Crispy Greek Chicken Tenders for Quick Dinners

Crispy Greek Chicken Tenders for Quick Dinners

Crispy Greek Chicken Tenders are a flavorful twist on a classic weeknight favorite. These juicy tenders are marinated in a zesty blend of lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, and Mediterranean herbs, then coated in a light, crunchy crust and pan-fried or oven-baked to golden perfection. Packed with bold Greek flavors and ready in under 30 minutes, they’re perfect for dipping, stuffing into pitas, or serving over salads or rice bowls. Quick, crispy, and delicious — dinner made easy with a Mediterranean flair!.

Time:

• Prep: 15 minutes

• Marinate: 20–30 minutes (optional for deeper flavor)

• Cook: 15 minutes

• Serves: 4

Ingredients:

For the Marinade:

• 1 ½ lbs (680 g) chicken tenders or sliced boneless chicken breast

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• Juice of 1 lemon

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• ½ tsp ground cumin

• ½ tsp paprika

• Salt & pepper to taste

For the Crispy Coating:

• ½ cup all-purpose flour

• 2 large eggs, beaten

• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs

• 1 tsp dried parsley or oregano (optional)

• ½ tsp garlic powder

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan (optional, but adds a nice touch)

To Cook:

• Olive oil or avocado oil, for frying or spraying

• Fresh lemon wedges & tzatziki, for serving

Instructions:

1. Marinate the Chicken (Optional but Recommended):
   In a bowl, combine chicken with olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss well, cover, and marinate for at least 20 minutes or up to 2 hours in the fridge.

2. Prepare Coating Station:
   Set up three shallow bowls:

   • One with flour

   • One with beaten eggs

   • One with panko mixed with garlic powder, dried herbs, and Parmesan (if using)

3. Coat the Chicken:
   Dredge each chicken tender in flour, dip into egg, then coat with the panko mixture. Press gently to help the coating stick.

4. Cook the Tenders:

   • Stovetop: Heat a layer of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.

   • Oven: Preheat to 425°F (220°C). Place tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment and lightly oiled. Bake for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

   • Air Fryer: Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through.

5. Serve:
   Garnish with fresh lemon wedges and serve with tzatziki or over a Greek salad, rice, or in pita wraps.

Tips:

• Add a sprinkle of crumbled feta before serving for extra Greek flair.

• Want it spicy? Add a pinch of cayenne to the marinade or coating.