Name: Greek Chicken Tenders
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: PT-488385H39M47S
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 1.5 pounds chicken tenders (or sliced chicken breasts); 3 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 teaspoon lemon zest; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and black pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish); Optional: plain Greek yogurt or tzatziki (for serving)

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These Greek Chicken Tenders are a bright, zesty, and flavorful take on a simple chicken dinner. Marinated in a blend of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and classic Mediterranean herbs, the tenders turn out juicy and aromatic every time. Whether I’m serving them with a fresh salad, over rice, or tucked into warm pita bread, they bring a fresh, vibrant taste of Greece right to my kitchen.

Greek Chicken Tenders

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s quick, healthy, and full of flavor. The marinade comes together in minutes and infuses the chicken with a tangy, herby punch that makes each bite irresistible. These tenders cook up in under 15 minutes, making them perfect for weeknight meals, meal prep, or even grilled outside in the summer. Plus, the ingredients are simple and wholesome, but the flavor feels anything but ordinary.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Chicken tenders (or sliced chicken breasts)
Olive oil
Lemon juice and zest
Garlic (minced)
Dried oregano
Dried thyme
Salt and black pepper
Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Optional: plain Greek yogurt (for serving or dipping)

Directions

I start by whisking together olive oil, lemon juice and zest, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
I add the chicken tenders to the marinade, toss to coat, and let them sit for at least 30 minutes—or up to 2 hours in the fridge for more flavor.
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, I cook the chicken tenders for about 3–4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through.
Once done, I let them rest for a minute or two, then garnish with chopped fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice.
I like serving them with a dollop of Greek yogurt or tzatziki on the side, plus rice, salad, or pita.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 servings.

Prep time: 10 minutes
Marinate time: 30 minutes (or longer)
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 40–45 minutes

Variations

Sometimes I grill the tenders instead of pan-searing them for a smoky twist. If I want more creaminess, I stir a spoonful of Greek yogurt into the marinade. I’ve also used fresh herbs like dill or mint for a more intense herbal profile. When I’m serving this for lunch, I wrap them in flatbread with cucumbers, tomatoes, and tzatziki for a quick and tasty Greek-inspired wrap.

storage/reheating

I store leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. They reheat beautifully in a skillet or microwave, though I prefer the skillet for keeping that golden crust. They also taste great cold, sliced over a salad or stuffed into a wrap. For freezing, I let them cool completely and store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.

FAQs

Can I bake the chicken tenders instead of pan-frying?

Yes, I bake them at 400°F (200°C) for about 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway through. They turn out juicy and flavorful with minimal hands-on time.

What’s the best side dish for Greek chicken tenders?

I love pairing them with lemon rice, roasted vegetables, Greek salad, or warm pita and hummus.

Can I use chicken thighs instead?

Absolutely. I’ve used boneless thighs cut into strips—they stay juicy and soak up the marinade beautifully.

Do I have to marinate the chicken?

Marinating is key for flavor, but if I’m in a hurry, even 15–20 minutes gives decent results. The longer they sit, the better they taste.

Is this recipe good for meal prep?

Yes, these reheat well and work perfectly in salads, bowls, or wraps. I often make a double batch and use them throughout the week.

Conclusion

Greek Chicken Tenders are one of my favorite ways to turn simple ingredients into something flavorful and satisfying. The lemon, garlic, and herbs bring a burst of freshness that makes every bite feel light and vibrant. Whether I’m cooking for family or prepping meals for the week, this recipe is quick, versatile, and always delicious.