Name: Crispy Greek Chicken Tenders
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 4 h 20 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: Chicken tenders; Olive oil; Fresh lemon juice; Garlic cloves, minced; Dried oregano; Fresh parsley, chopped; Fresh dill, chopped (optional); Salt and freshly ground black pepper; Red pepper flakes (optional)

These Crispy Greek Chicken Tenders are marinated in a zesty, herb-packed Greek-style marinade, then grilled to golden perfection with a slight char and tons of flavor. Fresh herbs, garlic, lemon, and olive oil come together to give the chicken a vibrant Mediterranean profile that’s both refreshing and comforting.

Crispy Greek Chicken Tenders

Why I Love This Recipe

I love how these chicken tenders pack such bold, authentic Greek flavor with minimal ingredients. The marinade is simple, but the lemon and herbs give it a brightness that makes every bite pop. It’s my go-to when I want something healthy but crave the satisfaction of crisp, grilled chicken. Plus, it pairs well with just about anything—pita, salad, or roasted veggies.

ingredients

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

Chicken tenders
Olive oil
Fresh lemon juice
Garlic cloves, minced
Dried oregano
Fresh parsley, chopped
Fresh dill, chopped (optional but I like the added freshness)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
Red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)

directions

I start by placing the chicken tenders in a large bowl or zip-top bag.
Then I whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, parsley, dill (if using), salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
I pour the marinade over the chicken and toss well to coat. I let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, but I usually go for 2–4 hours for maximum flavor.
When ready to cook, I preheat the grill or grill pan over medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates.
I grill the chicken tenders for about 3–4 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and nicely charred.
I serve immediately with extra herbs sprinkled on top and lemon wedges on the side.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Marinate time: 30 minutes to 4 hours
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: up to 4 hours 20 minutes (including marinating)

Variations

Oven-baked: When I can’t grill, I bake the tenders at 425°F (220°C) for about 18–20 minutes.
Air fryer: I also love making these in the air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for about 10–12 minutes.
Add cheese: A sprinkle of crumbled feta on top adds a salty finish.
More herbs: I sometimes throw in fresh mint or basil for a twist.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, I like using the air fryer or oven to keep the tenders crispy. 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes does the trick. I avoid the microwave if I want to keep that grilled texture.

FAQs

How long should I marinate the chicken?

I recommend at least 30 minutes, but 2–4 hours will give the best flavor. Overnight works too if I want to prep ahead.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?

Absolutely. I just slice the breasts into strips to mimic tenders and follow the same steps.

What can I serve with Greek chicken tenders?

I usually pair them with Greek salad, lemon rice, tzatziki, or warm pita bread.

Can I cook these without a grill?

Yes. I’ve made them in the oven, skillet, and air fryer—all turn out great with slightly different textures.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, it’s naturally gluten-free as long as all ingredients (like spices) are certified gluten-free.

Conclusion

These Crispy Greek Chicken Tenders are full of bold Mediterranean flavor and perfect for any day of the week. Whether I’m grilling for guests or prepping a healthy meal for myself, this recipe never fails. It’s fresh, simple, and always a crowd-pleaser.