Greek cuisine is known for its fresh, vibrant flavors, and this Greek-Style Grilled Chicken Tenders recipe is a perfect example. Infused with Mediterranean herbs, tangy lemon, and rich olive oil, these chicken tenders are juicy, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, prepping for a week of healthy meals, or hosting a summer barbecue, this dish delivers a wholesome and satisfying experience.
What makes this recipe stand out is its simplicity paired with bold taste. A classic Greek marinade transforms humble chicken tenders into something extraordinary — tender, juicy bites packed with garlic, oregano, thyme, and paprika. Cooked to perfection on a grill or stovetop, and garnished with fresh parsley, this dish is both visually appealing and delicious.
Greek-Style Grilled Chicken Tenders can be served on their own, alongside traditional sides like tzatziki, pita bread, or a Greek salad. It’s high in protein, low in carbs, and ideal for those following keto, paleo, or gluten-free diets. Let’s dive into this nutritious and flavor-packed recipe!
Ingredients:
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1 lb chicken tenders
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2 tbsp olive oil
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Juice of 1 lemon (approximately 2 tablespoons)
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tsp dried oregano
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1 tsp dried thyme
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1 tsp paprika
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½ tsp salt
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¼ tsp black pepper
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2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Whisk everything together until you get a uniform, aromatic marinade. The olive oil and lemon juice will act as both a tenderizer and flavor enhancer, while the herbs and spices infuse the chicken with classic Mediterranean flavors.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Place the chicken tenders into the bowl with the marinade. Toss them until each piece is evenly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or place the chicken and marinade in a sealed plastic bag. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for a deeper infusion of flavor. Marinating not only boosts taste but also helps keep the chicken tender and juicy during grilling.
Step 3: Preheat & Prep the Grill or Skillet
Before cooking, preheat your grill or skillet to medium-high heat. If using a skillet, add a light drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking and burning. Make sure the grill grates or skillet surface is clean and well-oiled for the best cooking results.
Step 4: Grill the Chicken
Remove the chicken tenders from the marinade and let any excess drip off. Place them on the hot grill or skillet. Cook for 5–7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). The chicken should be golden brown on the outside and fully cooked inside. Avoid overcrowding the grill or pan; cook in batches if necessary.
Step 5: Garnish & Serve
Once the chicken tenders are cooked, let them rest for 3–5 minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring each bite is moist and flavorful. Finish by sprinkling fresh chopped parsley over the top for a burst of color and freshness. Serve warm.
Optional: Accompany with tzatziki sauce, hummus, Greek salad, or warm pita bread for a full Mediterranean meal.
Variations
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Spicy Greek Chicken Tenders: Add a pinch of red chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the marinade for some heat.
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Yogurt-Marinated Version: Replace half the olive oil with Greek yogurt to create a creamier, tangier marinade.
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Herb Swap: Try using fresh herbs like rosemary, dill, or basil in place of dried ones for a more vibrant flavor.
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Lemon Zest: Add grated lemon zest to the marinade for extra citrus punch.
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Vegetable Skewers: Alternate chicken pieces with bell peppers, onions, or cherry tomatoes on skewers for a grilled kebab version.
Cooking Note:
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For best results, ensure the chicken tenders are of uniform thickness so they cook evenly.
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Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking; internal temp should be 165°F.
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Don’t skip the resting time after grilling — it’s key for juicy meat.
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Chicken can be grilled, pan-seared, or baked if desired.
Serving Suggestions:
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Main Dish: Serve with a side of rice pilaf, couscous, or roasted potatoes.
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Low-Carb Option: Pair with zucchini noodles, cauliflower rice, or a Greek cucumber salad.
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Wrap It Up: Tuck the grilled tenders into warm pita with lettuce, tomato, and tzatziki for a delicious wrap.
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Meal Prep: Make a large batch and store in the fridge for salads, wraps, or grain bowls throughout the week.
