PERFECT MEDITERRANEAN CHICKEN TENDERS
These Mediterranean Chicken Tenders offer a taste of the Mediterranean with juicy, perfectly seasoned chicken, bursting with lemon, herbs, and garlic flavors. Ready in under 30 minutes, this healthy and delicious meal is incredibly easy to make and will quickly become a family favorite.
Equipment
- Medium bowl
- Resealable bag or shallow dish
- Baking Sheet
- Parchment paper (optional)
- Large skillet
- Meat thermometer
- Serving platter
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs chicken tenders
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice, freshly squeezed
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
- Lemon wedges for garnish
- 1 tablespoon olive oil for pan-frying option
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, basil, thyme, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Place the chicken tenders in a resealable bag or a shallow dish.
- Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each tender is well coated.
- Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Arrange the marinated chicken tenders in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- OR Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Remove the chicken tenders from the marinade, letting any excess drip off.
- Place the chicken tenders in the hot skillet, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Work in batches if necessary.
- Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown.
- Transfer the Mediterranean Chicken Tenders to a serving platter.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges, if desired.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
Marinating the chicken is crucial for flavor and moisture. Don't overcrowd the pan or oven to ensure proper browning. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Consider adding feta cheese or spicing it up with cayenne pepper for variations.