Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders are like the best friends you never knew you needed. Imagine biting into a tender piece of chicken, perfectly seasoned with zesty lemon, aromatic garlic, and a dusting of Parmesan cheese that makes everything better. creamy chicken mac and cheese zesty grilled asparagus The aroma wafts through your kitchen, promising a meal that will make your taste buds do a little happy dance.
Picture this: It’s a sunny Sunday afternoon, and you’ve decided to treat yourself and your family to something special. You whip up these chicken tenders, and suddenly everyone is gathered around the table, eyes sparkling with anticipation. As they dig in, laughter fills the air, and stories flow like the lemon juice you just squeezed. This dish isn’t just dinner; it’s an experience that brings loved ones together.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders are quick to prepare, making weeknight dinners a breeze
- The flavor bursts with tangy lemon and savory garlic
- They look irresistible, golden brown and crispy on the outside while tender inside
- Perfect for dipping or serving alongside your favorite sides, they’re versatile enough for any occasion
I once made these chicken tenders for my friend’s birthday party, and let’s just say they vanished faster than cake at a kid’s party!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless Chicken Tenders: Choose fresh or thawed chicken tenders for even cooking and juicy bites.
- Fresh Garlic: Use minced garlic for robust flavor; fresh cloves always bring out the best taste. For more inspiration, check out this garlic butter lobster tail recipe.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh Parmesan for maximum flavor richness; pre-shredded can’t compare!
- Olive Oil: A drizzle of high-quality olive oil enhances crispiness without overpowering flavors.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice elevates this dish with its bright acidity; bottled just won’t cut it!
- Panko Breadcrumbs: These create an irresistible crunchy texture compared to regular breadcrumbs; don’t skip them!
- Seasonings (Salt & Pepper): Simple yet essential; adjust according to taste preferences.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prep Your Kitchen: First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While that’s heating up, grab a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup later.
Prepare the Chicken Tenders: Rinse the chicken tenders under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps any excess moisture evaporate during cooking, ensuring crispy perfection.
Create Your Flavor Bomb Coating: In a bowl, mix together panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined. The mixture should look like a sandy beach, golden and inviting.
Dip It Good!: In another bowl, combine olive oil and fresh lemon juice. Dip each chicken tender into this mixture before coating it in the breadcrumb blend. chicken avocado salad Make sure they get all dressed up for the occasion!
Bake Until Golden Brown: Place those beautifully coated tenders on your prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for about 20-25 minutes until golden brown, don’t forget to flip them halfway through for even cooking!
Serve & Enjoy!: Once they’re out of the oven, golden brown and fragrant, let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Pair these delicious tenders with your favorite dipping sauce or sides like salad or veggies.
Now that you know how to make Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders that will wow your family and friends alike, get cooking! Enjoy every bite of that zesty goodness! garlic butter mushrooms.
You Must Know
- Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders are a game-changer for weeknight dinners
- They’re quick, flavorful, and loved by all ages
- The aroma of garlic and lemon fills your kitchen, making it feel like a gourmet meal without the fuss
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating the chicken tenders for at least 30 minutes. While they soak up flavor, preheat your oven to 400°F and prepare your baking sheet with parchment paper. For more inspiration, check out this Amish country casserole recipe.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the parmesan for pecorino cheese or add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for an extra flavor kick.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, bake at 350°F until warmed through to retain crispiness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Marinating longer enhances the flavor significantly, so consider overnight soaking if time allows
- Use freshly grated cheese for a stronger taste and better melting quality
- Ensure chicken is patted dry before coating to help the breading stick better
The first time I made Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders, my kids devoured them in seconds, leaving me wondering if I should have made more!
FAQ
Can I use frozen chicken tenders for this recipe?
Yes, just ensure they’re fully thawed and patted dry before marinating.
What sides pair well with Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders?
Serve them with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
Can I air fry these chicken tenders instead of baking?
Absolutely! Air fry at 380°F for about 12-15 minutes until golden and crispy.
Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders are a delightful blend of zesty lemon, aromatic garlic, and crispy Parmesan that transforms ordinary chicken into an extraordinary dish. Perfect for busy weeknights or special family gatherings, these tenders are easy to prepare and will have everyone asking for seconds. With a golden-brown crust and tender interior, they’re ideal for dipping or served alongside your favorite sides. Get ready to enjoy a meal that’s both flavorful and fun!
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless chicken tenders
- 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Rinse the chicken tenders under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
- In a bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
- In another bowl, mix olive oil and lemon juice. Dip each chicken tender in this mixture then coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
- Place coated tenders on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown, flipping halfway through.
- Let rest for a few minutes before serving with your favorite dipping sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 tenders (approximately 150g)
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 460mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: Marinate chicken tenders in olive oil and lemon juice for at least 30 minutes for enhanced flavor. Swap Parmesan with pecorino cheese or add fresh herbs like thyme for an extra flavor twist. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days; reheat at 350°F until warmed through.
