Name: Greek Chicken Tenders Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 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; 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)

Jump to Recipe

Juicy, bright, and incredibly flavorful, these Greek Chicken Tenders are the ultimate answer whenever you crave something healthy yet bold and satisfying. Bursting with Mediterranean zest from garlic, fresh lemon, oregano, and a whisper of smoked paprika, this recipe turns simple ingredients into a true flavor adventure. Whether you’re planning a lively weeknight dinner or prepping an easy lunchbox protein, Greek Chicken Tenders promise to shine with their beautiful golden color, tender bite, and irresistible aroma. If you’ve never tried homemade Greek Chicken Tenders, you’re in for a real treat!

Greek Chicken Tenders Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient here matters, and together they create that signature taste and color that makes Greek Chicken Tenders a standout favorite. Don’t be tempted to skip anything — each brings its own magic to the dish.

Chicken breasts: Boneless and skinless, these slice into perfect tenders, providing a juicy, protein-packed base.
Olive oil: Not only adds depth and richness, but also helps tenderize the chicken during the marinade.
Fresh garlic: Four whole cloves infuse the tenders with classic Mediterranean aroma and punchy flavor.
Lemon juice: Adds brightness and that mouthwatering tang — always use freshly squeezed for the best results.
Dried oregano: A true Greek herb, it delivers earthiness and classic aroma that defines the recipe.
Salt: Enhances every spice and brings balance — don’t skimp!
Black pepper: Lends subtle heat and depth that lingers on every bite.
Smoked paprika: The secret weapon; it adds color and a gentle smoky warmth without overpowering.

How to Make Greek Chicken Tenders

Step 1: Mix Your Marinade

Start by grabbing your favorite medium-sized mixing bowl and whisking together the olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. This punchy marinade is the heart of Greek Chicken Tenders; let those aromas wake up your taste buds as you mix!

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Slice your chicken breasts into even strips before adding them to the bowl. Toss them in the marinade until every tender is coated in flavor. Cover the bowl and pop it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. If you have the time, let them marinate for up to four hours — the longer, the more mouthwatering the result!

Step 3: Fire Up the Grill or Oven

When you’re ready, preheat your grill to medium-high or set your oven to 400°F (200°C). These Greek Chicken Tenders cook up beautifully either way, so use whichever method fits your plans tonight!

Step 4: Cook the Greek Chicken Tenders

If grilling, lay the tenders on a hot, lightly oiled grate and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. If baking, arrange them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and roast, flipping once, until they reach 165°F (75°C) inside. You’ll fall in love with their golden hue and the irresistible smell wafting through your kitchen.

Step 5: Rest & Serve

Remove the tenders and let them rest for 5 minutes — this helps lock in every drop of juice. Serve these beauties hot with your favorite dipping sauces or a pile of crisp veggies. You’ve just made Greek Chicken Tenders that look and taste fantastic!

How to Serve Greek Chicken Tenders

Garnishes

Add a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley, a drizzle of extra lemon juice, or even a dusting of feta cheese for a signature Greek flair. These simple touches amplify both visual appeal and zesty flavor, making your Greek Chicken Tenders irresistible from the very first glance.

Side Dishes

You can’t go wrong with a crisp Greek salad filled with tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and a tangy vinaigrette. Fluffy pita bread, creamy tzatziki, or lemon-roasted potatoes all pair beautifully with the bright flavors in your tenders. It’s Mediterranean comfort food at its finest!

Creative Ways to Present

Turn Greek Chicken Tenders into party-ready bites by skewering them for easy serving or pile them onto a platter with dipping sauces for a crowd-pleasing appetizer. Tuck them into warm pita wraps with veggies for a fun, handheld meal, or slice them up over rice bowls for healthy lunches.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Transfer any extra Greek Chicken Tenders to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to three days. Their flavor only deepens overnight, making leftovers a delicious treat for quick lunches or snacks.

Freezing

To freeze, let your cooked tenders cool completely, then stack them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to two months — just be sure to defrost in the fridge before reheating to keep them tender.

Reheating

Gently reheat your Greek Chicken Tenders in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes. This method keeps them juicy inside and prevents dryness. For single servings, a quick zap in the microwave works too, but keep an eye out so they don’t overcook.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless thighs make deliciously juicy Greek Chicken Tenders. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may need a couple of extra minutes to reach the right temperature.

What if I don’t have smoked paprika?

While smoked paprika adds a lovely touch, you can substitute regular paprika for color or try a dash of chili powder for a bit more warmth. The magic really comes from the lemon, garlic, and herbs!

How long should I marinate the chicken?

Marinate for at least 30 minutes for flavorful tenders, but for the boldest taste, aim for 2 to 4 hours. If you’re pressed for time, even a short soak will help, but don’t leave them for more than four hours, or the lemon juice may start to “cook” the chicken.

Can I make Greek Chicken Tenders in advance for meal prep?

Definitely! These keep well in the fridge and are just as tasty hot or cold. Slice and portion with your favorite sides or salads for easy, healthy grab-and-go lunches all week long.

Are Greek Chicken Tenders gluten-free?

They are naturally gluten-free as written, so they’re perfect for anyone avoiding gluten. Just double check any sides or sauces you serve with them to keep your meal 100 percent gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

Once you try these Greek Chicken Tenders, you’ll find yourself making them on repeat. They’re quick, packed with feel-good flavor, and endlessly versatile. I hope you enjoy sharing this sunny, Mediterranean classic just as much as I do — happy cooking!

Greek Chicken Tenders Recipe

★★★★★

5.2 from 28 reviews

Author: Olivia
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

These Greek Chicken Tenders are a flavorful and easy-to-make dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a summer barbecue. Marinated in a blend of olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and herbs, these chicken tenders are juicy and delicious.

Ingredients

Scale

Marinade:

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

Chicken:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)

Instructions

In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, salt, pepper, and paprika. This flavorful marinade will be the key to tender and juicy chicken tenders.
Add chicken breasts to the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (up to 4 hours). Marinating allows the flavors to infuse into the chicken, enhancing its taste.
Preheat grill to medium-high or oven to 400°F (200°C). Make sure your cooking surface is ready for the chicken tenders.
Grill or bake chicken tenders for 6-7 minutes per side until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and are golden brown. Cooking time may vary based on your cooking method and thickness of the chicken.
Allow chicken to rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve with your favorite dipping sauces or fresh veggies. Resting the chicken helps retain its juices for a more succulent bite.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Grilling, Baking
Cuisine: Greek