Here’s a detailed recipe for your Crispy Greek Chicken Tenders — packed with Mediterranean flavor, perfectly golden, and irresistibly juicy! 🍋🍗
🍗 Crispy Greek Chicken Tenders – Mediterranean Flavor Explosion 🌿✨
Introduction
These Crispy Greek Chicken Tenders are a delicious twist on classic chicken strips, infused with bright Mediterranean herbs, zesty lemon, and a subtle garlicky flavor. Coated in a crunchy, golden crust and cooked to perfection, they’re tender inside and crisp outside — ideal for a wholesome family dinner, meal prep, or protein-packed snack. Pair them with creamy tzatziki or a fresh Greek salad for a complete meal bursting with flavor.
Ingredients (Serves 3–4)
For the Marinade:
- 1 lb (450 g) chicken tenders or boneless chicken breasts cut into strips
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Coating:
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (panko or crushed whole-grain crackers)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon dried parsley
For Cooking:
- Olive oil spray or 1–2 tablespoons oil (for frying or air frying)
Optional Dip:
- Tzatziki sauce or garlic yogurt sauce
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken:
In a large bowl, combine olive oil, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, zest, garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Add chicken tenders and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 2 hours for maximum flavor. - Prepare the Coating:
In a shallow dish, mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan, paprika, garlic powder, and parsley. Remove chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off, and coat each tender in the breadcrumb mixture. Press lightly for a firm coating. - Cook the Tenders:
Air Fryer Method: Preheat to 400°F (200°C). Spray basket with oil and arrange tenders in a single layer. Air fry for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden and crisp.
Pan-Fry Method: Heat 1–2 tablespoons olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook tenders 3–4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. - Serve:
Let rest for 2 minutes. Serve warm with tzatziki, lemon wedges, or a light Greek salad.
Chef’s Tips
- For a gluten-free version, use almond flour or crushed pork rinds instead of breadcrumbs.
- For extra crispiness, double-dip tenders in egg wash before coating.
- Add a sprinkle of feta and drizzle of lemon juice before serving for authentic Greek flair.
