Name: Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders Recipe: Crispy, Juicy, and Full of Flavor
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Chicken tenders (1 lb / 450g): Juicy base for the dish.; Parmesan cheese (½ cup / 50g, finely grated): Adds cheesy goodness. 🧀; Panko breadcrumbs (1 cup / 100g): Provides the perfect crunch. 🥖; Garlic cloves (3, minced): Infuses the tenders with aromatic flavor. 🧄; Lemon zest (1 tsp): Adds a bright and tangy kick. 🍋; Eggs (2, beaten): Helps the breading stick. 🥚; All-purpose flour (½ cup / 60g): Essential for dredging. 🌾; Salt and pepper: To taste. 🧂; Olive oil (2 tbsp): For frying or greasing. 🫒; Optional spices: Paprika or Italian seasoning (1 tsp): For added flavor. 🌶

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When it comes to quick, easy, and delicious meals, Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders are a winner. These chicken tenders are packed with bold flavors, a crispy coating, and juicy interiors, making them perfect for weeknight dinners or a special gathering. Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters or food enthusiasts, this recipe is bound to impress. Let’s dive into everything you need to make the perfect chicken tenders!

Crispy chicken tenders, Parmesan chicken recipe

Ingredients Breakdown

Essential Components

To make this mouthwatering dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Chicken tenders: 1 lb (450g), trimmed
Parmesan cheese: ½ cup (50g), finely grated
Panko breadcrumbs: 1 cup (100g), for a crispier texture
Garlic cloves: 3, minced
Lemon zest: 1 teaspoon, freshly grated
Eggs: 2, beaten
All-purpose flour: ½ cup (60g), for dredging
Salt and pepper: To taste
Olive oil: 2 tablespoons, for pan-frying or greasing the baking sheet
Optional spices: Paprika or Italian seasoning, 1 teaspoon for added flavor

Step-by-Step Preparation Guide

1. Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, combine minced garlic, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Add the chicken tenders and mix well to coat them evenly. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the chicken marinate in the fridge for 20-30 minutes. This step enhances the flavor and ensures tender, juicy chicken.

2. Set Up the Breading Station

Prepare three shallow dishes:

Dish 1: Place the all-purpose flour.
Dish 2: Beat the eggs until smooth.
Dish 3: Mix the Parmesan cheese, Panko breadcrumbs, and optional spices.

3. Bread the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the marinade. Dredge each tender in flour, dip it into the beaten eggs, and then coat it with the breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture. Press lightly to ensure the coating adheres well.

4. Cook to Perfection

Pan-Frying: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the tenders for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C).
Oven-Baking: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the breaded tenders on a greased baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Cooking Techniques

Oven-Baking vs. Pan-Frying

Oven-Baking: A healthier option that requires less oil, while still achieving a crispy texture.
Pan-Frying: Adds a golden, crunchy exterior with a richer flavor, perfect for indulgent meals.

Tips for Juicy Chicken

Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking.
Marinate the chicken for at least 20 minutes to enhance tenderness.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders with these sides for a complete meal:

Creamy mashed potatoes
Steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans
Freshly tossed Caesar salad
Garlic butter rice or couscous

For dipping sauces, consider honey mustard, ranch, or a tangy lemon aioli.

Variations and Substitutions

Gluten-Free: Use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Dairy-Free: Replace Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast.
Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the breadcrumb mixture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Skipping the marinade: This step is crucial for flavorful and tender chicken.
Overcrowding the pan: Cook in batches to avoid steaming the chicken, which prevents crispiness.
Not flipping halfway: Ensures even cooking, especially when baking.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Storage: Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes to retain crispiness.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Tenders?

Absolutely! Slice chicken breasts into strips to mimic tenders.

How Long Should I Marinate the Chicken?

Marinate for at least 20 minutes. For deeper flavor, marinate up to 2 hours.

Conclusion and Call to Action

These Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders are a crowd-pleaser that combines bold flavors, a crispy coating, and juicy interiors. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe is easy to follow and incredibly versatile. Try it today, and don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family. Subscribe to our blog for more delicious recipes!