Greek Chicken Tenders

The aroma of Greek Chicken Tenders wafts through the kitchen, teasing your senses with a blend of zesty lemon, fresh herbs, and savory garlic. fresh chicken taco salad As you prepare to savor this dish, you can almost hear the Mediterranean waves crashing nearby, whisking you away to sun-soaked shores. For more inspiration, check out this Chicken Tenders with Garlic Parmesan recipe.

Picture this: a cozy gathering of friends, laughter filling the air as everyone devours these flavorful tenders. The crispy exterior gives way to tender chicken inside, leaving everyone reaching for just one more bite. flavorful Tex Mex chicken salad Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a festive celebration, these Greek Chicken Tenders are sure to steal the show.

I’ll never forget the first time I made Greek Chicken Tenders for my family. Their wide-eyed delight and chorus of “Mmm” still echo in my memory!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding.
• Fresh Garlic: Choose firm, fresh garlic cloves for the best flavor.
• Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice adds brightness and balances out the savory notes beautifully.
• Dried Oregano: This herb brings that classic Mediterranean flair; don’t skimp on it!
• Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil enhances richness and moisture in the chicken.
• Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings that elevate all flavors; adjust according to taste.

For the Sauce:

• Greek Yogurt: A creamy base that’s perfect for balancing flavors; choose whole milk yogurt for richness.
• Cucumber: Grated cucumber adds freshness and crunch to your sauce; don’t forget to squeeze out excess water!
• Dill or Mint: Fresh herbs elevate your sauce’s flavor profile; use whichever you prefer or have on hand.
• Lemon Zest: A sprinkle of zest brightens up your sauce and ties everything together beautifully.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Before we dive in, gather your ingredients and channel your inner chef! Cooking should be fun, so let’s get started.

Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well combined; it’ll smell heavenly!

Marinate the Chicken: Place your chicken breasts in a resealable bag and pour in that luscious marinade. Seal tightly, shake gently like you’re dancing at a wedding, then refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours.

Preheat Your Grill or Oven: If grilling outdoors sounds appealing (it often does), preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using an oven instead, set it to 400°F (200°C) and prep a baking dish with nonstick spray.

Cook those Tenders!: For grilling: Cook chicken for around 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. For baking: Arrange marinated tenders in your prepared dish and bake for about 20-25 minutes until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Make the Sauce While They Cook!: Combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber (remember to squeeze out excess water), chopped herbs, lemon zest, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Mix well until creamy and refreshing!

Serve & Enjoy!: Once cooked through, remove chicken tenders from heat. Serve hot with your refreshing sauce on the side—prepare for compliments from every corner of your dining area!

These Greek Chicken Tenders are not just a meal; they’re an experience filled with laughter and love!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by marinating the chicken tenders for at least 30 minutes. Cook them in a hot skillet, allowing for a crispy exterior while keeping the inside juicy.

Add Your Touch

Experiment with different herbs like dill or cilantro, and swap lemon juice for lime to switch up flavors. Adding feta cheese right before serving enhances the Greek flair.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover Greek chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat to maintain crispiness.

Sharing this recipe brings back memories of my cousin’s wedding where the Greek chicken tenders stole the show! Everyone couldn’t stop raving about them, making me feel like a culinary rockstar. easy meatball casserole recipe.

FAQ

Can I use frozen chicken tenders?

Yes, but thaw them completely before marinating for better flavor absorption.

What sides pair well with Greek chicken tenders?

Serve them with tzatziki sauce and a side salad for a complete meal. Caprese salad with prosciutto.

How can I make these tenders spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the marinade for extra heat.