Delightful Greek Chicken Tenders Recipe
Greek Chicken Tenders Recipe: Juicy and Flavorful Delight
If you’re looking for a delicious and healthy dinner option, Greek chicken tenders are an excellent choice. Packed with flavor from fresh garlic, lemon, and herbs, these tender morsels are perfect for family meals or gatherings. With a simple marinade that elevates the taste of chicken, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Why Make This Recipe
Greek chicken tenders are not just easy to prepare; they offer a burst of Mediterranean flavor that enhances the natural taste of the chicken. The marinade combines the zesty lemon with aromatic herbs, making each bite refreshing and satisfying. This dish is also versatile—serve it as a main dish, a protein-packed salad topping, or as part of a meze platter. Plus, it is healthy and can fit into various dietary preferences!
How to Make Greek Chicken Tenders
This section will guide you through the straightforward process of preparing Greek chicken tenders. With just a few simple steps, you’ll be enjoying this delicious dish in no time.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 2 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
Directions
- In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, salt, pepper, and paprika. This mixture will serve as your marinade.
- Add the chicken breasts to the marinade, making sure each piece is fully coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for a deeper flavor.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high or your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Grill or bake the chicken tenders for 6-7 minutes on each side until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and have a golden brown color.
- Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This helps keep the tenders juicy.
How to Serve Greek Chicken Tenders
Greek chicken tenders can be served in a variety of ways. For a traditional approach, serve them with tzatziki sauce for dipping or alongside a fresh Greek salad. You could also pile them onto pita bread with veggies for a delicious wrap, or serve them over a bed of rice or quinoa for a wholesome meal.
How to Store Greek Chicken Tenders
If you have leftovers, store the chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in the oven at 350°F until heated through, or microwave them on a low setting.
Tips to Make Greek Chicken Tenders
- Marinate Longer: For maximum flavor, let the chicken marinate for 3-4 hours. Overnight is even better!
- Grill Marks: For perfect grill marks, avoid moving the chicken around too much while grilling.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and garlic can make a significant difference in taste!
Variations
Feel free to customize this recipe! You can add other herbs like thyme or rosemary, or spice it up with a pinch of cayenne pepper. For a sweet touch, consider adding honey to the marinade.
FAQs
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Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
- Yes, chicken thighs will work well for this recipe! They may require a little longer cooking time due to their higher fat content.
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Can I bake these chicken tenders instead of grilling?
- Absolutely! Baking is a great option – just preheat your oven to the recommended temperature and follow the same cooking times.
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What can I serve with Greek chicken tenders?
- They pair well with Greek salad, roasted vegetables, rice, or toasted pita bread. Don’t forget the tzatziki sauce!
Now that you know how to make Greek chicken tenders, it’s time to enjoy a flavorful meal that’s sure to impress your friends and family! Happy cooking!
Greek Chicken Tenders
Ingredients
Chicken and Marinade
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 2 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
Instructions
Preparation
- In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, salt, pepper, and paprika. This mixture will serve as your marinade.
- Add the chicken breasts to the marinade, ensuring each piece is fully coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours for a deeper flavor.
Cooking
- Preheat your grill to medium-high or your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Grill or bake the chicken tenders for 6-7 minutes on each side until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and have a golden brown color.
- Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes before slicing to help keep the tenders juicy.
