Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders Recipe

Introduction

Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders are a zesty and flavorful twist on a classic favorite. Crispy on the outside and tender inside, these chicken tenders are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a tasty appetizer.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound)
• 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Nonstick cooking spray

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking dish by spraying it with nonstick cooking spray.
2. Step 2: Slice the chicken breasts into tender-sized strips and season them generously with salt and pepper.
3. Step 3: In a bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt.
4. Step 4: Drizzle the lemon juice over the seasoned chicken strips, then coat each piece thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture.
5. Step 5: Arrange the coated chicken strips on the prepared baking dish in a single layer.
6. Step 6: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
7. Step 7: Drizzle with additional lemon juice before serving for an extra burst of flavor.

Tips & Variations

• For extra crispiness, lightly spray the coated chicken strips with nonstick cooking spray before baking.
• Swap out Parmesan for Pecorino Romano for a sharper cheese flavor.
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for a subtle spicy kick.
• Serve with a side of garlic aioli or ranch dressing for dipping.

Storage

Store leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes to maintain crispiness. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs work well and will provide a juicier, slightly more flavorful tender. Adjust cooking time slightly if needed.

Can I prepare these chicken tenders ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can coat the chicken tenders and store them in the refrigerator for up to 4 hours before baking. For longer storage, freeze them raw in a single layer and bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 76 reviews

This Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders recipe offers a deliciously crispy and zesty meal made with tender chicken strips coated in a flavorful blend of Parmesan cheese, garlic, and lemon. Baked to golden perfection, these chicken tenders are a perfect balance of tangy and savory, ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying appetizer.

• Author: Maya
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
• Total Time: 30-35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Low Fat

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice

Breading Mixture

• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
• A pinch of salt

Other

• Nonstick cooking spray

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking dish by spraying it evenly with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
2. Prepare Chicken: Slice the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into tender-sized strips for even cooking and season generously on all sides with salt and pepper to enhance flavor.
3. Make Breading Mixture: In a bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt. Mix thoroughly to evenly distribute the ingredients.
4. Coat Chicken: Drizzle the lemon juice over the seasoned chicken strips, then coat each piece thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere the mixture well.
5. Bake: Arrange the coated chicken strips in a single layer on the prepared baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Serve: Remove the chicken tenders from the oven and drizzle with additional lemon juice before serving to add a fresh, zesty finish.

Notes

• For extra crispiness, you can broil the chicken tenders for the last 2 minutes of baking, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and texture.
• These chicken tenders can be served with a side of salad, steamed vegetables, or your favorite dipping sauce.
• To make the recipe gluten-free, substitute panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs.

Keywords: lemon garlic chicken, parmesan chicken tenders, baked chicken tenders, panko chicken, easy chicken recipe, healthy chicken tenders