Description
Enjoy crispy Greek chicken tenders baked to perfection and served with a refreshing dairy-free tzatziki sauce. This flavorful dish combines juicy marinated chicken strips coated in crunchy panko and herbs for a delicious, healthy meal that’s perfect for a family dinner or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken Tenders
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 2 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated dairy-free parmesan cheese (optional)
Dairy-Free Tzatziki Sauce
- 1 cup dairy-free yogurt
- 1/2 cup grated cucumber (squeezed dry)
- 1 clove minced garlic
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh mint
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Chicken: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the chicken breasts into strips approximately one inch wide to create evenly sized tenders.
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Coat the chicken strips thoroughly in this marinade and allow them to sit for at least 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Coat with Breadcrumbs: Set up a breading station with panko breadcrumbs mixed optionally with grated dairy-free parmesan cheese. Dip each marinated chicken strip into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure they are fully coated. Place the coated strips on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake the Tenders: Bake the chicken tenders in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, turning them halfway through baking to ensure even crispiness and golden brown color.
- Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce: While the chicken bakes, combine dairy-free yogurt, grated cucumber (well squeezed to remove excess moisture), minced garlic, chopped fresh mint, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Mix well until the sauce is creamy and well combined.
- Serve: Once the chicken tenders are golden and crispy, serve them hot alongside the prepared dairy-free tzatziki sauce for a delicious dipping experience.
Notes
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken for up to an hour if time permits.
- Use parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to ensure easy cleanup and prevent sticking.
- Feel free to substitute fresh oregano for dried if available, adjusting the quantity accordingly.
- The dairy-free parmesan is optional but adds a savory note to the coating.
- Make sure to squeeze the grated cucumber thoroughly to prevent a watery sauce.
- This recipe is naturally gluten-free if you use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs.
