🌿 Crispy Greek Chicken Tenders (Mediterranean Style)
⭐ Description
These golden chicken tenders are marinated in lemon, garlic, olive oil, and oregano, then coated in a crunchy herbed crust. They’re oven-baked or air-fried for a lighter Mediterranean take on a family favorite.
🛒 Ingredients (Serves 4)
Chicken Marinade
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1½ lb (680 g) chicken tenders
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3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
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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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Salt & freshly ground black pepper
Crispy Coating
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1 cup panko breadcrumbs (whole-wheat optional)
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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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½ tsp paprika
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2 tbsp olive oil
Optional Dipping Sauce
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Tzatziki sauce
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Lemon-garlic yogurt sauce
👩🍳 Instructions
1️⃣ Marinate the Chicken
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In a bowl, whisk olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
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Add chicken tenders and toss to coat.
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Marinate 20–30 minutes (or up to 8 hours in the fridge).
2️⃣ Prepare the Coating
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In a shallow bowl, mix panko, Parmesan, oregano, garlic powder, paprika, and olive oil.
3️⃣ Coat the Chicken
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Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess drip off.
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Press each tender into breadcrumb mixture until well coated.
4️⃣ Bake or Air-Fry
Oven Method
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Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
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Place tenders on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
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Bake 18–22 minutes, flipping halfway, until crispy and cooked through.
Air-Fryer Method
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Air-fry at 400°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping once.
5️⃣ Serve
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Sprinkle with fresh parsley.
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Serve hot with tzatziki or lemon wedges.
🍽 Serving Suggestions
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Pair with Greek salad
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Serve with roasted potatoes or pita
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Add to wraps or grain bowls
🌟 Variations
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Gluten-free: Use gluten-free panko
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Spicy Greek: Add chili flakes or harissa to coating
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Dairy-free: Omit Parmesan and add sesame seeds
