Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 1 1/2 lbs chicken tenders
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Crispy Coating:
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional for Serving:
- Lemon wedges
- Tzatziki sauce
Instructions
1. Marinate the Chicken
- In a large bowl, combine Greek yogurt, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Add chicken tenders and toss to coat evenly.
- Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 4 hours for maximum flavor.
2. Prepare the Coating
- In a shallow dish, mix panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Coat the Chicken
- Remove chicken tenders from the marinade, letting excess drip off.
- Dredge each tender in the panko mixture, pressing lightly so it adheres well.
4. Cook the Chicken
Oven Method:
- Preheat oven to 425ยฐF (220ยฐC).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place the tenders on it.
- Lightly spray or brush with olive oil.
- Bake for 15โ20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.
Air Fryer Method:
- Preheat air fryer to 400ยฐF (200ยฐC).
- Place tenders in a single layer in the basket.
- Air fry for 10โ12 minutes, flipping halfway, until crispy and fully cooked.
Pan-Fry Method:
- Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Cook tenders 3โ4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Serve
- Serve hot with lemon wedges and tzatziki sauce for dipping.
๐ก Tips for Extra Crispy Tenders:
- Pat the chicken lightly with paper towels before dredging to remove excess marinade.
- Double coat the tenders by dipping again in yogurt (or egg wash) and then panko for extra crunch.
- Let baked tenders rest 2 minutes before serving to lock in juices.