If you’re searching for a dish that delivers zesty brightness, savory depth, and a satisfyingly crispy bite, look no further than this Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders Recipe. It’s a delightful twist on a classic favorite that brings together the tang of fresh lemon, the rich aroma of garlic, and the nutty goodness of Parmesan, all wrapped around tender, juicy chicken strips. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive meal when friends come over, these chicken tenders are bursting with flavor and texture that keeps everyone coming back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps things deliciously simple with ingredients that are easy to find and essential for building those bold flavors and that perfect crispy coating. Each component plays a crucial role, from the tangy lemon juice that wakes up the palate to the crunchy panko crumbs giving that golden finish.
- Chicken breasts: Use boneless, skinless for tender, juicy strips that cook evenly.
- Fresh garlic: Minced to infuse every bite with aromatic, savory warmth.
- Lemon juice: Adds a bright, zesty punch that balances the richness.
- Parmesan cheese: Grated finely to provide a flavorful, salty crust.
- Panko breadcrumbs: Light and airy crumbs that create a crispy, crunchy texture.
- Extra virgin olive oil: Drizzled to help brown the tenders and keep them moist.
- Salt and pepper: To season and enhance all the flavors perfectly.
How to Make Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Preheat
Get your oven warmed up to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This simple prep keeps your tenders from sticking and helps them bake up evenly golden and crisp.
Step 2: Cut the Chicken
Slice your chicken breasts into strips about one inch wide. This ensures they cook quickly and uniformly, making every bite juicy and tender.
Step 3: Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, mix salt, pepper, and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Toss the chicken strips in this tangy seasoning mix to coat well. This step infuses lemony brightness and seasoning right into the meat.
Step 4: Prepare the Coating
Combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and minced fresh garlic in a separate bowl. This blend creates the signature crispy, flavorful crust that defines the Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders Recipe.
Step 5: Coat the Chicken
Dip each lemon-marinated chicken strip into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to help the coating stick. Make sure every piece is fully covered for that perfect crunch after baking.
Step 6: Arrange and Drizzle
Arrange the coated tenders on your prepared baking sheet. Drizzle lightly with extra virgin olive oil; this encourages browning and adds a subtle richness that elevates the finished dish.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 15 to 20 minutes until the tenders turn golden brown and the chicken is cooked through. The aromas of garlic and Parmesan wafting through the kitchen will have you ready to dig in immediately.
How to Serve Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley or a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese on top brightens the presentation and adds a fresh, inviting touch. A few thin lemon wedges on the side invite diners to squeeze on extra zestiness if desired.
Side Dishes
These chicken tenders pair beautifully with a light mixed green salad, roasted vegetables, or creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting, balanced meal. For a fun twist, serve with a side of garlic aioli or your favorite dipping sauce to complement the Parmesan crust.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn these tenders into sliders with soft buns and crisp lettuce, or serve them atop warm pasta tossed with olive oil and herbs. For a casual snack, stack on a platter with toothpicks for easy sharing at parties or game day gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover tenders in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. Storing them properly keeps the chicken moist while maintaining some of that crunchy texture.
Freezing
If you want to extend their shelf life, freeze the cooked and cooled tenders in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to a month. This method prevents them from sticking together and preserves flavor and texture.
Reheating
Reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through and crisp. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the coating crunchy, as that can make it soggy.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs will add a bit more moisture and richness to your tenders, though they may need slightly longer cooking time depending on thickness.
Is it possible to bake these tenders without oil?
You can skip the olive oil drizzle, but the tenders might not brown as deeply or get as crispy. For best texture, a light drizzle is recommended.
Can I prepare this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply swap the panko breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free cereal. The flavor and crunch remain wonderful.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture or sprinkle some cayenne pepper along with the salt and pepper for a nice, spicy kick.
What dipping sauces go well with this dish?
Classic ranch, honey mustard, garlic aioli, or even a tangy marinara are fantastic accompaniments that complement the lemon garlic Parmesan flavors beautifully.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you give this Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders Recipe a try soon because it’s one of those dishes that’s both simple and spectacular. The vibrant flavors and irresistible crunch make it a weeknight winner and a party pleaser alike. Trust me, once you taste these, they’ll become a fast favorite in your cooking arsenal.
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Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
These Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders are a flavorful and crispy oven-baked dish featuring tender chicken strips marinated in fresh lemon juice and garlic, coated with a crunchy Parmesan and panko breadcrumb mixture, then baked to golden perfection. Perfect for a quick dinner or snack, they combine zesty, cheesy, and savory flavors in every bite.
Ingredients
Chicken and Marinade
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Breading
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
Finishing
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and aid in even baking.
- Prepare chicken strips: Cut the chicken breasts into strips about one inch wide for uniform cooking and easier breading.
- Marinate chicken: In a bowl, mix salt, pepper, and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Toss the chicken strips thoroughly to coat, infusing them with bright citrus flavor and seasoning.
- Prepare breadcrumb mixture: In another bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and minced garlic to create a flavorful, crispy coating.
- Coat chicken strips: Dip each marinated chicken strip into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring it’s fully and evenly coated with the Parmesan-garlic crust.
- Arrange and drizzle: Place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet and drizzle them lightly with extra virgin olive oil to promote crispness during baking.
- Bake: Bake the chicken tenders in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes until they are golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Notes
- For extra crispiness, flip the tenders halfway through baking and drizzle a little more olive oil if desired.
- You can substitute the chicken breasts with chicken tenders if preferred.
- Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven to maintain crispiness.
