I’ve always loved creating dishes that feel comforting yet light, and these Crispy Greek Chicken Tenders are exactly that. Every time I prepare them, I’m reminded of my first trip to the Mediterranean, where food is all about fresh herbs, citrus, and bold but clean flavors. I wanted to recreate that feeling in a recipe that’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner, but special enough to serve to guests. That’s how these Greek-style chicken tenders came to life.
What makes these tenders unique is the vibrant marinade. I use Greek yogurt as a base — not only for its tangy flavor but also for how tender it makes the chicken. Add in garlic, lemon, oregano, and a touch of paprika, and you’ve got a flavor profile that’s bright, herby, and just a little smoky. The yogurt also helps the breadcrumb coating stick beautifully, so every piece gets golden and crispy without needing to deep-fry.
I bake these tenders until they’re perfectly crispy on the outside and juicy inside. Baking keeps things lighter and healthier, but still delivers that satisfying crunch. Plus, I love how easy cleanup is — just one pan and no oily mess.
This recipe has become a go-to in my kitchen, especially when I want something everyone will enjoy without much fuss. Serve them with a side of tzatziki, a fresh salad, or even some roasted veggies, and you’ve got a balanced, flavorful meal. I often double the batch because leftovers (if there are any) are amazing in wraps or lunch bowls the next day.
Whether you’re new to Greek flavors or already a fan, these chicken tenders are a delicious way to enjoy a healthier twist on a classic favorite.
Ingredients:
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500g chicken breast tenders (or sliced chicken breasts)
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1 cup plain Greek yogurt
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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2 garlic cloves, minced
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1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
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1 teaspoon lemon zest
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1 teaspoon dried oregano
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1/2 teaspoon ground paprika
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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1/4 teaspoon black pepper
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1 and 1/2 cups breadcrumbs (whole wheat or panko preferred)
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1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
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Cooking spray or a drizzle of olive oil for baking
How to Bake Crispy Greek Chicken Tenders:
To begin, combine the Greek yogurt, olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Stir until the marinade is smooth and well mixed. Add the chicken tenders to the bowl and coat each piece thoroughly. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to absorb. For the best taste and texture, marinate the chicken for up to 2 hours.
While the chicken is marinating, prepare your breadcrumb mixture. In a shallow dish, mix the breadcrumbs with dried thyme for extra flavor. This blend gives the chicken a herby and crispy coating after baking.
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil. This step prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
Next, take each marinated chicken tender and coat it in the breadcrumb mixture. Press gently so the crumbs stick well. Place each coated piece on the prepared baking sheet, keeping space between them for even baking. Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray or drizzle a small amount of olive oil to help them crisp up in the oven.
Bake the tenders in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, turning them once halfway through. The outside should be golden and crispy, while the inside stays tender and juicy. Make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.
Once done, remove the tenders from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve hot with your favorite dip like tzatziki, or pair them with a fresh cucumber salad or lemony rice for a wholesome meal.
How Long to Bake Crispy Greek Chicken Tenders
Baking these tenders is not only easy, but it also ensures they stay juicy and light. I always preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and let it fully reach that temperature before placing the tray inside. Once the tenders are on the baking sheet and lightly oiled on top, I bake them for 20 to 25 minutes.
Halfway through, I flip each tender using tongs. This step helps both sides get that beautiful golden crust. If you like them extra crispy, turn on the broiler for the last 2–3 minutes, but keep an eye on them. It’s easy to go from golden to burned quickly under a broiler.
Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). That’s when the chicken is safely cooked, moist, and ready to serve.
How to Store Leftovers
Leftovers are a lifesaver during busy weekdays, and these chicken tenders store wonderfully. First, let the cooked tenders cool down to room temperature. Then transfer them into an airtight container and place them in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days.
If you want to freeze them, wrap each tender individually in parchment paper, place them in a freezer bag, and store them for up to 2 months. When reheating from the fridge, I prefer using the oven or air fryer to bring back the crispiness. Just bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes. If frozen, add a few extra minutes.
