Flavorful Mediterranean Chicken Tenders Recipe
Introduction
Discover the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean with this easy and quick chicken tenders recipe. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, these tender pieces are packed with herbs and spices that bring a fresh and savory taste to your table.
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken tenders
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 lemon, juiced
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Step 1: In a bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, paprika, salt, pepper, and lemon juice to create the marinade.
- Step 2: Add chicken tenders to the marinade, tossing well to coat evenly. Let them marinate for at least 15 minutes.
- Step 3: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken tenders in a single layer, cooking for 3-4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.
- Step 4: Remove chicken from the skillet and let rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken for up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
- Serve with a side of tzatziki sauce or a fresh Greek salad for a complete Mediterranean meal.
- Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into strips if tenders aren’t available.
Storage
Store leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave to avoid drying out the meat.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I bake the chicken tenders instead of pan-frying?
Yes, you can bake the chicken tenders at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Can I prepare the marinade in advance?
Absolutely. The marinade can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just add the chicken when ready to marinate and cook.
PrintFlavorful Mediterranean Chicken Tenders Recipe
This Flavorful Mediterranean Chicken Tenders recipe offers a quick and easy way to enjoy a healthy dinner packed with vibrant Mediterranean flavors. Tender chicken strips are marinated in a zesty blend of lemon, garlic, and herbs, then pan-seared to perfection for a juicy and delicious meal that can be ready in just 30 minutes.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 10 mins
- Total Time: 25 mins
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade
- 1 lb (450g) chicken tenders
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Serving
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
- Lemon wedges
- Optional: Tzatziki sauce or hummus
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a medium bowl, combine the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Whisk together until well mixed to create the marinade.
- Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken tenders to the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes, or up to 1 hour for enhanced flavor.
- Heat the Skillet: Preheat a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Cook the Chicken: Place the marinated chicken tenders in the skillet in a single layer. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has a golden-brown crust. Cooking time may vary depending on thickness.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken tenders from the skillet and let them rest for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges. Optionally, accompany with tzatziki sauce or hummus for added Mediterranean flair.
Notes
- For a gluten-free option, ensure all seasoning spices are certified gluten free.
- Chicken can be marinated overnight for even deeper flavor.
- Serve with a side of Greek salad or pita bread to complete the Mediterranean meal.
- If you prefer baking, cook the marinated chicken tenders at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Keywords: Mediterranean chicken tenders, easy chicken dinner, quick chicken recipe, healthy chicken tenders, lemon garlic chicken, pan-seared chicken
