Crispy Greek Chicken Tenders

Crispy Greek Chicken Tenders are juicy strips of chicken coated with a flavorful blend of herbs and spices, then baked or lightly fried to golden perfection. This recipe offers a healthy yet satisfying way to enjoy tender chicken with the bright, fresh flavors of Greek cuisine—perfect for a quick dinner or snack.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s easy to prepare and delivers a crispy, flavorful chicken tender without deep frying or heavy breading. The Greek-inspired seasoning with garlic, oregano, and lemon zest adds a fresh, zesty twist that keeps the tenders light and delicious. It’s a healthy option that never compromises on taste, making it a family favorite.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 pounds chicken tenders or chicken breast strips

• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• 1 teaspoon lemon zest

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

• 1/2 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs or panko

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. In a bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken tenders and toss to coat well. Marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours) in the refrigerator.

2. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease it with olive oil.

3. Spread the breadcrumbs on a shallow plate. Remove each chicken tender from the marinade, letting the excess drip off, then coat thoroughly in the breadcrumbs.

4. Place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Drizzle or spray the tops lightly with olive oil to help crisp up the coating.

5. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden and crispy.

6. Serve warm with a side of tzatziki sauce, lemon wedges, or your favorite salad.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 4 people and takes about 40 minutes total, including marinating and baking time.

Variations

I like to add a pinch of cumin or smoked paprika for a deeper flavor. Using almond flour instead of breadcrumbs makes this recipe low-carb and gluten-free. For extra crispiness, I sometimes finish the tenders with a quick pan sear after baking. Serving with pita bread and fresh veggies turns it into a delicious wrap.

Storage/Reheating

Leftover chicken tenders store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, I prefer warming them in the oven or air fryer to maintain their crispiness, but microwaving works in a pinch.

FAQs

Can I skip the yogurt marinade?

The yogurt helps tenderize the chicken and adds flavor, but you can use a simple olive oil and lemon juice marinade as an alternative.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?

Yes, just cut the chicken breasts into strips of similar size for even cooking.

Are these tenders gluten-free?

If I use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour, the recipe is gluten-free.

How do I make the coating extra crispy?

Drizzling olive oil over the coated tenders before baking and baking at a high temperature helps achieve a crispy texture.

Can I make these tenders ahead of time?

I prefer marinating ahead and baking right before serving for the best texture and flavor.

Conclusion

Crispy Greek Chicken Tenders are a delicious, healthy, and easy meal that combines juicy chicken with vibrant Mediterranean flavors and a satisfying crunch. They’re perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a snack, or even party appetizers. I always appreciate how simple this recipe is while still delivering bold, fresh tastes and a crispy finish.