Description
This Flavorful Mediterranean Chicken Tenders recipe is a quick and easy 30-minute dinner option featuring tender chicken marinated with olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, oregano, and paprika. Pan-seared to golden perfection, these chicken tenders are juicy, aromatic, and perfect for a wholesome weeknight meal or casual gathering, garnished with fresh parsley and lemon wedges for a bright finish.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Marinade
- 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
Garnish (Optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, dried oregano, paprika, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Whisk the mixture thoroughly until all ingredients are well blended to form the marinade.
- Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken tenders to the bowl and toss them well to coat evenly with the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the chicken marinate for at least 15 minutes at room temperature. For a deeper infusion of flavors, refrigerate for up to 2 hours.
- Preheat the Skillet: Place a skillet over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of olive oil to coat the pan, ensuring it is hot before adding the chicken to achieve a good sear.
- Cook the First Side: Arrange the marinated chicken tenders in a single layer in the hot skillet. Cook for 4-5 minutes without moving them to develop a golden brown crust on one side.
- Cook the Second Side: Flip the chicken tenders carefully and continue cooking for another 4-5 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C), indicating they are fully cooked through.
- Rest the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for 2 minutes. This resting period helps retain moisture and juiciness inside the tenders.
- Serve and Garnish: Plate the chicken tenders and garnish with chopped fresh parsley and lemon wedges. Serve immediately to enjoy the bright, fresh flavors.
Notes
- For even more flavor, marinate the chicken up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F.
- If desired, serve with a side of couscous, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- The recipe can be easily doubled to serve more people.
- Extra virgin olive oil adds the best flavor, but regular olive oil can be used as a substitute.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Keywords: Mediterranean chicken tenders, easy chicken dinner, quick chicken recipe, pan-seared chicken, healthy chicken recipe, lemon garlic chicken, chicken with oregano and paprika