Tips:
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Marinate longer for deeper flavor (up to 24 hours if needed).
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Use fresh lemon juice over bottled for a brighter, more authentic taste.
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For grilling, ensure the grates are hot and clean to achieve perfect grill marks and prevent sticking.
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Add a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil just before serving for richness.
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Want even more flavor? Sprinkle feta cheese crumbles over the top before serving.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
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Calories: ~210 kcal
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Protein: ~25g
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Sodium: ~350mg
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Fat: ~10g (primarily from olive oil)
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Carbohydrates: ~2–3g
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Fiber: <1g
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Sugar: <1g
Note: Values may vary depending on portion size and additional sides or sauces.
FAQs
Q: Can I use chicken breasts or thighs instead of tenders?
Yes, you can substitute with sliced chicken breasts or boneless thighs. Just adjust cooking time based on thickness.
Q: Can this be baked instead of grilled?
Absolutely. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20–25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Q: How long can I store leftovers?
Cooked chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3–4 days, or frozen for up to 2 months.
Q: What’s the best way to reheat grilled chicken tenders?
Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat or in the microwave with a splash of water to retain moisture.
Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you ensure all ingredients (especially spices) are certified gluten-free, this recipe is suitable for a gluten-free diet.
Conclusion
Greek-Style Grilled Chicken Tenders are everything you want in a meal — flavorful, healthy, quick, and versatile. With a simple yet aromatic marinade, this dish brings the sunny, herb-filled flavors of the Mediterranean to your plate. It’s perfect for casual weeknight dinners, summer cookouts, or nutritious meal prep.
What makes this recipe especially valuable is its adaptability. You can grill it, bake it, or even air-fry it. Pair it with your favorite sides or serve it in wraps, salads, or bowls. Whether you’re feeding kids, guests, or yourself, these Greek-style tenders are sure to become a repeat favorite.
Greek-Style Grilled Chicken Tenders
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 3-4
Ingredients
Ingredients:
-
1 lb chicken tenders
-
2 tbsp olive oil
-
Juice of 1 lemon (approximately 2 tablespoons)
-
2 cloves garlic, minced
-
1 tsp dried oregano
-
1 tsp dried thyme
-
1 tsp paprika
-
½ tsp salt
-
¼ tsp black pepper
-
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Whisk everything together until you get a uniform, aromatic marinade. The olive oil and lemon juice will act as both a tenderizer and flavor enhancer, while the herbs and spices infuse the chicken with classic Mediterranean flavors.
Place the chicken tenders into the bowl with the marinade. Toss them until each piece is evenly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or place the chicken and marinade in a sealed plastic bag. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for a deeper infusion of flavor. Marinating not only boosts taste but also helps keep the chicken tender and juicy during grilling.
Before cooking, preheat your grill or skillet to medium-high heat. If using a skillet, add a light drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking and burning. Make sure the grill grates or skillet surface is clean and well-oiled for the best cooking results.
Remove the chicken tenders from the marinade and let any excess drip off. Place them on the hot grill or skillet. Cook for 5–7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). The chicken should be golden brown on the outside and fully cooked inside. Avoid overcrowding the grill or pan; cook in batches if necessary.
Once the chicken tenders are cooked, let them rest for 3–5 minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring each bite is moist and flavorful. Finish by sprinkling fresh chopped parsley over the top for a burst of color and freshness. Serve warm.
Optional: Accompany with tzatziki sauce, hummus, Greek salad, or warm pita bread for a full Mediterranean meal.
Notes
Cooking Note:
-
For best results, ensure the chicken tenders are of uniform thickness so they cook evenly.
-
Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking; internal temp should be 165°F.
-
Don’t skip the resting time after grilling — it’s key for juicy meat.
-
Chicken can be grilled, pan-seared, or baked if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: ~210 kcal
- Sugar: <1g
- Sodium: ~350mg
- Protein: ~25g