Name: Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 lb Chicken tenders; 0.5 cup All-purpose flour; 1 tsp Garlic powder; 1 tsp Lemon zest; 0.5 cup Parmesan cheese (grated); 1 egg Egg; 0.25 cup Milk; 2 tbsp Olive oil; 1 tbsp Lemon juice

Okay, friends, let’s talk chicken. Specifically, let’s talk about the easiest, most flavorful chicken tenders you will EVER make. I’m talking about Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders., so good, that even my pickiest eater begs for them. If you love crispy chicken piccata but are short on time, then these are about to become your new weeknight staple. These are like the chicken tender version of chicken piccata – all the lemony, garlicky, cheesy goodness, but in a fraction of the time and a whole lot less fuss. I promise, after trying these, you’ll never want plain old chicken tenders again.

What is Parmesan Chicken Tenders?

Think of these as leveled-up chicken tenders. They’re essentially strips of chicken breast coated in a flavorful breadcrumb mixture, featuring the holy trinity: lemon, garlic, and parmesan cheese. The lemon brightens everything up, the garlic adds that pungent kick we all love, and the parmesan…well, parmesan makes everything better, doesn’t it? It’s essentially taking all the delicious flavors of a classic chicken dish and simplifying it into something that’s quick, easy, and perfect for a busy weeknight. It’s also super kid-friendly, because who doesn’t love a good chicken tender? It’s a comforting dish made extraordinary with a few simple additions.

Why you’ll love this recipe?

What are some good reasons to love a girl?Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders – Lemon TWhat are some of my favorite songs?Flavor Bomb: The combination of lemon, garlic, and parmesan is truly magical. It’s savory, tangy, and oh-so-satisfying. Each bite is bursting with flavor, making it hard to stop at just one tender.
• Ridiculously EasyWhat are some of the best weeknight meals you’ve ever had? When you just don’t have the energy for a complicated meal. Is it foolproof?Budget FriendlyChicken tenders are generally inexpensive, and the other ingredients are pantry staples that you can easily find. What do you have on hand? Does dinner have to break the bank?Super Versatile:These tenders are delicious on their own as a snack, but can also be served with pasta, salad, or both. Is it healthy to eat a sandwich or wrap? What are the possibilities? What I love about this recipe is how quickly it comes together. I want a satisfying meal but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. I like to eat it every day. It’s become my go-to meal. I tested this with different types of parmesan once – the freshly grated kind definitely makes a good taste. I find these even more appealing than your standard fried chicken tenders because they are lighter. How do you get all the satisfaction of something crispy and savory, without feeling weighed down.

How do I make Parmesan Chicken Tenders with Lemon Garlic?

Quick Overview

Making these Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders Served With SeasonHow do I make breadcrumbs for chicken? What are some ways to dip a chicken in egg wash, dredge it in breadcrumbs, and bake (or pan fry)? I’ll give you both options) until golden brown and crispy. What’s the best way to end When baking or frying, the key is not to overcrowd the pan, to ensure even cooking and maximum heat. Don’t skip the lemon zest in breadcrumbs, it makes a huge difference!

Ingredients

For the Chicken:
• 1.5 lbs Chicken Tenders: Look for ones that are uniform in size for even cooking. Can you cut chicken breasts into strips? What is the best way to keep breadcrumbs from sticking to chicken? What is the best way to use Dijon Mustard in egg wash? Adds a subtle tang and flavor depth.For Breadcrumb Coating:
• 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs: PanKo is key for that extra crispy texture. Don’t substitute for regular breadcrumbs. • 12 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese: 1 cup shredded cheese. Freshly grated is always the best! It melts beautifully and adds so much flavor. • 2 cloves Garlic, minced: Don’t skimp on the garlic! It’s a flavor powerhouse. • 2 tbsp lemon zest: This brightens up the whole dish. Make sure to zest before juicing the lemon. • 1 tsp Dried Italian Herbs: Adds a lovely herbaceous note. What are some good ways to add black pepper to a dish? For extra garlic flavor, add a pinch of salt and pepper.For Serving (Optional):
• Lemon wedges: For squeezing over the cooked tenders.
• Fresh parsley, chopped: For garnish.

What are the steps to

Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking. If you’re pan-frying, heat a couple tablespoons of olive oil in tin over medium heat.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, minced garlic, lemon zest, Italian herbs, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Mix well to ensure everything is evenly distributed. This is where the magic happens – all those flavors mingling together!

