Crispy Greek Chicken Tenders

These Crispy Greek Chicken Tenders offer a fresh, flavorful twist on the classic fried chicken. The tender chicken is marinated in a zesty Greek-inspired mixture of yogurt, lemon, and olive oil, which keeps it juicy and flavorful. Coated with a crispy, golden-brown crust, these chicken tenders are perfect for dipping and can be served with a variety of sides. Whether you’re feeding a family or hosting friends, this dish is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe brings together the best of Mediterranean flavors in an easy-to-make dish. The tangy Greek yogurt marinade not only adds depth of flavor but also helps keep the chicken tender and moist. The combination of lemon, red wine vinegar, and garlic gives the chicken a perfect balance of zesty and savory flavors. Plus, these tenders are crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, making them an irresistible choice for any meal. Whether you serve them as an appetizer, snack, or main course, they’re a hit every time!

Ingredients

For the Chicken Tenders:

• 1 1/2 lbs chicken tenders

• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt

• 2 tablespoons lemon juice

• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. In a medium bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, olive oil, and minced garlic. Mix well until everything is evenly incorporated.

2. Add the chicken tenders to the marinade and toss them to coat evenly. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, allowing the flavors to meld and the chicken to marinate.

3. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.

5. Arrange the marinated chicken tenders on the baking sheet in a single layer, ensuring they do not overlap.

6. Bake the chicken tenders for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden and crispy, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

7. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce and enjoy!

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep time: 10 minutes (plus marinating time)

• Cook time: 20-25 minutes

• Total time: 1 hour 30 minutes (including marinating)

Variations

• Baked or Fried: If you prefer, you can fry the chicken tenders in oil for a crispier result. Simply heat vegetable oil in a pan and fry the tenders until golden and crispy on both sides.

• Spicy Option: Add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the marinade for a spicy kick.

• Herb Variations: Try adding fresh herbs such as oregano, thyme, or rosemary to the marinade for an extra burst of flavor.

• Gluten-Free: To make these tenders gluten-free, substitute the breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-12 minutes or until heated through and crispy. For the crispiest result, reheat them on a baking rack rather than directly on the baking sheet.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts cut into strips instead of chicken tenders. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly as larger pieces may require a longer cooking time.

2. How long should I marinate the chicken?

For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour. If you’re short on time, even 30 minutes will help, but longer marination gives the chicken a richer taste.

3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare and marinate the chicken tenders a day ahead and keep them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.

4. Can I use non-fat Greek yogurt?

Yes, you can use non-fat Greek yogurt if you’d like a lighter version of the dish. The flavor will still be delicious, though the texture may be slightly different.

5. Can I freeze these chicken tenders?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken tenders. Allow them to cool, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months.

6. What dipping sauce goes well with these chicken tenders?

Tzatziki sauce, ranch dressing, or even a spicy buffalo sauce would pair wonderfully with these crispy chicken tenders.

7. How can I make these tenders extra crispy?

For an extra crispy coating, you can dredge the marinated chicken tenders in breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes before baking or frying.

8. Can I cook these tenders on the stovetop?

Yes, you can cook the tenders in a skillet over medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes per side, or until they are crispy and cooked through.

9. What side dishes go well with crispy Greek chicken tenders?

These chicken tenders pair well with Greek salad, roasted vegetables, or even a light couscous or quinoa dish.

10. Can I use other types of vinegar?

While red wine vinegar is preferred for its mild tang, you can use apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar as alternatives in this recipe.

Conclusion

Crispy Greek Chicken Tenders are the perfect combination of juicy, tender chicken and a crispy, golden crust. With a simple marinade of Greek yogurt, lemon, and garlic, these tenders are full of flavor and easy to make. Whether served as a main dish or a snack, they’re sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy this Mediterranean-inspired treat today!