If you’re craving something a little punchy, incredibly crispy, and soul-satisfyingly savory, look no further than these LEMON GARLIC PARMESAN CHICKEN TENDERS. This dish brings all the comfort of classic chicken tenders and kicks it up with bursts of fresh citrus, bold garlic, and heaps of creamy Parmesan. Whether you’re serving them as a crowd-pleasing appetizer, a quick weeknight main, or popping them into a wrap for a flavorful lunch, you’ll love how the zingy lemon and cheesy crunch make every bite sing.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in these LEMON GARLIC PARMESAN CHICKEN TENDERS works hard for its spot. Simple, yes, but they each bring something palpable to the party—moisture, texture, brightness, or downright crave-worthy flavor.
- Chicken breasts: Select boneless, skinless chicken breasts for tenders that are juicy and easy to slice into perfect strips.
- Fresh garlic: Mincing fresh garlic infuses the chicken and crumb coating with that unbeatable garlicky kick.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Go for real Parmesan if you can—its nutty-salty hit helps the crust turn golden and flavorful.
- Freshly squeezed lemon juice: Lemon juice brightens and tenderizes the chicken while adding zesty sparkle to each bite.
- Panko breadcrumbs: These Japanese-style breadcrumbs create an airy, shatteringly crisp coating that clings perfectly to the tenders.
- Salt and pepper: A generous seasoning ensures every layer bursts with savory goodness and balances the acidity from the lemon.
- Nonstick cooking spray: Ensures your tenders bake up evenly golden without sticking—no messy pans or lost bits.
How to Make LEMON GARLIC PARMESAN CHICKEN TENDERS
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C), the magic temperature for getting those chicken tenders golden and crispy. While the oven heats, grab a baking dish and give it a good mist with nonstick cooking spray so your tenders lift right off after baking.
Step 2: Slice and Season the Chicken
Slice your chicken breasts into even, tender-sized strips for uniform cooking and great presentation. Season them generously with salt and pepper—don’t be shy, as this is your main chance to get that seasoning right into the meat.
Step 3: Prepare the Flavored Crumb Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, and another pinch of salt. This trio of crunchy, cheesy, and aromatic goodness is key to building crave-worthy crust.
Step 4: Drizzle and Dredge
Drizzle those seasoned chicken strips with freshly squeezed lemon juice. The lemon not only amps up the flavor but helps the crumb stick. Now coat each strip in the breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture, pressing lightly to ensure every inch is covered in that irresistible, garlicky crunch.
Step 5: Bake to Crispy Perfection
Arrange your coated chicken tenders in a single layer in the prepared baking dish. Slip them into the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until they’re golden and crisp on the outside and cooked through inside. Finish with a final drizzle of lemon juice right before serving to pump up the freshness.
How to Serve LEMON GARLIC PARMESAN CHICKEN TENDERS
Garnishes
For the perfect finishing touch, sprinkle a little extra grated Parmesan and a scatter of chopped fresh parsley over your LEMON GARLIC PARMESAN CHICKEN TENDERS. A few thin lemon wedges add color and make it easy to squeeze one last hit of citrus at the table.
Side Dishes
These tenders shine next to a crisp green salad, garlic roasted potatoes, or a heap of buttered rice. If you want to keep things fresh, serve with a vibrant Greek salad or a tangle of lemony spaghetti. For bigger gatherings, a platter with tangy dipping sauces or honey mustard turns them into a dippable delight.
Creative Ways to Present
Try tucking your tenders into warm pita or a wrap with a swipe of tzatziki and crunchy lettuce for a Mediterranean-inspired lunch. For party bites, skewer the tenders and serve with flavored aioli. You can even slice them atop a Caesar salad for an extra flavor punch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, tuck the cooled tenders into an airtight container. They’ll keep well in the fridge for up to three days, making them a stellar grab-and-go protein for salads and sandwiches.
Freezing
Want to get ahead? Allow the tenders to cool completely, then lay them out on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer them to a zip-top bag, and they’ll be ready and waiting in the freezer for up to two months. Perfect for last-minute meals!
Reheating
For best texture, reheat your LEMON GARLIC PARMESAN CHICKEN TENDERS in the oven or air fryer at 350°F until hot and crispy again—usually about 10 minutes. Avoid the microwave if you can, as it tends to soften the crust.
FAQs
Can I use chicken tenders instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken tenders work just as well and require no slicing—simply season and follow the rest of the instructions as written.
Is there a gluten-free option for the breadcrumbs?
Yes, just swap the panko for your favorite gluten-free breadcrumbs; you’ll get the same crispy effect without the wheat.
What dipping sauces pair well with LEMON GARLIC PARMESAN CHICKEN TENDERS?
Classic ranch, honey mustard, or even a tangy marinara all work beautifully. A garlic aioli or simple lemon-yogurt dip would be heavenly, too.
Can I make these tenders in an air fryer?
Definitely! Just arrange the coated tenders in a single layer in your air fryer basket and cook at 400°F for about 12-14 minutes, flipping halfway through. They come out extra crisp!
How can I make these tenders spicier?
If you like some heat, stir a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika into the breadcrumb mixture, or serve them with a side of spicy Sriracha mayo.
Final Thoughts
However you choose to serve or share them, these LEMON GARLIC PARMESAN CHICKEN TENDERS are destined to become a staple in your kitchen. Give them a try and let that zesty, cheesy crunch win over your table—one golden bite at a time!
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LEMON GARLIC PARMESAN CHICKEN TENDERS Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders are a delightful twist on traditional chicken tenders, featuring a flavorful coating of garlic, Parmesan cheese, and zesty lemon juice. These crispy tenders are a perfect balance of crunchy and juicy, making them a crowd-pleasing dish for any occasion.
Ingredients
Chicken Tenders:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Coating:
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
Others:
- Nonstick cooking spray
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and coat a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- Prepare Chicken: Cut chicken breasts into tender-sized strips, season with salt and pepper.
- Mix Coating: In a bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt.
- Coat Chicken: Drizzle lemon juice over seasoned chicken strips, coat them in the breadcrumb mixture.
- Bake: Arrange coated chicken on the baking dish, bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and cooked through.
- Finish: Drizzle with more lemon juice before serving.
Notes
- For added flavor, you can sprinkle some extra Parmesan cheese on top before serving.
- These tenders pair well with a side of mixed greens or a refreshing cucumber salad.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tender (100g)
- Calories: 260
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