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, milk, and Dijon mustard. Set aside. How do I make a smooth and flavorful egg wash that will help the breadcrumbs adhere to the chicken?

Step 4: Coat the Chicken

How do you dip chicken tenders in egg wash? Then, dredge it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure that it sticks. Place the coated chicken tender on the prepared baking sheet or in the hot skillet. Cook for 5 minutes. Remove from heat.

Step 5: Bake (or Fry!)

If baking, bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the breadcrumbs are browned. Golden brown and crispy. If pan-frying, cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. I usually flip them once they’re nicely browned on the bottom.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Let the chicken tenders rest for a couple of minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chicken. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges.

What is the best way to serve it?

These Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders. Lemon-GarCan be served with a variety of side dishes.What is a quick and easy weeknight dinner?Serve with pasta tossed in a simple olive oil and garlic sauce, or with fresh greens. A side of roasted asparagus would also be delicious.For a Kid-Friendly Meal:Pair them with a side like mac and cheese, french fries, or steamed broccoli. My kids love them with ketchup and ranch dressing.For a More Elegant Meal:Serve with risotto or polenta, and a side of roasted vegetables. What are the best ways to enjoy a glass of white wine?For a Casual Snack:What are some good appetizers to serve as a party snack? Serve with a variety of dipping sauces like marinara, honey mustard, or garlic.

Top Tips for Perfecting Your Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders

Chicken Prep: Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels before coating them. This helps the breadcrumbs adhere better and ensures a crispier final product.
Breadcrumb Coating: Don’t be afraid to really press the breadcrumbs into the chicken. The more breadcrumbs that stick, the crispier the tenders will be.
Cooking Method: Both baking and pan-frying work well for this recipe, but pan-frying will give you a slightly crispier result. If baking, consider broiling the tenders for the last minute or two to get them extra golden brown.
Lemon Zest: Don’t skip the lemon zest! It adds a crucial element of brightness and flavor that really elevates the dish. Make sure to zest the lemon before juicing it, as it’s much easier to do that way.
Parmesan Cheese: Use freshly grated parmesan cheese for the best flavor and melting quality. Pre-shredded parmesan often contains cellulose, which can prevent it from melting properly.
Don’t Overcrowd: Whether you’re baking or frying, make sure not to overcrowd the pan. This will lower the temperature and prevent the chicken from browning properly. Cook in batches if necessary. I learned this the hard way – the first time I made these, I crammed everything onto one pan, and the chicken ended up steaming instead of crisping!
Ingredient Swaps: If you don’t have panko breadcrumbs, regular breadcrumbs can be used in a pinch, but they won’t be quite as crispy. You can also substitute the Italian herbs with other dried herbs like oregano, thyme, or rosemary. If you don’t have parmesan, Pecorino Romano would also work well.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Room Temperature: Cooked Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders should not be left at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
Refrigerator Storage: Store the cooked chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked chicken tenders. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 30 minutes, or until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating: To reheat refrigerated chicken tenders, bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat them in a skillet over medium heat, or in the microwave (although they may not be as crispy). To reheat frozen chicken tenders, bake them directly from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply substitute the panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free panko breadcrumbs. You can find these at most grocery stores or online. Make sure to check the labels of all other ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free as well.

Can I use dried lemon zest instead of fresh?

While fresh lemon zest is always preferred for its bright flavor and aroma, you can use dried lemon zest in a pinch. Use about 1 teaspoon of dried zest for every 1 tablespoon of fresh zest. Keep in mind that the flavor will be slightly less intense.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?

Yes, you can definitely use chicken breasts! Simply cut them into strips that are about the same size and thickness as chicken tenders. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly, depending on the thickness of the strips.

Can I air fry these?

Yes, you can! Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the coated chicken tenders in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd. Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, or until the chicken is cooked through and the breadcrumbs are golden brown and crispy.

What dipping sauces go well with these?

These Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders are delicious on their own, but they also pair well with a variety of dipping sauces. Some of my favorites include marinara sauce, honey mustard, garlic aioli, ranch dressing, and lemon-herb mayo.

Final Thoughts

These Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders are a total winner in my book! They’re quick, easy, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a kid-friendly meal, or a delicious appetizer, these tenders are sure to please. If you love this recipe, you might also enjoy my Baked Parmesan Chicken or my Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken. I just know you’ll love them! Let me know in the comments how yours turn out, and if you made any fun customizations. Happy cooking!

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