Introduction
I absolutely love how Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders combine bright, zesty flavors with rich, savory notes, making them a dish that’s as satisfying as it is delicious. Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining guests, these chicken tenders are sure to be the star of the show. The lemon adds a fresh, tangy kick, while the garlic and Parmesan cheese bring out a depth of flavor that elevates the whole dish.
I’ve always been a fan of chicken tenders, but I wanted to find a way to make them more exciting and a little more sophisticated. That’s when the idea for this recipe came to me. The combination of lemon, garlic, and Parmesan creates the perfect balance of bright and savory. Plus, the chicken is crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with flavor in every bite. Whether you serve them as an appetizer, a side dish, or a main course, they are versatile enough to fit into any meal plan.
This recipe is incredibly easy to make, yet it feels like a special treat. It’s one of those dishes that will have everyone asking for the recipe, and they’ll never believe how simple it is to prepare. Trust me, once you make these Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders, they’ll become a go-to meal for every occasion!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Versatile
You can serve these chicken tenders in so many ways. Whether you pair them with a salad, pasta, or just eat them on their own, they’re sure to satisfy any craving. They also work as a quick weeknight dinner or a fancy appetizer for guests.
Budget-Friendly
Chicken tenders are an affordable cut of meat, and this recipe uses simple ingredients that you probably already have at home. You don’t need to break the bank to make a dish that feels fancy and tastes amazing.
Ingredients for the Recipe
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1 pound chicken tenders
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1 cup all-purpose flour
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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1/2 teaspoon black pepper
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1 teaspoon paprika
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2 large eggs
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1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
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3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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Juice and zest of 1 lemon
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How to Make This Recipe
Making Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders is incredibly easy and perfect for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create crispy, flavorful chicken tenders that will impress everyone. Here’s how to do it:
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the chicken tenders
Start by rinsing the chicken tenders under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels. This helps remove any excess moisture, allowing the coating to stick better. Once dry, set the chicken tenders aside while you prepare the breading.
Step 2: Set up the breading station
In one shallow bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Mix it all together so the spices are evenly distributed. In a second shallow bowl, whisk the eggs until smooth and slightly frothy. In a third shallow bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs. This is what will give your chicken tenders their crispy, golden crust.
Step 3: Coat the chicken tenders
Now it’s time to bread the chicken. First, dip each chicken tender into the flour mixture, making sure it’s completely coated. Shake off any excess flour before dipping it into the egg wash, ensuring it’s fully coated in egg. Finally, dredge the chicken tender in the Parmesan-breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently so the breadcrumbs adhere well. Repeat this process for all the chicken tenders.
Step 4: Cook the chicken tenders
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken tenders to the pan in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd them. You may need to cook them in batches. Fry the chicken tenders for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. The chicken should be cooked through with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Once cooked, transfer the chicken tenders to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
Step 5: Make the garlic lemon butter sauce
In a separate small pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic. Once the garlic is softened and aromatic, add the lemon juice and zest. Stir well to combine. Let the sauce simmer for an additional 2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Step 6: Coat the chicken tenders with the sauce
Once the garlic lemon butter sauce is ready, drizzle it over the cooked chicken tenders. Toss the chicken in the sauce to coat each tender evenly. This will infuse the chicken with that zesty lemon and savory garlic flavor.
Step 7: Garnish and serve
Finally, garnish your lemon garlic Parmesan chicken tenders with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and a fresh, herbal note. Serve the chicken tenders hot, and enjoy them with your favorite dipping sauce or a side of vegetables, salad, or even a side of pasta.
Quick and Easy
This recipe comes together in just under 30 minutes, making it a fantastic option for a busy weeknight meal or a quick weekend dinner. With the combination of crispy chicken and zesty lemon garlic sauce, it’s an easy dish that feels indulgent and satisfying. You’ll have a full meal on the table in no time, and the flavors are impressive enough to make it a dish everyone will rave about.
Customizable
This recipe is incredibly flexible. If you want to make it gluten-free, you can substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour. If you prefer a lighter version, you can bake the chicken tenders instead of frying them. Simply place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spray them lightly with olive oil, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
You can also adjust the flavor profile by adding different herbs or spices. If you like a little heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes into the garlic butter sauce, or even add some Parmesan to the breadcrumbs for an extra cheesy bite.
Perfect for Guests
These Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders are great for entertaining. Serve them as an appetizer for your next party, or pair them with a side of crispy fries and a refreshing salad for a full meal. They’re sure to be a hit at any gathering, and the best part is that they’re easy to prepare in large quantities, making them perfect for serving guests. Whether it’s a family dinner or a more formal event, these tenders will be a crowd-pleaser!
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Can I bake the chicken tenders instead of frying them?
Yes, you can absolutely bake the chicken tenders instead of frying them. To bake them, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the breaded chicken tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Lightly spray the tenders with olive oil and bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
While it’s best to serve these chicken tenders immediately for maximum crispiness, you can prepare the chicken and breading in advance. Simply coat the chicken tenders and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook. When ready to serve, just fry or bake the chicken tenders and drizzle with the lemon garlic butter sauce.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again.
Can I use frozen chicken tenders?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken tenders, but make sure to cook them according to the package instructions before coating them with the lemon garlic sauce. Homemade breading will also work on frozen tenders if you thaw them beforehand.
What can I serve with these chicken tenders?
These chicken tenders pair wonderfully with a variety of side dishes, such as a simple salad, roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a side of pasta. You could even serve them with a dipping sauce like ranch, blue cheese, or honey mustard.