Flavorful Mediterranean Chicken Tenders Recipe – Easy 30-Min Dinner Recipe
This Flavorful Mediterranean Chicken Tenders recipe offers a quick and delicious dinner option, featuring tender chicken marinated in a zesty blend of olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and classic Mediterranean spices. Cooked in a skillet to achieve a perfectly golden and juicy finish, it’s a simple yet vibrant meal ideal for busy weeknights or anytime you crave a fresh, wholesome dish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Marinade
- 1 lb chicken tenders, trimmed and ready to cook
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- Lemon wedges (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the marinade: In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, dried oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Whisk these ingredients thoroughly until well blended to create a flavorful marinade.
- Marinate the chicken: Add the trimmed chicken tenders to the bowl with the marinade. Toss them well to ensure each piece is evenly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate for at least 15 minutes, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours to deepen the flavor.
- Heat the skillet: Preheat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add a small drizzle of olive oil, swirling to coat the surface to prevent sticking and to aid in browning.
- Cook the chicken – first side: Place the marinated chicken tenders in a single layer in the hot skillet. Cook them undisturbed for 4 to 5 minutes until the underside is golden brown and seared.
- Cook the chicken – second side: Flip the chicken tenders carefully and continue cooking for another 4 to 5 minutes or until their internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C), indicating they are fully cooked and safe to eat.
- Rest the chicken: Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and let it rest on a plate or cutting board for about 2 minutes. Resting helps lock in the juices, keeping the chicken moist.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle the chicken tenders with freshly chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges for an extra burst of brightness and flavor.
Notes
- Marinating for longer than 15 minutes (up to 2 hours) will intensify the flavors of the chicken.
- If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of garlic and paprika.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- For a smoky flavor, consider using smoked paprika instead of regular paprika.
- Serve with your choice of sides like rice, salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Keywords: Mediterranean chicken tenders, easy chicken recipe, quick dinner, skillet chicken, garlicky chicken, lemon chicken, healthy chicken dinner
