Quick Mediterranean Chicken Tenders

why make this recipe

This recipe is quick, full of flavor, and uses simple ingredients. You can make it fast for a weeknight meal. It keeps well and goes with many sides.

introduction

Quick Mediterranean Chicken Tenders are juicy and bright with lemon and garlic, and they cook fast on the stove; for another easy chicken idea, see the Chicken Parmesan with Alfredo Sauce recipe.

how to make Quick Mediterranean Chicken Tenders

1. Mix the garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper in a bowl to make the marinade.
2. Add the chicken tenders to the bowl and coat them well. Let them sit for at least 30 minutes so they soak up the flavor.
3. Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a little oil if the pan is dry.
4. Cook the tenders for about 5–7 minutes on each side. Cook until they are golden and no longer pink inside.
5. Let them rest a minute before serving so the juices stay inside.

Ingredients :

• 1 pound chicken tenders
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions :

1. In a bowl, combine garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Add chicken tenders to the marinade and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Preheat a skillet over medium heat and cook the tenders for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are cooked through and golden brown.
4. Serve with your choice of sides or over a salad.

how to serve Quick Mediterranean Chicken Tenders

Serve them with a green salad, rice, or warm pita and tzatziki. They also work well over mixed greens with olives, cucumber, and tomato. Add a lemon wedge for extra brightness.

how to store Quick Mediterranean Chicken Tenders

Cool the chicken fully before storing. Put leftovers in an airtight container and keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or oven so they stay juicy. Do not leave cooked chicken at room temperature for more than 2 hours.

tips to make Quick Mediterranean Chicken Tenders

• Marinate at least 30 minutes for better flavor.
• Pound thicker tenders lightly so they cook evenly.
• Use a meat thermometer; chicken is done at 165°F (74°C).
• Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if needed so they brown well.
• For more color, finish under the broiler 1–2 minutes after pan-searing.

variation (if any)

• Add chopped fresh parsley or dill after cooking.
• Swap paprika for smoked paprika for a smoky taste.
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.
• Grill the tenders instead of pan-frying for a charred flavor.

FAQs

Q: Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?
A: Yes. Slice breasts into strips and adjust cooking time until they reach 165°F (74°C).

Q: How long can I marinate the chicken?
A: You can marinate 30 minutes to 4 hours. Avoid marinating much longer because the lemon can change the texture.

Q: Can I bake these instead of cooking in a skillet?
A: Yes. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15–20 minutes, flipping once, until cooked through.

Q: Is this recipe freezer friendly?
A: Cooked chicken can be frozen for up to 2 months in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Q: Can I make this without lemon?
A: You can use a little white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar, but lemon gives the best fresh taste.

Quick Mediterranean Chicken Tenders

• Author: bennacer-blogbrandinggmail-com
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Pan-Frying
• Cuisine: Mediterranean
• Diet: Gluten-Free

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Description

Juicy chicken tenders marinated with lemon and garlic, cooked quickly for a flavorful weeknight meal.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound chicken tenders
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Mix the garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper in a bowl to make the marinade.
2. Add the chicken tenders to the bowl and coat them well. Let them sit for at least 30 minutes so they soak up the flavor.
3. Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a little oil if the pan is dry.
4. Cook the tenders for about 5–7 minutes on each side until golden and no longer pink inside.
5. Let them rest a minute before serving so the juices stay inside.

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Notes

For best flavor, marinate for at least 30 minutes. Don’t overcrowd the pan while cooking.

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Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 300mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 5g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 35g
• Cholesterol: 80mg