Name: Greek Chicken Tenders Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs chicken tenders (or sliced chicken breast); 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice; 2 teaspoons lemon zest; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tablespoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; Optional: 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin

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Introduction

These Greek Chicken Tenders are a quick and flavorful meal perfect for busy weeknights. Marinated in a zesty blend of yogurt, lemon, and oregano, they stay tender and juicy whether grilled or baked. Serve with your favorite sides for a taste of the Mediterranean at home.

The dish shows six golden brown fried fish sticks stacked irregularly on a white plate, each coated with a crispy, grainy texture and topped with drizzles of white creamy sauce mixed with green herbs. Around the fish sticks are bright red halved cherry tomatoes with a juicy and shiny surface. There are also small green herb pieces scattered over the fish and sauce, with a few tiny red pepper flakes for a touch of color. A pool of yellow oil or butter is visible at the base, adding a glossy look. The background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1.5 lbs chicken tenders (or sliced chicken breast)
1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
2 teaspoons lemon zest
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Optional: 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin

Instructions

Step 1: In a mixing bowl, combine Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until well blended.
Step 2: Add the chicken tenders to the marinade and ensure they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
Step 3: Preheat your grill pan over medium heat or oven to 400°F (200°C). Remove chicken from marinade and discard excess marinade.
Step 4: Grill for about 5-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked or bake on a parchment-lined tray for about 20-25 minutes.
Step 5: Allow to rest briefly before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or dill if desired.

Tips & Variations

For extra depth, add the optional ground cumin to the marinade for a warm, earthy flavor.
Use chicken breast slices if you prefer thicker pieces, adjusting cooking time accordingly.
Serve with tzatziki sauce or a fresh cucumber salad for a complete Greek-inspired meal.

Storage

Store any leftover cooked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a microwave or on the stovetop to avoid drying out the meat. The marinade is best discarded and should not be reused.

How to Serve

The image shows a white plate with four grilled chicken pieces lined up near the center, each one golden brown with charred spots and sprinkled with green herbs. Small dollops of white creamy sauce are on top of the chicken pieces. To the right side of the chicken, there are several bright red cherry tomatoes, and behind the chicken at the back of the plate is a lemon wedge. The plate sits on a white marbled surface, and the lighting highlights the textures of the grilled chicken and the freshness of the tomatoes. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I marinate the chicken overnight?

Yes, marinating overnight will enhance the flavors even more. Just be sure not to exceed 24 hours to keep the texture tender.

Is it necessary to use Greek yogurt in the marinade?

Greek yogurt adds creaminess and helps tenderize the chicken, but plain regular yogurt can be used as a substitute with similar results.