Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders

Name: Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound chicken tenders; 1 cup panko breadcrumbs; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon lemon zest; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 2 large eggs, beaten; Cooking oil (for frying or brushing if baking)

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Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders are a delightful blend of savory flavors and crunchy texture that elevate the classic chicken tender to new heights. Imagine biting into a crispy exterior, beautifully seasoned with garlic and zesty lemon, and revealing tender chicken within. This recipe is not only simple to prepare but also quickly becomes a family favorite. Having prepared these tenders for various gatherings, I can assure you that they disappear fast. Whether as a weeknight dinner or a finger-food option for parties, these chicken tenders are a must-try!

Table of Contents

Why Make This Recipe

These Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders promise to satisfy a wide range of palates. Quick to whip up, they bring a gourmet touch to a familiar dish without breaking the bank or consuming your entire evening. Picture serving these at casual family dinners, fun brunches, or even holiday gatherings, they’re versatile enough for any occasion!

“These chicken tenders are the perfect blend of crunchy and savory. My kids couldn’t get enough!” – A satisfied home cook.

How to Make Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders

This recipe simplifies the cooking process while delivering unbeatable flavors. Essentially, you’ll coat the chicken tenders in a zesty breadcrumb mixture before either baking or frying them to achieve that golden crust. Now, let’s look at what you’ll need.

Ingredients

Gather these items for the perfect Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders:

1 pound chicken tenders
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon lemon zest
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs, beaten
Cooking oil (for frying or brushing if baking)

Don’t hesitate to experiment with ingredients; for instance, try adding herbs like parsley or thyme for an extra flavor kick.

Directions

Follow these straightforward steps to create mouthwatering chicken tenders:

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 400°F for baking, or heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat for frying.

Step 2

In a bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Mix well until evenly combined.

Step 3

Create a breading station with three shallow dishes: one for flour, one for beaten eggs, and one for the breadcrumb mixture.

Step 4

Dredge each chicken tender in flour, ensuring it’s well-coated, then dip it into the beaten eggs, followed by coating it with the breadcrumb mixture.

Step 5

Bake on a lined baking sheet for 15-20 minutes until golden, flipping halfway for even cooking. Alternatively, fry in hot oil until golden and cooked through.

Step 6

Serve hot and enjoy!

How to Serve Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders

For a visually appealing plate, consider arranging the chicken tenders on a colorful platter with a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top. Serve them alongside a zesty dipping sauce, like aioli or ranch, and pair with crispy veggies or a light salad for balance. These tenders also pair beautifully with a refreshing lemon wedge to brighten up the dish even more!

How to Store

To keep your chicken tenders fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you wish to enjoy them later, freezing is another excellent option. Lay the cooled tenders on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to resealable bags. When ready to eat, reheat in the oven or air fryer, ensuring that they reach the correct internal temperature of 165°F for food safety.

Tips to Make

For a crunchier texture, use a mix of regular and panko breadcrumbs.
Marinating the chicken in lemon juice for 30 minutes can infuse more flavor.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken cooks through without drying out.

Variations

Feel free to switch things up! You could coat the tenders with crushed cornflakes instead of panko for a different texture, or introduce a spicy kick by adding red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture. For a gluten-free option, substitute regular flour and panko with certified gluten-free versions.

Conclusion

These Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders are bound to impress and will likely become a staple in your kitchen. With their fantastic taste and easy preparation, why not give this recipe a try? Remember to share your feedback and let others know how you made it your own!

FAQ

How long does it take to prepare these chicken tenders?
From start to finish, expect about 30-40 minutes, making it perfect for a quick dinner.

Can I use boneless chicken breasts instead of tenders?
Absolutely! Just cut the chicken breasts into strips that are similar in size to the tenders to ensure even cooking.

What’s the best way to reheat leftover chicken tenders?
Reheat them in the oven or air fryer to maintain their crispiness rather than using a microwave, which can make them soggy.

Can I make these tenders ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare them ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator or freezer. Then, just bake or fry them when you’re ready to serve!

Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders

Table of Contents

Why Make This Recipe

How to Make Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders

Ingredients