Flavorful Mediterranean Chicken Tenders
Bright, tangy, and perfectly seasoned, these chicken tenders boast a golden sear and juicy interior, enhanced by a lemon and olive oil marinade with Mediterranean herbs and spices.
Ingredients
For the Marinade
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (Extra virgin preferred) You can use a neutral oil like avocado or canola if desired.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced Fresh minced garlic gives best flavor; garlic powder can be used in a pinch but use less.
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice Fresh is ideal for brightness.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano If using fresh oregano, use about 1 tablespoon finely chopped instead.
- 1 teaspoon paprika Increase to 1 1/2 teaspoons for a deeper flavor.
- 1 teaspoon salt Start with the listed amount and adjust to taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken tenders, trimmed Ready to cook; can substitute with boneless skinless chicken breast.
For Serving
- fresh parsley, chopped
- lemon wedges
Instructions
Preparation
- Combine the olive oil, minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, dried oregano, paprika, salt, and black pepper in a bowl. Whisk until blended.
- Add the chicken tenders to the bowl and toss until evenly coated. Let sit for 10–20 minutes at room temperature, or refrigerate for a deeper flavor for up to 2 hours.
Cooking
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil if the pan is dry.
- Place chicken tenders in the skillet and cook for about 3–4 minutes per side, turning once, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F / 74°C).
- Transfer cooked tenders to a platter and let rest for 2–3 minutes before serving.
Notes
For a restaurant-style finish, squeeze a lemon wedge over the tenders just before serving and sprinkle with fresh parsley. Adjust salt to taste after cooking.