Crispy Greek Chicken Tenders (Full Mediterranean Recipe)
Servings: 3–4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15–20 minutes
Total Time: 30–35 minutes
🧾 Ingredients
For the Chicken Tenders
-
500g chicken tenders (or sliced chicken breasts)
-
1 cup panko breadcrumbs (or whole-wheat breadcrumbs)
-
1/2 cup grated parmesan
-
1 tsp dried oregano
-
1 tsp dried thyme
-
1/2 tsp paprika
-
1/2 tsp garlic powder
-
1/2 tsp salt
-
1/4 tsp black pepper
For the Greek Marinade
-
3 tbsp olive oil
-
Juice of 1 lemon
-
2 cloves garlic, minced
-
1 tsp oregano
-
1/2 tsp cumin
-
1/2 tsp salt
-
1/4 tsp black pepper
For Serving (Optional)
-
Tzatziki
-
Lemon wedges
-
Fresh parsley
-
Greek salad on the side
🍽️ Instructions
1. Marinate the Chicken
-
In a bowl, whisk together:
-
Olive oil
-
Lemon juice
-
Garlic
-
Oregano
-
Cumin
-
Salt & pepper
-
-
Add chicken tenders. Toss well.
-
Cover and marinate 15–30 minutes (or up to 4 hours).
2. Prepare the Crispy Coating
In a shallow bowl, combine:
-
Panko
-
Parmesan
-
Oregano
-
Thyme
-
Paprika
-
Garlic powder
-
Salt & pepper
Mix well.
3. Bread the Chicken
-
Remove each tender from the marinade (let excess drip off).
-
Press into the breadcrumb mixture until well coated.
-
Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
4. Cook
▶ Oven Method (Crispy & Golden)
-
Preheat to 220°C / 425°F.
-
Spray tenders lightly with olive oil.
-
Bake 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway.
-
Broil 1–2 minutes at the end for extra crispiness.
▶ Air Fryer Method (Extra Crispy!)
-
Preheat to 200°C / 400°F.
-
Air fry 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway.
-
Do not overcrowd.
5. Serve
Plate your Greek Chicken Tenders with:
-
Tzatziki for dipping
-
Lemon wedges
-
Cucumber-tomato salad
-
Warm pita or brown rice
🌿 Tips & Variations
Make it spicier
Add chili flakes or cayenne to the breadcrumb mix.
Low-carb version
Swap panko for almond flour + a little parmesan.
Mediterranean flavor boost
Add chopped fresh parsley or dill right into the breadcrumb mixture.
Kids-friendly version
Skip paprika and keep spices mild.
