If you’re craving a flavorful twist on a classic favorite, this Greek Chicken Tenders Recipe is an absolute must-try. Juicy, tender chicken slices soaked in a vibrant medley of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and aromatic herbs make every bite a delightful experience. It’s a perfect dish that infuses simple ingredients with the timeless tastes of Greek cuisine, offering a quick yet impressive meal that feels like a mini culinary getaway at your dinner table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps things straightforward with just a handful of essential ingredients, each adding its own special note to the overall flavor and texture. From the richness of olive oil to the earthy punch of oregano, every component plays a crucial role in creating that authentic Greek vibe.
- 12 oz boneless chicken breasts or tenders: Opt for tender cuts to guarantee juicy results that cook evenly.
- 1 Tablespoon olive oil: Adds a silky richness that complements the herbs beautifully.
- 1 Tablespoon balsamic vinegar: Brings a subtle tang and sweetness for depth.
- ½ teaspoon crushed dried oregano: The quintessential Greek herb that infuses aromatic earthiness.
- ½ teaspoon thyme: Provides a gentle herbal note enhancing complexity.
- ½ teaspoon minced garlic: Adds a savory punch that harmonizes perfectly with the marinade.
- â…› teaspoon salt (optional): Balances all flavors and helps the chicken retain moisture.
- Dash of black pepper (optional): Gives a subtle spicy kick without overpowering.
- 1 teaspoon olive oil: For cooking, ensures a golden, crisp finish on the chicken.
How to Make Greek Chicken Tenders Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by slicing your chicken breasts or tenders into thin, even pieces. This ensures they cook quickly and absorb the marinade evenly. Keeping the slices uniform helps in achieving that perfect, golden-brown exterior without drying out the meat.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Next, combine all ingredients—except for the 1 teaspoon of olive oil used for cooking—into a large reclosable plastic bag. Seal it tightly and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to a full day for deeper flavor infusion. The magic happens here, as the balsamic vinegar and herbs tenderize and infuse the chicken with that signature Greek flair.
Step 3: Cook to Perfection
When ready to cook, heat 1 teaspoon of olive oil in a skillet or pan over medium heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade (discard the marinade itself) and cook the tenders for about 7 to 10 minutes, turning occasionally until all sides are golden brown and the internal temperature hits 165 degrees Fahrenheit. This step locks in juiciness while creating a beautiful crust bursting with flavor.
How to Serve Greek Chicken Tenders Recipe
Garnishes
Serving these tenders with freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese adds a pop of color and creamy contrast. A wedge of lemon on the side brightens the palate and complements the savory herbs beautifully.
Side Dishes
Pair your Greek Chicken Tenders with classic sides such as fluffy lemon rice, crispy roasted potatoes, or a fresh Greek salad loaded with cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and red onion. These sides echo the Mediterranean theme perfectly and balance the meal wonderfully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try wrapping these tenders in warm pita bread with tzatziki sauce, sliced cucumbers, and tomatoes. Alternatively, serve them atop a bed of quinoa or alongside grilled vegetables to turn this simple dish into a chef-worthy feast that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to your taste buds.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers, place them in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator. Greek Chicken Tenders stay moist and flavorful for up to 3 days when properly refrigerated.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked tenders for up to 2 months. Lay them flat in a freezer-safe container or wrap individually in foil for easy portioning and quick thawing.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 350°F until heated through to keep the tender texture intact without drying them out. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can cause uneven heating and toughness.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for this Greek Chicken Tenders Recipe?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs offer a bit more fat and can be even juicier, but you’ll want to adjust cooking time accordingly to ensure they’re cooked through.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
While 30 minutes is the minimum to infuse flavor, letting it marinate for a few hours or overnight deepens the taste and tenderizes the chicken further for the best results.
Is balsamic vinegar necessary in this recipe?
Balsamic vinegar adds a subtle sweetness and acidity that balances the herbs and garlic; however, you can swap it for red wine vinegar if needed, though the flavor will be slightly different.
Can I bake this instead of pan-frying?
Yes, baking at 400°F for about 15 to 20 minutes works well; just be sure to flip halfway through for even browning.
What’s the best way to ensure chicken tenders don’t dry out?
Cutting the chicken into thin slices and marinating helps keep them moist. Cooking them at a moderate temperature until just reaching 165°F prevents overcooking and drying out.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a dish that feels both simple and sophisticated, and this Greek Chicken Tenders Recipe hits that sweet spot perfectly. It’s a delightful way to bring a burst of Mediterranean sunshine to your table with minimal fuss and maximum flavor. I encourage you to give it a go—you might just find your new weeknight favorite!
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Greek Chicken Tenders Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Greek
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Greek Chicken Tenders recipe features tender, marinated chicken slices infused with classic Mediterranean flavors like oregano, thyme, and garlic. Marinated to perfection and pan-cooked until golden brown, these chicken tenders offer a quick, healthy, and delicious meal option perfect for a nutritious weekday dinner or meal prep.
Ingredients
Chicken and Marinade
- 12 oz boneless chicken breasts or tenders
- 1 Tablespoon olive oil
- 1 Tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- ½ teaspoon crushed dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon thyme
- ½ teaspoon minced garlic
- â…› teaspoon salt (optional)
- Dash black pepper (optional)
For Cooking
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
Instructions
- Slice Chicken: Slice the boneless chicken breasts or tenders into thin, evenly sized pieces to ensure quick and uniform cooking.
- Marinate Chicken: In a large reclosable plastic bag, combine the sliced chicken with 1 tablespoon olive oil, balsamic vinegar, dried oregano, thyme, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 1 day to allow the flavors to infuse.
- Cook Chicken: Heat 1 teaspoon of olive oil in a skillet or pan over medium heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, discarding any leftover marinade. Cook the chicken pieces in the hot pan until golden brown on all sides and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (approximately 7-10 minutes).
- Storage: After cooking, store any leftover chicken tenders in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
Notes
- Marinating the chicken overnight enhances the flavor significantly.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is safely cooked to 165°F internal temperature.
- Serve with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
- For a gluten-free meal, verify that the balsamic vinegar and other ingredients are gluten-free.
- Leftover chicken tenders can be used in wraps, salads, or sandwiches.
