Mediterranean Chicken Tenders Recipe
Introduction
These Mediterranean Chicken Tenders are a quick and flavorful meal perfect for any weeknight. Marinated with herbs, garlic, and lemon, they bring a fresh and zesty taste to your dinner table.

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
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Optional garnish: fresh parsley, chopped
- Optional garnish: lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Step 1: Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Step 2: Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Step 3: Season the chicken tenders with oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Step 4: Add the chicken tenders to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, until fully cooked.
- Step 5: Drizzle with fresh lemon juice before serving.
- Step 6: Garnish with chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken tenders in the olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and spices for 30 minutes before cooking.
- Serve these tenders alongside a fresh salad, rice, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
- Swap paprika for smoked paprika to add a subtle smoky note.
- If you prefer, grill the chicken tenders instead of cooking them in a skillet for a charred, outdoor flavor.
Storage
Store any leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave to keep them moist and flavorful.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breast instead of chicken tenders?
Yes, you can use chicken breast cut into strips, but adjust the cooking time as breasts may take slightly longer to cook through.
How can I tell when the chicken tenders are fully cooked?
Chicken tenders are fully cooked when their internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the juices run clear without any pink.
PrintMediterranean Chicken Tenders Recipe
This Mediterranean Chicken Tenders recipe features tender chicken cooked in a fragrant blend of garlic, lemon, and classic herbs like oregano and paprika, delivering a flavorful and healthy main dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a light lunch.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12-14 minutes
- Total Time: 22-24 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Halal
Ingredients
For the Chicken Tenders
- 1 lb chicken tenders, trimmed and ready to cook
- 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
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Optional Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil: Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat until shimmering and hot.
- Sauté the garlic: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned, infusing the oil with flavor.
- Season the chicken: While the garlic cooks, season the chicken tenders evenly with dried oregano, paprika, salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
- Cook the chicken: Place the seasoned chicken tenders in the skillet and cook for 5 to 7 minutes on each side, or until they are fully cooked through and have a golden brown exterior.
- Add lemon juice: Just before serving, drizzle the chicken with fresh lemon juice to add brightness and enhance the Mediterranean flavors.
- Garnish and serve: Garnish the chicken tenders with chopped fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side for an extra citrusy kick.
Notes
- You can adjust the seasoning to your preference by adding more or less paprika or oregano.
- Serve these chicken tenders alongside a fresh side salad or cooked rice for a complete meal.
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken tenders in the olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and spices for 30 minutes before cooking.
- Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
Keywords: Mediterranean chicken, chicken tenders, garlic chicken, lemon chicken, quick chicken recipe, healthy chicken, easy dinner

