If you’re looking for a dish that’s both comforting and packed full of Mediterranean flavor, Crispy Greek Chicken Tenders are about to become your new kitchen hero. These tenders are everything you want in a weeknight dinner: bold, herby, juicy on the inside, with a shatteringly crisp crust on the outside. The marinated chicken soaks up Greek-inspired goodness before being coated in a golden, Parmesan-laced panko for crunch that rivals any takeout. This is a crowd-pleaser you’ll want on repeat!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role, building layers of flavor and ensuring every bite of these tenders is deliciously vibrant. Nothing here is complicated, but together, they make magic happen in your oven.
- Boneless, skinless chicken tenders (1 ½ pounds): These cook quickly and stay wonderfully juicy, plus they’re perfect for picking up every bit of the zesty marinade.
- Plain Greek yogurt (1 cup): The secret to tangy, moist chicken—Greek yogurt tenderizes and adds classic Mediterranean creaminess.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Gives richness to the marinade and helps crisp up the coating while baking.
- Lemon juice (1 tablespoon): Adds a burst of fresh citrus that brightens everything up.
- Red wine vinegar (1 tablespoon): Balances the yogurt and olive oil with gentle acidity.
- Garlic cloves, minced (3): Because is it Greek cuisine Main Course
- Dried oregano (1 tablespoon): Classic Greek flavor—earthy, herby, and essential.
- Salt (1 teaspoon): Brings out every flavor, from the sharp cheese to the vibrant herbs.
- Black pepper (½ teaspoon): For just enough warmth and a touch of bite.
- Panko breadcrumbs (1 ½ cups): For irresistible crunch that doesn’t go soggy, even after baking.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (½ cup): Melts into the crust, adding salty, cheesy depth and a beautiful golden color.
- Dried thyme (1 teaspoon): Gives extra fragrance and earthiness for a more complex flavor.
- Olive oil spray or drizzle: A light layer over the tenders ensures a crunchy finish straight from the oven.
How to Make Crispy Greek Chicken Tenders
Step 1: Whip Up the Marinade
In a large bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and black pepper until the mixture is smooth and well blended. This zingy, creamy marinade is key for locking in juiciness and infusing your chicken with classic Greek flavor from the get-go.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Add the chicken tenders to your bowl and toss to coat every piece evenly with the marinade. Cover and let them chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes—or stretch it out to 4 hours if you want deeper flavor. Marinating means flavor all the way through, not just on the surface.
Step 3: Prepare the Crunchy Coating
While the chicken is soaking up the goodness, grab a shallow dish and combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, and dried thyme. This trio forms an ultra-crisp, golden crust that’s actually sturdy enough for dunking into your favorite sauce afterward!
Step 4: Coat the Tenders
Once marinated, remove each chicken tender and let the excess marinade drip off—too much will make the crumbs soggy. Then press every piece firmly into the panko mixture, making sure the coating sticks all over. Lay the coated tenders out on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Give the lined-up tenders a light spray or drizzle of olive oil (this is the secret to extra-crisp results). Slide them into a preheated oven at 425°F and bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway, until beautifully browned and cooked through. For next-level crunch, broil for 2–3 final minutes—just keep an eye on them so they don’t go too far!
How to Serve Crispy Greek Chicken Tenders
Garnishes
For a truly irresistible plate, garnish your tenders with a handful of chopped fresh parsley, a squeeze of lemon, or a dusting of extra Parmesan. Even a quick hit of sumac or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds can add a Mediterranean twist and a pop of color.
Side Dishes
Crispy Greek Chicken Tenders play beautifully with classic sides. Serve them alongside a big Greek salad, roasted potatoes, or warm pita bread. Creamy tzatziki, tangy hummus, or a lemon-yogurt dip for dunking bring the whole meal together and let everyone customize their bites.
Creative Ways to Present
Set up a platter alongside various dips, or tuck the tenders into wraps with crunchy slaw and feta. For parties, slice them onto skewers or arrange over a mezze platter loaded with olives and grilled veggies to show off those golden edges. There’s no wrong way to enjoy these flavor bombs!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftover Crispy Greek Chicken Tenders (a rare occurrence in my house!), cool them completely before storing in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll keep their flavor and texture for up to 3 days, making them a great meal prep staple.
Freezing
The good news: these tenders freeze incredibly well. After baking, let them cool, then spread out on a sheet pan to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer bag. This way, they won’t stick together, and you can grab as many as you need for a quick meal later.
Reheating
To keep the crust deliciously crisp, reheat Crispy Greek Chicken Tenders in a preheated oven or air fryer for a few minutes at 375°F. Avoid the microwave if you can, as it tends to soften the coating.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breast instead of tenders?
Absolutely! Just slice boneless, skinless chicken breasts into strips that are similar in size to tenders. They’ll marinate and bake just as beautifully and still soak up every bit of flavor from that Greek-inspired marinade.
What’s the best dip to serve with Crispy Greek Chicken Tenders?
Tzatziki is a classic choice and pairs perfectly with these tenders, but don’t stop there—hummus, a lemony Greek yogurt dip, or even a smoky harissa mayo are fantastic options for dipping.
Can I make these gluten free?
Yes! Simply swap the panko breadcrumbs for your favorite gluten-free variety. Everything else in the recipe is naturally gluten free, so it’s an easy switch for anyone with dietary needs.
What if I don’t have Parmesan cheese?
If you’re out of Parmesan, Pecorino Romano works wonderfully, or you can skip the cheese for a completely dairy-free crust. The panko and herbs will still create a super crisp exterior.
How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?
The most reliable way is to use a digital thermometer—the tenders are ready when their internal temperature hits 165°F. If you don’t have a thermometer, cut into one; the meat should be opaque and the juices should run clear.
Final Thoughts
You truly can’t go wrong with a tray of Crispy Greek Chicken Tenders—especially when you want something healthy but crave-worthy. Gather your favorite dips, round up the side dishes, and embrace that golden crunch and those bright Mediterranean flavors. Give this recipe a try, and watch them vanish faster than you can say “opa!”
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Crispy Greek Chicken Tenders Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These Crispy Greek Chicken Tenders are a flavorful and healthy twist on a classic favorite. Marinated in Greek yogurt and herbs, then coated in a crispy breadcrumb mixture, these tender chicken strips are baked to golden perfection. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a tasty appetizer.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Tenders:
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken tenders
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
For the Coating:
- 1 ½ cups panko breadcrumbs
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- olive oil spray or drizzle for baking
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, mix Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add chicken tenders, toss to coat, cover, and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 4 hours.
- Prepare for Baking: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a shallow dish, combine panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and thyme.
- Coat and Bake: Remove chicken from marinade, coat in breadcrumb mixture, place on baking sheet, and lightly spray with olive oil. Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and fully cooked.
- Serve: Enjoy hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, broil the tenders for 2–3 minutes at the end of baking.
- You can use chicken breast strips if tenders are not available.
- Pair with tzatziki, hummus, or a lemon-yogurt dip.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Greek
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3–4 tenders
- Calories: 365
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 610mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
