Craving a quick, flavorful, and easy weeknight dinner? Look no further! These lemon-garlic-parmesan chicken tenders are unbelievably delicious, perfectly crispy, and ready in under 30 minutes. We’re talking juicy, tender chicken coated in a tangy, cheesy, and garlicky crust that will have everyone asking for seconds. Forget boring chicken, this is a flavor explosion in every bite!
Why You’ll Love These Lemon-Garlic-Parmesan Chicken Tenders
These aren’t your average chicken tenders. They’re bursting with bright, savory flavors and offer a delightful textural contrast. Here’s why they’ll become a family favorite:
- Quick and Easy: From prep to plate, this dish is ready in under 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights!
- Flavorful: The combination of lemon, garlic, and parmesan creates a taste sensation that’s both zesty and savory.
- Kid-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love the crispy texture and delicious flavor.
- Versatile: Serve them as a main course, appetizer, or even in salads and wraps.
Making the Best Lemon-Garlic-Parmesan Chicken Tenders: A Step-by-Step Guide
Ready to get cooking? Follow these simple steps to create the most amazing lemon-garlic-parmesan chicken tenders.
Preparing the Chicken
Start with high-quality chicken tenders. Fresh is best, but frozen (thawed completely) works too. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. This helps the coating adhere better and ensures a crispier result. Lightly season the chicken tenders with salt and pepper.
Creating the Flavorful Coating
This is where the magic happens! In a shallow dish, combine:
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (for extra crispiness!)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Mix all the ingredients together thoroughly. The lemon zest and juice add a bright, fresh flavor that perfectly complements the garlic and parmesan.
Coating the Chicken
Now, it’s time to coat the chicken! Dredge each chicken tender in the parmesan mixture, pressing firmly to ensure the coating adheres well. Make sure the chicken is completely covered on all sides.
Cooking the Chicken Tenders
You have a few options for cooking these delicious chicken tenders:
- Baking: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the coated chicken tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden brown.
- Pan-Frying: Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken tenders for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan!
- Air Frying: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the chicken tenders in the air fryer basket in a single layer (you may need to cook in batches). Air fry for 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
Baking is a healthier option, while pan-frying delivers the crispiest results. Air frying is a great compromise between the two.
Serving Suggestions
These chicken tenders are incredibly versatile! Here are a few serving ideas:
- Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce, such as marinara, ranch, or honey mustard.
- Add them to a salad for a protein-packed meal.
- Use them as a filling for wraps or sandwiches.
- Serve them alongside roasted vegetables or a simple side salad.
Tips for Perfect Lemon-Garlic-Parmesan Chicken Tenders
Want to make sure your chicken tenders are perfect every time? Here are a few extra tips:
- Don’t Overcook: Overcooked chicken tenders will be dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lemon zest and juice will give the best flavor.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If pan-frying, avoid overcrowding the pan, as this will lower the temperature of the oil and prevent the chicken from browning properly.
- Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add other spices to the coating, such as paprika, garlic powder, or onion powder.
Enjoy Your Delicious Lemon-Garlic-Parmesan Chicken Tenders!
These lemon-garlic-parmesan chicken tenders are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! They’re quick, easy, and bursting with flavor. Whether you bake them, pan-fry them, or air fry them, you’re sure to love this recipe. So, gather your ingredients and get cooking! You’ll have a delicious and satisfying meal on the table in no time. Don’t forget to share your creations and tag us in your photos! Bon appétit!
