Looking for a flavorful and speedy weeknight meal solution? These Quick Mediterranean Chicken Tenders are your answer, offering a burst of fresh, zesty flavors wrapped in a simple, satisfying dish perfect for busy households. This recipe is designed for maximum taste with minimal effort, making it a go-to option for a healthy and delicious dinner.
Key Ingredients for Quick Mediterranean Chicken Tenders
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch tenders
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
- Optional: 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese, for garnish
- Optional: Kalamata olives, sliced, for garnish
How to Make Quick Mediterranean Chicken Tenders
Prepare for a culinary adventure that’s as easy as it is delightful! These Quick Mediterranean Chicken Tenders are incredibly simple to prepare, bursting with vibrant Mediterranean herbs and a hint of citrusy brightness. In just about 20 minutes of active cooking and prep, you’ll have a wholesome, satisfying meal that everyone will adore. The tender chicken, marinated to perfection, is pan-seared to a beautiful golden brown, creating a juicy inside and a slightly crisp exterior.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, dried oregano, dried basil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken tenders to the marinade. Toss gently to ensure each piece is well coated. Let the chicken marinate for at least 10 minutes at room temperature, or up to 30 minutes in the refrigerator. For this quick recipe, 10 minutes is sufficient to infuse the flavors.
- Heat the Skillet: Place a large skillet (cast iron works wonderfully here for a good sear) over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet if it’s not non-stick or if you prefer a little extra crispiness.
- Cook the Chicken Tenders: Carefully place the marinated chicken tenders in the hot skillet in a single layer, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. You may need to cook them in batches. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Rest and Serve: Once cooked, remove the chicken tenders from the skillet and let them rest on a plate for a minute or two. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring maximum tenderness and flavor.
- Garnish and Enjoy: Transfer the cooked chicken tenders to a serving platter. Garnish generously with fresh chopped parsley. For an extra layer of Mediterranean flair and a creamy, salty kick, sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese and sliced Kalamata olives, if desired. Serve immediately.
Why You’ll Love This Quick Mediterranean Chicken Tenders
The star of this dish is undoubtedly the succulent, tender chicken infused with the bright, aromatic flavors of oregano, basil, and lemon. It’s a healthier, more flavorful alternative to fried chicken tenders, offering a taste of the Mediterranean with every bite. Plus, making these Quick Mediterranean Chicken Tenders at home is incredibly budget-friendly compared to ordering takeout, allowing you to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal without breaking the bank. The vibrant fresh parsley and optional salty feta and olives add a delightful pop of color and taste that elevates this simple dish to something truly special.
Imagine the satisfying aroma filling your kitchen, the juicy chicken yielding to your fork, and the zesty notes dancing on your palate. It’s the perfect quick dinner that feels both wholesome and indulgent. If you’re a fan of lemony chicken dishes or quick pasta recipes with a Mediterranean twist, you’ll fall in love with how easily these tenders come together and how versatile they are as a main course. So go ahead, gather your ingredients and give these delightful Quick Mediterranean Chicken Tenders a try tonight – you won’t be disappointed!
Storing and Reheating Tips
To store any leftover Quick Mediterranean Chicken Tenders, allow them to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Properly stored in the refrigerator, these chicken tenders will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them. After cooling, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat your delicious chicken tenders, for best results and to maintain their juiciness, you can gently pan-fry them in a skillet over medium-low heat for a few minutes per side until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until heated through. If reheating from frozen, it’s best to thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating using the oven or stovetop methods. Microwaving is an option for speed, but can sometimes make the chicken a bit drier.
Final Thoughts
These Quick Mediterranean Chicken Tenders are a testament to how simple ingredients and a few minutes of your time can create an incredibly delicious and wholesome meal. Give them a try for a flavorful and fuss-free dinner option that’s sure to become a family favorite.
try also :
- Lentil and Sweet Potato Salad
- Cranberry Brie Bites
- Crispy Sweet Potato Bites
- Matcha Cake Recipe
- find more in Pinterest
Quick Mediterranean Chicken Tenders
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, dried oregano, dried basil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.1/4 cup olive oil, 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1 teaspoon dried basil, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, 1/4 teaspoon salt, or to taste, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
- Add the chicken tenders to the marinade. Toss gently to ensure each piece is well coated. Let the chicken marinate for at least 10 minutes at room temperature, or up to 30 minutes in the refrigerator. For this quick recipe, 10 minutes is sufficient to infuse the flavors.1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch tenders
- Place a large skillet (cast iron works wonderfully here for a good sear) over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet if it’s not non-stick or if you prefer a little extra crispiness.
- Carefully place the marinated chicken tenders in the hot skillet in a single layer, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. You may need to cook them in batches. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch tenders
- Once cooked, remove the chicken tenders from the skillet and let them rest on a plate for a minute or two. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring maximum tenderness and flavor.
- Transfer the cooked chicken tenders to a serving platter. Garnish generously with fresh chopped parsley. For an extra layer of Mediterranean flair and a creamy, salty kick, sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese and sliced Kalamata olives, if desired. Serve immediately.1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish, 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese, for garnish, N/A Kalamata olives, sliced, for garnish