Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders are like a warm hug for your taste buds, bursting with zesty flavors that dance on your palate. Imagine tender chicken, coated in a crunchy, golden layer of lemony goodness, infused with garlic and kissed by the nutty aroma of parmesan. Just thinking about it makes my mouth water!
This dish has a little something for everyone—perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings. I remember the first time I made these tenders; I was trying to impress my friends during a casual dinner party. Spoiler alert: they were impressed, and I was dubbed the “chicken whisperer” ever since!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders are quick to make, taking less than 30 minutes from start to finish
- Their flavor profile is a delightful balance of tangy lemon and savory garlic
- Visually, they are golden and crispy, making them irresistible on any plate
- Serve them as an appetizer or main dish, making them versatile for any occasion!
Ingredients for Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 2-3 chicken breasts, cut into strips for easy cooking and eating.
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Fresh Garlic: Opt for firm cloves; fresh garlic elevates the flavor beyond your wildest dreams.
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Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brings brightness that complements the chicken perfectly.
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Parmesan Cheese: Grated parmesan adds richness and a delightful crunch when baked.
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Panko Breadcrumbs: These Japanese-style breadcrumbs create a light and crispy coating—definitely not your average breadcrumb!
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Olive Oil: A drizzle helps everything stick together while adding healthy fats.
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Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance every ingredient’s natural flavor.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it heats up, grab a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper or simply spray it with some nonstick cooking spray.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Cut your boneless, skinless chicken breasts into strips. Aim for bite-sized pieces; nobody wants to wrestle with their food during dinner!
Step 3: Mix the Flavor Bomb
In a bowl, combine freshly squeezed lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and olive oil. This tangy mixture will marinate the chicken beautifully.
Step 4: Coat the Chicken
Mix panko breadcrumbs and grated parmesan in another bowl. Take each chicken strip from the marinade and coat it generously in this cheesy mixture, pressing it lightly so it sticks.
Step 5: Bake It Up
Place the coated chicken tenders evenly on your prepared baking sheet. Bake them in your preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until they are golden brown and fully cooked through.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Transfer those crispy tenders onto plates—and don’t forget to drizzle any leftover marinade over them for added flavor. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce or alongside fresh veggies for a complete meal!
And there you have it—a delightful plate of Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders that will have everyone asking for seconds! Enjoy these crispy wonders paired with a salad or on their own as a snack; they’re just too good to resist!
You Must Know
- This delicious Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders recipe is more than just mouthwatering; it simplifies dinner time
- Customize it based on your pantry staples, and watch the vibrant colors dazzle at your meal
- Ideal for oven-baking or air-frying, it’s a versatile crowd-pleaser
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve crispy perfection, start by marinating the chicken tenders in lemon juice and garlic. While they soak up all that flavor, prepare your breadcrumb mixture. Once the chicken is coated, bake them until golden brown for an irresistible finish.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the Parmesan with cheddar for a cheesier bite or toss in some Italian herbs for an extra flavor punch. You can even throw in spicy chili flakes if you’re feeling adventurous—heat things up a notch!
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For reheating, pop them back into the oven at 350°F until warm and crispy again. Avoid microwaving to maintain that crunch.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For tender chicken, always marinate for at least 30 minutes but no more than 4 hours to avoid mushiness
- Use fresh breadcrumbs for extra crunch and flavor
- Ensure your oven is preheated to achieve that perfect golden color without drying out the chicken
Sometimes, my friends rave about my cooking skills until they realize I’m just good at hiding store-bought shortcuts! These Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders are one of those glorious moments when I actually impress them with something homemade and delicious. For more inspiration, check out this delicious main dishes recipe.
FAQs:
What ingredients do I need for Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders?
To prepare Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders, you will need boneless, skinless chicken breasts, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, and spices like salt and pepper. Fresh parsley adds a nice touch as a garnish. Ensure your chicken is cut into even strips for uniform cooking. Gathering all these ingredients beforehand makes the cooking process more enjoyable and efficient.
How do I cook Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders?
Cooking Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders involves marinating the chicken in a mixture of lemon juice, garlic, and spices. After marinating, coat the tenders with a mixture of breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese before baking or frying them until golden brown. Baking usually takes about 20-25 minutes at 400°F (200°C) or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This method keeps them crispy on the outside while remaining juicy inside.
Can I make Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders ahead of time. Marinate the chicken and coat it with breadcrumbs and cheese. Then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. Alternatively, you can bake them in advance and reheat them in the oven at a low temperature when ready to serve. This makes it easy to enjoy a delicious meal any day of the week.
What sides pair well with Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders?
Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders pair wonderfully with various sides. Consider serving them with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or mashed potatoes for a balanced meal. You can also enjoy them with rice pilaf or pasta tossed in olive oil for added flavor. These sides enhance the dish’s brightness and complement its savory notes perfectly.
Conclusion for Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders:
In summary, Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders are an easy and flavorful dish that pleases everyone at the table. With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation methods, you can create a satisfying meal that shines with bright lemony flavors and rich Parmesan notes. Whether you’re serving them for dinner or as a tasty appetizer at your next gathering, these tenders are sure to impress your family and friends! Enjoy this delightful dish whenever you’re craving something both delicious and uncomplicated to make.
Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders are a delightful dish that perfectly balances zesty lemon, aromatic garlic, and rich parmesan cheese. These crispy, golden-brown tenders come together in just 30 minutes, making them an ideal choice for quick weeknight dinners or crowd-pleasing appetizers. Serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauce or alongside fresh veggies for a satisfying meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Ingredients
- 2–3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into strips)
- 4 cloves fresh garlic (minced)
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cut chicken breasts into strips for easy cooking.
- In a bowl, mix lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and olive oil. Marinate the chicken strips in this mixture for at least 30 minutes.
- Combine panko breadcrumbs and grated parmesan in another bowl.
- Coat each marinated chicken strip in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to adhere.
- Place coated chicken on the baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce or alongside fresh veggies.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tenders (120g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 19g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
