Mediterranean Chicken Tenders
A simple and delicious recipe for Mediterranean chicken tenders that are marinated to perfection and cooked quickly for a weeknight dinner that feels fancy.
Ingredients
Marinade
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt or to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken tenders, trimmed and ready to cook
Garnish
- fresh parsley, chopped optional
- lemon wedges optional
Instructions
Preparation
- In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well combined to create the marinade.
- Add the chicken tenders to the bowl, tossing to coat them evenly. Cover with plastic wrap and let marinate for at least 15 minutes (or up to 2 hours in the fridge for deeper flavor).
Cooking
- Preheat your skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil to coat the pan.
- Once the skillet is hot, add the marinated chicken tenders in a single layer. Cook for 4-5 minutes on one side, until golden brown.
- Flip the chicken tenders and cook for another 4-5 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for 2 minutes before serving. This helps lock in the juices.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges for extra brightness.
Notes
Avoid crowding the pan while cooking, as it can cause the chicken to steam instead of sear. For a crispier edge, finish the chicken under the broiler for 1 minute, but watch closely.