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
Scale
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.
