Flavorful Mediterranean Chicken Tenders Recipe – Easy 30-Min Dinner Recipe

Introduction

This Flavorful Mediterranean Chicken Tenders recipe is a quick and easy dinner perfect for busy weeknights. Marinated with bright lemon, garlic, and aromatic herbs, these chicken tenders cook up tender and juicy in just 25 minutes.

Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken tenders, trimmed and ready to cook
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin preferred)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• Optional garnish: fresh parsley, chopped, and lemon wedges

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well combined to create the marinade.
2. Step 2: Add the chicken tenders to the bowl, tossing to coat them evenly. Cover with plastic wrap and let marinate for at least 15 minutes or up to 2 hours in the fridge for deeper flavor.
3. Step 3: Preheat your skillet over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of olive oil to coat the pan.
4. Step 4: Once the skillet is hot, add the marinated chicken tenders in a single layer. Cook for 4-5 minutes on one side, until golden brown.
5. Step 5: Flip the chicken tenders and cook for another 4-5 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
6. Step 6: Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for 2 minutes before serving to lock in the juices.
7. Step 7: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges for extra brightness.

Tips & Variations

• For a smoky flavor, try replacing paprika with smoked paprika.
• Use Greek yogurt as a marinade base for extra tenderness and a creamy texture.
• Serve with a side of couscous or a fresh salad to complete the Mediterranean theme.
• Marinate the chicken overnight for an even more intense flavor.

Storage

Store leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Avoid overcooking to keep the chicken juicy.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of chicken tenders?

Yes, you can use chicken breast cut into strips. Just adjust the cooking time, as thicker pieces may take slightly longer to cook through.

What if I don’t have fresh lemon juice?

You can substitute with bottled lemon juice in a pinch, but fresh lemon juice is recommended for the brightest flavor.

Flavorful Mediterranean Chicken Tenders Recipe – Easy 30-Min Dinner Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 132 reviews

Delight in these Flavorful Mediterranean Chicken Tenders, marinated with garlic, lemon, and classic herbs, then perfectly cooked in a skillet for a quick and easy 30-minute dinner that bursts with vibrant, fresh flavors.

• Author: Kai
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Mediterranean
• Diet: Halal

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken

• 1 lb chicken tenders, trimmed and ready to cook

Marinade

• 2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin preferred)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Garnish (Optional)

• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Lemon wedges

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, dried oregano, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Whisk thoroughly until all ingredients are well blended to create a flavorful marinade.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Add the trimmed chicken tenders to the bowl and toss them in the marinade until they’re evenly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the chicken marinate for at least 15 minutes at room temperature, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator to deepen the flavor.
3. Heat the Skillet: Preheat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a light drizzle of olive oil to coat the pan, ensuring the chicken won’t stick and will brown nicely.
4. Cook the Chicken – First Side: Place the marinated chicken tenders in a single layer in the hot skillet. Cook without moving for 4 to 5 minutes until the underside is golden brown and caramelized.
5. Cook the Chicken – Second Side: Flip the tenders carefully and continue cooking for another 4 to 5 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C), indicating they are fully cooked and juicy inside.
6. Rest the Chicken: Remove the cooked chicken tenders from the skillet and let them rest on a plate for 2 minutes. Resting helps the juices redistribute, keeping the chicken tender and moist.
7. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top and serve with lemon wedges on the side for an added burst of brightness and a classic Mediterranean touch.

Notes

• Marinating the chicken longer (up to 2 hours) intensifies the flavor, but 15 minutes is sufficient for a quick meal.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
• Extra virgin olive oil is recommended for a richer and more authentic Mediterranean flavor.
• Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a light salad for a complete Mediterranean-inspired meal.
• If you prefer, grill the chicken tenders instead of skillet-cooking for a smoky taste.

Keywords: Mediterranean chicken tenders, garlic lemon chicken, easy chicken recipe, skillet chicken, quick dinner, healthy chicken tenders