🇬🇷 Crispy Greek Chicken Tenders (Mediterranean Style)
✨ Description
These Crispy Greek Chicken Tenders are marinated in lemon, garlic, olive oil, and classic Greek herbs, then coated in a crunchy Parmesan-herb crust and baked or pan-fried until golden. They’re juicy on the inside, irresistibly crispy on the outside, and much lighter than traditional fried tenders. Perfect for family dinners, wraps, salads, or dipping into cool tzatziki.
🛒 Ingredients
For the Greek Marinade
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1½ lb chicken tenders (or sliced chicken breast)
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⅓ cup Greek yogurt
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3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
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Zest + juice of 1 lemon
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1½ tsp dried oregano
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½ tsp paprika
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½ tsp salt
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½ tsp black pepper
For the Crispy Coating
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¾ cup whole-wheat breadcrumbs or panko
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½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1 tsp dried oregano
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½ tsp garlic powder
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2 tbsp olive oil (for coating crispness)
🔥 Instructions
1️⃣ Marinate the Chicken
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In a bowl, mix Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon zest and juice, garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
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Add chicken tenders and coat well.
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Cover and marinate at least 30 minutes (up to 12 hours for deeper flavor).
2️⃣ Prepare the Coating
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In a shallow bowl, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan, oregano, garlic powder, and olive oil.
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Mix until crumbs are lightly moistened.
3️⃣ Coat the Tenders
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Remove chicken from marinade (shake off excess).
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Press each piece firmly into breadcrumb mixture.
4️⃣ Cook the Chicken
🔥 Oven Method (Healthier)
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Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C)
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Place tenders on a lined baking sheet
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Bake 18–22 minutes, flipping once, until golden and cooked through
🍳 Pan-Fry Method (Extra Crispy)
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Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat
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Cook 4–5 minutes per side until crispy and golden
5️⃣ Serve
Rest 5 minutes, then serve hot with lemon wedges and herbs.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
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With tzatziki or garlic yogurt sauce
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Stuffed into warm pita with tomatoes and cucumbers
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On top of a Greek salad
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Alongside roasted potatoes or grilled veggies
🧠 Q & A
Q: What makes these “Greek”?
A: Lemon, olive oil, oregano, garlic, yogurt marinade, and Parmesan bring classic Greek flavors with a Mediterranean balance.
Q: Can I air-fry these?
A: Yes!
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Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway.
Q: Can I make them gluten-free?
A: Absolutely. Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed almonds.
Q: How do I keep them juicy?
A: The Greek yogurt marinade locks in moisture and prevents drying.
Q: Can I make them ahead?
A:
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Marinate up to 24 hours ahead
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Cooked tenders keep well refrigerated for 3 days
Q: Are these kid-friendly?
A: Very! Mild, crispy, and perfect for dipping — no strong spice.
