Greek Chicken Tenders
Flavorful and healthy chicken tenders marinated in olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and spices, perfect for grilling or baking.
Ingredients
For the marinade
- 3 tbsp olive oil Extra virgin for better flavor.
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced Freshly minced garlic enhances flavor.
- 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice Use fresh lemons for the best taste.
- 2 tsp dried oregano Mediterranean flavor.
- 1 tsp salt Adjust according to taste.
- 1/2 tsp black pepper Freshly ground black pepper is preferred.
- 1 tsp smoked paprika For a subtle smokiness.
For the chicken
- 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs) Ensure they are of even size for uniform cooking.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika until well combined.
- Add the chicken breasts to the bowl, ensuring they are fully coated with the marinade. Use your hands to massage the marinade into the chicken for better flavor absorption.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the chicken and marinade into a resealable plastic bag. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor.
Cooking
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat or your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- For grilling, remove the chicken from the marinade, shaking off excess. Grill for about 6-7 minutes on each side, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the chicken has a golden-brown exterior.
- For baking, place marinated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway, until reaching the safe internal temperature.
- Allow the chicken to rest for about 5 minutes before slicing to retain juices.
Notes
Serve with Greek salad, tzatziki sauce, or in pita with roasted vegetables for a complete meal. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze properly for longer storage.