Description
Juicy, bright, and packed with Mediterranean flavor, these Greek chicken tenders are marinated in lemon, garlic, and herbs, then grilled to perfection. A quick, healthy, and crowd-pleasing dinner ideal for summer nights or meal prep.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 1 large lemon)
- 3 garlic cloves, minced or pressed
- 1 1/2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1 1/4 pounds chicken tenders (about 12 pieces; or boneless, skinless chicken breast sliced into strips)
- 1 lemon, cut into wedges (for serving)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Optional: crumbled feta cheese (for serving)
Instructions
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika until well combined. For a smoother marinade, blend in a blender for 30 seconds.
- Place chicken tenders in a large bowl or zip-top bag. Pour marinade over the chicken, turning to coat evenly. Marinate for at least 15 minutes at room temperature or up to 2 hours in the fridge.
- Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high (about 400°F). Lightly oil the grates with a paper towel dipped in oil.
- Using tongs, lay chicken tenders on the grill. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and juices run clear. Total grilling time is about 7-8 minutes.
- Transfer grilled chicken to a serving plate. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and add lemon wedges for squeezing. Optionally, crumble feta cheese over the top.
- For extra flavor, grill lemon halves, cut side down, for 2 minutes until caramelized, then squeeze over chicken before serving.
- Let chicken rest for 2-3 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.
Notes
Do not over-marinate chicken tenders; 15 minutes to 2 hours is ideal. For dairy-free, skip the feta cheese. If grilling isn’t possible, bake at 425°F for 12-15 minutes. Let chicken rest after grilling for juicier results. For extra char, finish with a minute on high heat. The marinade can be adapted with fresh dill, mint, or chili flakes for a twist.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: Greek
Nutrition
- Serving Size: About 3 chicken tenders per serving
- Calories: 220
- Sodium: 400
- Fat: 10
- Saturated Fat: 2
- Carbohydrates: 2
- Protein: 28
Keywords: Greek chicken tenders, grilled chicken, Mediterranean, summer dinner, healthy, easy, gluten-free, meal prep, barbecue, lemon garlic chicken