A Mediterranean-Inspired Pan-Fried Chicken Tenders Marinated to Perfection For a Flavorful Easy Weeknight Meal Dinner Recipe
Looking for a delicious and easy weeknight meal that’s packed with flavor? Look no further than these Mediterranean-inspired pan-fried chicken tenders. First and foremost, the pan-fried chicken tenders recipe combines the tanginess of freshly squeezed lemon juice, with the aromatic fresh herbs of oregano, thyme and rosemary. Additionally, the smoky depth of paprika added to the marinade creates a truly unforgettable dish.
Key to Developing The Pan-Fried Chicken Tenders Flavors:
Importantly, the key to this pan-fried chicken tenders dish lies in the marinade. The simple blend of garlic, fresh herbs, lemon juice, white wine, and olive oil infuses the chicken with a vibrant Mediterranean flavor profile. Moreover, to prepare the chicken tenders, simply toss them in the marinade and let them sit in the refrigerator for at least an hour (or overnight for even more intense flavor).
Get RecipeNext, once marinated, the chicken tenders are pan-fried to golden perfection. A cast iron skillet is ideal for achieving a crispy exterior and juicy interior. Serve the chicken tenders hot with pita bread, sliced onions, smoked kalamata olives, sliced tomatoes, and a drizzle of homemade tomato sauce (see recipe card notes). Additionally, we use our homemade chickpeas pita bread.
Customization Tips:
- To Start, spice it up: For a spicier kick, adjust the heat level by adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or more red pepper flakes to the marinade.
- Make it vegetarian: Specifically,, substitute the chicken tenders with tofu for a vegetarian-friendly option.
- Experiment with herbs: Or, simply swap out the oregano, thyme, and rosemary for other herbs like basil, parsley, or mint to create different flavor profiles.
- Add vegetables: Additionally, serve the chicken tenders with a side of roasted vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers for a complete meal.
- Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free pita bread to accommodate dietary restrictions.
Serving Suggestions for these Pan-Fried Chicken Tenders:
These pan-fried chicken tenders are perfect for a casual weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends and family. Moreover, serve them with a side of rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. For a more indulgent experience, pair them with a glass of chilled white wine.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, these pan-fried chicken tenders are a delicious and easy recipe to try. With a few simple ingredients and a little time, you can create a flavorful and satisfying meal that will impress your loved ones
BONUS – Homemade N0-Cooked Tomato Sauce:
Finally, to complement the flavors of the chicken tenders, try making your own homemade no-cooked tomato sauce. This creamy and tangy dip is a flavor-packed condiment that pairs perfectly with grilled meats, vegetables, and pita bread.
Get RecipeRecommended Video Tutorials:
Disclosures:
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Nutritional information
This website provides approximate nutrition information for convenience and as a courtesy only. Nutrition information can vary for a variety of reasons. For the most precise nutritional data use your preferred nutrition calculator based on the actual ingredients you used in the recipe
Pan-Fried Chicken Tenders
Ingredients
For the Marinade:
- 3 – 4 cloves garlic roughly chopped
- 2 teaspoons fresh oregano leaves
- 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary sprigs
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tablespoons white wine
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
For the chicken tenders:
- 3 pounds chicken tenders
- all of the marinade
- 2 – 2 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 3/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes Optional
For Pan Frying the chicken and serving:
- avocado oil or vegetable oil
- Pita breads
- sliced onions
- smoked kalamata olives or your favorite olives
- sliced tomatoes
- no cooked tomato sauce (Ingredients in notes)
Instructions
Make the marinade and marinate the chicken tenders:
- In a mini food processor, puree the marinade ingredients until well combined.3 – 4 cloves garlic , 2 teaspoons fresh oregano leaves, 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves, 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary sprigs, 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice, 1 tablespoons white wine, 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- In a medium mixing bowl, add the chicken tenders. Pour in all the marinade. Add the salt, black pepper, paprika and red pepper flakes. Mix to coat the chicken tenders with the marinade seasoning. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1 to 2 hours.3 pounds chicken tenders, all of the marinade, 2 – 2 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt, 3/4 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Pan Fry the chicken tenders:
- Remove the chicken tenders from the fridge at least 30 minutes before cooking.
- Heat a cast iron pan over medium high heat. Add enough avocado oil into pan to thinly coat the bottom.avocado oil
- Pan fry the chicken tenders in batches. Cook each side 3 to 4 minutes until golden brown. Use medium heat. Remove the chicken to a platter.
- Serve the chicken tenders warm with pita bread, sliced onions, olives, tomatoes and sauce.Pita breads, sliced onions, smoked kalamata olives, no cooked tomato sauce, sliced tomatoes
Video
Notes
Nutrition
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