Dinner

Flavorful Mediterranean Chicken Tenders Recipe – Easy 30-Min Dinner Recipe

Name: Flavorful Mediterranean Chicken Tenders Recipe – Easy 30-Min Dinner Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken tenders, trimmed and ready to cook; 2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin preferred); 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; Fresh parsley, chopped; Lemon wedges

Byanna orden February 11, 2026February 11, 2026

Jump to Recipe

Introduction

This Flavorful Mediterranean Chicken Tenders recipe is a quick and easy dinner option that packs a punch of vibrant, fresh flavors. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without the fuss.

The image shows a close-up of three golden-brown grilled chicken breasts stacked on top of each other, each piece covered in a textured mix of herbs, garlic, and melted cheese, creating small browned spots on the surface. The chicken looks juicy with some caramelized edges, and a sprig of green rosemary lies beside them. Bright yellow slices of lemon and a few small yellow cherry tomatoes add color contrast around the chicken. The background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 lb chicken tenders, trimmed and ready to cook
2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin preferred)
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
Optional garnish: fresh parsley, chopped, and lemon wedges

Instructions

Step 1: In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well combined to create the marinade.
Step 2: 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).
Step 3: Preheat your skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil to coat the pan.
Step 4: 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.
Step 5: Flip the chicken tenders and cook for another 4-5 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Step 6: Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for 2 minutes before serving. This helps lock in the juices.
Step 7: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges for extra brightness.

Tips & Variations

For a spicier kick, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the marinade.
Try swapping dried oregano for fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a different herbal note.
Serve the chicken tenders over a bed of couscous or with a Greek salad for a complete Mediterranean meal.
Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of tenders for a juicier result.

Storage

Store leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over medium heat or microwave until heated through, being careful not to overcook to maintain tenderness.

How to Serve

The image shows a stack of four golden-brown grilled chicken pieces placed closely on a white plate, each piece covered with a mix of herbs and melted cheese, giving a crispy and textured surface with some green and white specks. The chicken looks juicy with charred edges and small bits of garlic and parsley on top, while a yellow lemon wedge and green rosemary sprigs are positioned around the pile. The background is a white marbled texture, making the colors of the chicken and garnishes stand out clearly. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I marinate the chicken overnight?

Yes, marinating overnight in the refrigerator will deepen the flavors, but be mindful not to exceed 24 hours as the acidity from the lemon juice can start to break down the chicken’s texture.