Avoid using the microwave, as it tends to make the coating soft. A toaster oven also works well when you’re only heating a small portion.
Tips for Perfect Crispy Greek Chicken Tenders
One of the most helpful tips I’ve discovered is drying the chicken tenders slightly with paper towels before marinating. This helps the yogurt marinade stick better, ensuring every bite is full of flavor. Also, don’t skip the marinating step — even 30 minutes makes a huge difference.
When coating the chicken, press the breadcrumbs gently but firmly. That way, the crust forms a solid layer that won’t fall off during baking. I like to use panko for a light and airy crunch, but whole wheat breadcrumbs also work well for added nutrition.
If you’re aiming for extra crispiness without frying, a wire rack placed on top of the baking sheet can really help. It allows the hot air to circulate around the chicken evenly, crisping all sides.
Always remember to leave space between the tenders while baking. Crowding them on the tray causes steaming, which makes the coating soggy instead of crisp.
Lastly, play around with herbs! A sprinkle of rosemary, dill, or even a pinch of chili flakes can take the flavor to the next level.
Crispy Greek Chicken Tenders: Flavorful, Easy & Healthy!
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
These Crispy Greek Chicken Tenders are flavorful, easy to prepare, and a healthier alternative to fried chicken. Marinated in Greek yogurt with garlic, lemon, and herbs, then baked until golden, they deliver bold Mediterranean taste in every bite. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or even meal prep.
Ingredients
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500g chicken breast tenders
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1 cup plain Greek yogurt
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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2 garlic cloves, minced
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1 tablespoon lemon juice
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1 teaspoon lemon zest
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1 teaspoon dried oregano
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1/2 teaspoon paprika
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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1/4 teaspoon pepper
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1 1/2 cups breadcrumbs (panko or whole wheat)
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1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
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Olive oil spray or drizzle for baking
Instructions
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In a bowl, mix yogurt, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, zest, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
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Add chicken tenders and coat well. Cover and marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.
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Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment or lightly grease.
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In a dish, combine breadcrumbs and thyme.
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Coat each tender in the breadcrumb mix, pressing gently.
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Place on the baking sheet with space between.
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Lightly spray or drizzle oil on top.
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Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping once halfway.
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Check for doneness (165°F / 74°C internal temperature).
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Let rest a few minutes before serving.
Notes
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For extra crispiness, bake on a wire rack.
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Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.
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Leftovers can be refrigerated for 3 days or frozen up to 2 months.
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Reheat in oven or air fryer to retain crispiness.
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Serve with tzatziki or lemon-garlic yogurt dip.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make these chicken tenders gluten-free?
Absolutely. To make this recipe gluten-free, simply replace the breadcrumbs with a gluten-free alternative. Many stores carry gluten-free panko or whole grain blends that work just as well. Additionally, double-check that your Greek yogurt and spices are labeled gluten-free. The result is still crispy, flavorful, and safe for anyone avoiding gluten.
2. What’s the best dipping sauce to serve with these tenders?
Tzatziki sauce is my favorite choice. Its creamy, refreshing taste pairs beautifully with the bold flavors of the tenders. You can also try a lemon-garlic yogurt sauce or even hummus for something a bit heartier. If you like a bit of spice, a harissa yogurt dip adds a fiery kick that still complements the Mediterranean flavor profile.
3. Can I cook these in an air fryer instead of baking?
Yes, and they turn out incredibly crispy! Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C). Arrange the coated chicken tenders in a single layer in the basket, making sure they don’t overlap. Air fry them for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through. They should come out golden brown and crunchy, with less oil and an even faster cook time.
4. Are these chicken tenders suitable for meal prep?
Definitely. These tenders hold up very well when stored and reheated properly. I often make a double batch and use them throughout the week. Slice them into salads, stuff them into wraps, or serve them alongside some quinoa and veggies for a quick lunch. Just keep them in an airtight container in the fridge, and reheat in the oven or air fryer to bring back their crispiness.