What should I serve with Greek Chicken Tenders?
Greek chicken tenders pair well with various sides. Serve them with tzatziki sauce for dipping or alongside a fresh Greek salad with tomatoes, cucumber, and feta cheese. You can also enjoy them in a pita wrap with veggies and yogurt sauce for a satisfying meal.
Conclusion for Greek Chicken Tenders:
In summary, Greek chicken tenders are a delightful dish full of vibrant flavors and tender texture. Marinating them enhances their taste while keeping preparation simple and quick. Whether grilled or baked, these tenders make an excellent addition to any meal or gathering. Enjoy them as an appetizer, entrée, or even in wraps!
Greek Chicken Tenders
Greek Chicken Tenders offer a vibrant taste of the Mediterranean, featuring juicy chicken marinated with zesty lemon, aromatic herbs, and garlic. Perfect for any occasion, these tenders can be grilled or baked and are served with a refreshing yogurt sauce that amplifies their deliciousness. Experience a delightful culinary adventure that will impress family and friends alike.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling/Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tbsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For the Sauce:
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup grated cucumber
Instructions
- 1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl or resealable bag, combine chicken, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper. Seal and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (up to overnight).
- 2. Preheat: Grill at medium-high heat (375°F) or preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- 3. Make the Sauce: In a bowl, mix Greek yogurt and grated cucumber; season with salt and pepper.
- 4. Cook the Chicken: Grill for 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown (internal temperature of 165°F). For baking, place on a greased dish for 20-25 minutes.
- 5. Serve: Transfer to a platter, drizzle with yogurt sauce, and garnish with fresh herbs.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (113g)
- Calories: 275
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 29g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: Customize your marinade with fresh herbs like dill for added flavor. Serve alongside tzatziki sauce or a Greek salad for a complete meal. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.