Greek-Style Grilled Chicken Tenders

Greek-Style Grilled Chicken Tenders

Close your eyes and imagine the Mediterranean breeze, the scent of sizzling herbs in the air, and a plate of juicy, perfectly grilled chicken tenders waiting to be devoured. That’s exactly the vibe you get with these Greek-Style Grilled Chicken Tenders. They’re zesty, fresh, and bursting with the sunny flavors of lemon, garlic, and oregano.

This recipe is all about simplicity meeting bold flavor. With just a quick marinade and a few minutes on the grill, you’ve got a dish that tastes like a mini vacation. Serve it up with a side of tzatziki, wrap it in a warm pita, or toss it over a salad the possibilities are endless. Trust me, this one’s going to be a go-to in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love Greek-Style Grilled Chicken Tenders

Versatile: Serve it as a main, in wraps, or on a salad—it’s a dish that adapts to whatever mood you’re in.
Budget-Friendly: Uses simple pantry ingredients and chicken tenders—no need for expensive or exotic items.
Quick and Easy: The marinade does all the work while you relax, and the cooking takes just minutes.
Customizable: Adjust the herbs and citrus to your taste, or add a dash of spice for a kick.
Crowd-Pleasing: Juicy, flavorful, and easy to eat everyone from picky kids to gourmet-loving adults will dig in happily.

Ingredients in Greek-Style Grilled Chicken Tenders

This recipe brings the bold, fresh flavors of Greece right to your plate with just a handful of easy ingredients:

Chicken Tenders: Tender, juicy, and perfect for quick grilling. They soak up the marinade beautifully.
Olive Oil: Acts as the base of the marinade, locking in moisture and adding a rich, smooth flavor.
Lemon Juice: Adds that bright, zesty tang that gives the chicken its signature Greek flavor.
Garlic: Bold, aromatic, and oh-so essential. Garlic infuses the chicken with incredible depth.
Dried Oregano: Earthy and fragrant this herb is the heart of Greek cuisine.
Salt and Pepper: Simple seasoning that enhances every other flavor in the marinade.
Optional Add-ins: A pinch of paprika, a splash of red wine vinegar, or some chopped fresh parsley can give it an extra layer of flavor.

(Note: the full ingredient list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s dive into the simple, flavorful steps to make this Mediterranean delight:

Preheat Your Grill:
Start by preheating your grill (or grill pan) to medium-high heat. Clean and lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.

Prepare the Marinade:
In a large bowl or zip-top bag, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. It should smell amazing already!

Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken tenders to the marinade, making sure each piece is well-coated. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours) in the fridge. The longer, the better for flavor.

Grill the Chicken:
Place the marinated tenders on the preheated grill. Cook for about 3–4 minutes per side, or until the chicken is nicely charred on the outside and cooked through on the inside.

Rest and Serve:
Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after grilling. This keeps all the juices inside and ensures every bite is tender.

Serve and Enjoy:
Serve warm with lemon wedges, fresh herbs, and your favorite Greek sides. You’re going to want seconds (and thirds).

Nutrition Facts:
Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 260
(Note: these are approximate values and may vary based on exact ingredients used)

Preparation Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 8 minutes
Total Time: 18 minutes (+marinating time)

How to Serve Greek-Style Grilled Chicken Tenders

This dish is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Here are some ideas:

Wrap them in warm pita with lettuce, tomato, and tzatziki for an easy gyro-style sandwich.
Serve over a Greek salad with olives, feta, and cucumbers.
Pair with lemon rice or roasted potatoes for a more filling meal.
Top a grain bowl with the chicken, hummus, and fresh veggies for a healthy twist.

Additional Tips

Here are some helpful hints to get the most out of this recipe:

Use fresh lemon juice for the brightest, most authentic flavor.
If you don’t have a grill, use a cast iron skillet or broil them in the oven.
Let the chicken come to room temperature before grilling for even cooking.
Add a little crumbled feta on top just before serving for a salty, creamy touch.
Double the batch and use leftovers for meal prep they’re perfect cold or reheated.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?
Yes, just slice them into strips or pound them thin for even cooking.

2. How long should I marinate the chicken?
At least 30 minutes, but up to 4 hours is ideal for maximum flavor.

3. Can I cook these in a pan instead of a grill?
Absolutely. Use a grill pan or cast iron skillet over medium-high heat.

4. What can I serve with these tenders?
Tzatziki, pita bread, Greek salad, roasted veggies, lemon potatoes the list goes on!

5. Can I freeze the marinated chicken?
Yes! Just freeze it in the marinade and thaw in the fridge before grilling.

6. Can I add more spices to the marinade?
Definitely. Try paprika, cumin, or red pepper flakes for a little heat.

7. How do I know when the chicken is done?
It should reach an internal temp of 165°F (74°C) and be firm to the touch.

8. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Grill ahead and store in the fridge perfect for meal prep or quick meals.

9. How do I keep the chicken juicy?
Don’t overcook and let it rest after grilling. Marinating also helps lock in moisture.

10. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, just make sure any sides or sauces you serve it with are also gluten-free.

Conclusion

Greek-Style Grilled Chicken Tenders are everything you want in a meal simple, satisfying, and bursting with bright, bold flavor. Whether you’re serving them at a summer cookout, packing them for lunch, or just making dinner a little more exciting, they deliver every time. It’s a breeze to make and a joy to eat. Go ahead, fire up that grill this one’s calling your name!

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Greek-Style Grilled Chicken Tenders

Greek-Style Grilled Chicken Tenders

  • Author: Madison
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus marinating time)
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 20 minutes + marinating
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: Greek

Description

Tender, juicy chicken tenders marinated in Greek herbs, lemon, garlic, and olive oil, then grilled to perfection — a flavorful and healthy Mediterranean dish.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 1/2 lbs chicken tenders
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp dried thyme
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • Lemon wedges (for serving)

Instructions

  1. In a bowl or zip-top bag, combine olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, garlic, oregano, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper to make the marinade.
  2. Add chicken tenders to the marinade, coat well, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours.
  3. Preheat grill or grill pan over medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates.
  4. Grill the chicken tenders for 3–4 minutes per side, or until cooked through and nicely charred.
  5. Remove from grill and let rest for a few minutes. Garnish with parsley and serve with lemon wedges.

Notes

  • Serve with tzatziki sauce, pita bread, or a fresh Greek salad for a complete meal.
  • Can also be baked or cooked in a skillet if a grill is not available.
  • Use chicken thighs for a juicier alternative.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 5 oz)
  • Calories: 260
  • Sugar: 0g
  • Sodium: 320mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 1g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: greek chicken, grilled chicken tenders, mediterranean, healthy grilled chicken, lemon garlic chicken

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