Description
This Greek Chicken Tenders recipe features tender chicken marinated in a vibrant blend of Greek yogurt, lemon, garlic, and oregano, offering a flavorful and healthy twist on classic chicken. Perfect for grilling or baking, these chicken tenders are juicy, aromatic, and ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.
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 Marinade: In a mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper (and cumin if using). Whisk the ingredients thoroughly until the marinade is smooth and well blended, ensuring all flavors are evenly incorporated.
- Marinate Chicken: Add the chicken tenders to the bowl with the marinade and toss them well to coat each piece evenly. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours to allow the flavors to infuse into the chicken.
- Preheat Cooking Equipment: For grilling, preheat your grill pan over medium heat. Alternatively, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) if you choose to bake the chicken.
- Cook Chicken: Remove the chicken tenders from the marinade, shaking off any excess, and discard leftover marinade. If grilling, place chicken tenders on the heated grill pan and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side until they are fully cooked and have nice grill marks. If baking, arrange the chicken tenders on a parchment-lined baking tray and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until cooked through and slightly golden.
- Rest and Serve: After cooking, let the chicken tenders rest for a few minutes to allow juices to redistribute. Garnish with fresh parsley or dill if desired, and serve warm for a delicious Greek-inspired meal.
Notes
- Marinating longer (up to 2 hours) enhances flavor and tenderness.
- Use fresh herbs for garnish to add a color and fresh aroma.
- Ground cumin is optional but adds a warm earthy flavor if preferred.
- Make sure chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.
- Can be served with pita, tzatziki, or a Greek salad for a fuller meal.
Keywords: Greek chicken tenders, grilled chicken, lemon chicken, yogurt marinade, healthy chicken recipe, quick dinner, Mediterranean chicken