🇬🇷🍗 Crispy Greek Chicken Tenders (Mediterranean Style)
📝 Description
These Crispy Greek Chicken Tenders are marinated in lemon, garlic, olive oil, and oregano, then coated in a light, crunchy crust for maximum flavor without heaviness. Inspired by traditional Greek cuisine, they’re perfect as a main dish, appetizer, or protein for salads and wraps—crispy on the outside, tender and juicy inside.
🛒 Ingredients (Serves 4)
Chicken & Marinade
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500 g (1 lb) chicken tenders (or sliced chicken breast)
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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 sea salt
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½ tsp black pepper
Crispy Coating
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½ cup whole-wheat breadcrumbs (or panko)
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¼ cup grated Parmesan or Kefalotyri cheese
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1 tsp dried oregano
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½ tsp garlic powder
For Cooking
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Olive oil spray or 2 tbsp olive oil
👩🍳 Instructions
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Marinate chicken: In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice & zest, garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add chicken and marinate 20–30 minutes.
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Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
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Prepare coating: Mix breadcrumbs, cheese, oregano, and garlic powder.
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Coat chicken: Press each tender into the breadcrumb mixture.
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Arrange on tray and lightly drizzle or spray with olive oil.
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Bake for 18–22 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and cooked through.
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Optional: Broil 2–3 minutes for extra crispiness.
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Rest 5 minutes before serving.
🍽 Serving Suggestions
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With tzatziki sauce
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In Mediterranean wraps or pita
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Over Greek salad
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With lemon-roasted potatoes
🔥 Alternative Cooking Methods
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Air Fryer: 190°C (375°F) for 10–12 minutes, flip once
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Pan-Seared: Shallow fry in olive oil until crispy
🧠 Nutrition Highlights
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High-protein, lean chicken
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Healthy fats from olive oil
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Lower carbs than traditional fried tenders
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Mediterranean diet–friendly
❓ Q & A
Q: Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes. Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed almonds.
Q: Can I skip the cheese?
Absolutely. The tenders will still be flavorful and crispy.
Q: Are these kid-friendly?
Yes! Mild, crunchy, and juicy—great for kids.
Q: How do I keep them crispy?
Let them rest on a wire rack and avoid stacking while hot.
Q: Can I prep ahead?
Yes. Marinate up to 12 hours ahead; coat just before cooking.
Q: How long do leftovers last?
Store in the fridge for 3 days. Reheat in oven or air fryer for best texture.
