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Introduction
Crispy Greek Chicken Tenders are a flavorful twist on a classic favorite, bringing together Mediterranean herbs, creamy yogurt, and a perfectly crunchy coating.
These tenders are juicy on the inside, golden on the outside, and packed with bright, zesty notes that make them irresistible for both kids and adults.
They’re ideal for weeknight dinners, meal prepping, or as a party appetizer that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients
For the Chicken & Marinade
500g (1.1 lb) chicken tenders or boneless chicken breasts cut into strips
1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
1 tbsp olive oil
Juice of 1/2 lemon
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp dried thyme
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
For the Crispy Coating
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese (optional but recommended)
1 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
Salt & pepper to taste
Olive oil spray or drizzle
Instructions
Begin by marinating the chicken. In a bowl, mix Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Add the chicken strips, ensuring each piece is coated, then cover and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours for maximum flavor.
Next, prepare the coating. In a shallow dish, combine panko breadcrumbs, parmesan, oregano, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Remove the chicken from the marinade, shake off any excess, then press each strip into the breadcrumb mixture until fully coated.
Arrange the coated tenders on a lined baking sheet and lightly spray or drizzle them with olive oil.
Bake in a preheated oven at 200°C (400°F) for about 18–22 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and crispy.
For extra crunch, you can also cook them in an air fryer at the same temperature for 12–15 minutes.
How to Make
The secret to these Greek-inspired tenders lies in the marinade, where yogurt tenderizes the chicken and infuses it with lemony, herby goodness.
The coating creates a satisfying crunch, while the parmesan adds a savory depth. Baking or air frying keeps them light yet crispy.
making them a healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken. Serve with tzatziki, fresh lemon wedges, or a side salad for a complete Mediterranean meal.
Variations
You can swap chicken tenders for boneless thighs if you prefer juicier meat. For a gluten-free version, use crushed gluten-free crackers or almond flour instead of breadcrumbs.
To add a little heat, sprinkle in chili flakes or cayenne pepper into the breadcrumb mix. If you’re short on time, skip the marinating step and coat directly, though the flavor won’t be as intense.
Tips
For the crispiest results, avoid overcrowding the baking tray or air fryer basket, as this ensures even browning. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking to help the coating stay intact. If making ahead, you can bread the chicken and freeze the strips in a single layer, then bake straight from frozen with a few extra minutes of cooking time.
Conclusion
Crispy Greek Chicken Tenders combine the comfort of a crunchy chicken strip with the bright, fresh flavors of Mediterranean cooking. They’re versatile, easy to prepare, and sure to become a favorite for quick dinners, gatherings, or healthy snacking.
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