Juicy Greek Chicken Tenders
These Juicy Greek Chicken Tenders are marinated in a creamy yogurt‑lemon mixture with garlic and dried herbs, then baked or pan‑fried until golden and tender. Serve with tzatziki, rice, or a fresh Greek‑style salad.
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Baking sheet
- wire rack (optional)
- frying pan
- Meat thermometer
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken tenders or boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into strips
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 medium lemon, juiced about 2–3 tablespoons
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the plain Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, thyme, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and black pepper until smooth and aromatic.
- Add the chicken tenders or chicken strips to the bowl and toss until every piece is evenly coated in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or fit it with a wire rack on top.
- Arrange the marinated chicken tenders in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 15–18 minutes, turning once halfway through, until the chicken is golden and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- If you prefer pan‑frying, heat a little olive oil in a skillet over medium‑high heat. Working in a single layer, cook the chicken tenders for 4–5 minutes per side until deeply browned and cooked through.
- Remove the Juicy Greek Chicken Tenders from the oven or pan and let them rest for 2–3 minutes, then sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley and serve with tzatziki, rice, or a fresh salad.
Notes
- For extra tenderness, trim any excess fat or connective tissue from the chicken tenders before marinating.
- If you increase the thickness of the chicken pieces, slice them in half horizontally so they cook evenly.
- These Juicy Greek Chicken Tenders reheat well in the air fryer or oven but can dry out in the microwave; use lower power and shorter times if needed.