Description
This Greek Chicken Tenders recipe features tender chicken pieces marinated in a zesty mix of Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and oregano, then grilled or baked to juicy perfection. Perfect for a flavorful and healthy meal that captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Marinade
- 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
- Prepare the Marinade: In a mixing bowl, combine Greek yogurt, olive oil, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Whisk thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken tenders to the bowl with the marinade, making sure each piece is fully coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to infuse, or up to 2 hours for more intense flavor.
- Preheat Cooking Surface: If grilling, preheat your grill pan over medium heat. Alternatively, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) if baking.
- Cook the Chicken: Remove the marinated chicken from the fridge and shake off any excess marinade. For grilling, cook the tenders on the grill pan for 5-7 minutes on each side until cooked through and nicely charred. For baking, place the chicken on a parchment-lined baking tray and bake for 20-25 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the chicken is cooked through.
- Rest and Serve: Let the cooked chicken tenders rest for a few minutes to retain juices. Garnish with fresh parsley or dill if desired, and serve warm for a delicious Mediterranean-inspired meal.
Notes
- Marinating the chicken longer enhances the flavor and tenderness.
- Ground cumin is optional but adds a subtle earthiness that complements the Greek flavors.
- Ensure chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for food safety.
- You can substitute chicken breast slices if tenders are unavailable.
- Serve with a side of Greek salad, rice pilaf, or pita bread for a complete meal.
Keywords: Greek chicken tenders, grilled chicken, Mediterranean chicken, chicken marinade, healthy chicken recipe, Greek yogurt marinade