Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders
Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders are a delightful blend of savory and tangy flavors, wrapped in a crispy coating that kids and adults alike can’t resist. I first stumbled upon this recipe during a busy weeknight when I needed a quick meal that could easily please the whole family. These tenders are not only simple to make but also versatile enough to serve at any gathering, whether it’s a casual dinner or a holiday feast. The bright lemon flavor combined with the savory Parmesan and garlic gives these chicken tenders an extraordinary taste that’s far from ordinary.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
If you’re on the lookout for a recipe that makes dinnertime enjoyable, look no further. This dish is quick and easy to prepare, making it a stellar option for weeknight dinners or family brunches. It can be on the table in under 30 minutes, leaving you more time to spend with your loved ones. Plus, it’s a budget-friendly meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor, appealing to even the pickiest of eaters.
"These chicken tenders were a hit at our family dinner! The lemony flavor combined with the crispy texture made them irresistible. I’m definitely making these again!" – Jessica R.
Preparing Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders
Making Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders is a straightforward process steeped in delightful flavor. Here’s what you can expect:
- Begin by preheating your oven if you prefer baking.
- Combine the dry ingredients for a crispy coating.
- Prepare the chicken tenders, ensuring they’re adequately coated.
- Choose between frying for a crispy exterior or baking for a healthier option.
- Enjoy them fresh, either as a main dish or incorporated into salads!
What You’ll Need
To craft these delicious tenders, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 pound chicken tenders
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 2 eggs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying (or use cooking spray for baking)
You can easily swap chicken tenders for chicken breasts, ensuring you adjust the cooking time accordingly. For a gluten-free version, try using gluten-free breadcrumbs!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Let’s dive into how you can whip up these chicken tenders:
- Preheat the Oven: Set it to 400°F (200°C) if you choose to bake.
- Mix the Coating: In a bowl, blend the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
- Beat the Eggs: In another bowl, whisk the eggs until well combined.
- Coat the Chicken: Dip each chicken tender in the beaten eggs, making sure it’s fully covered, then roll it in the breadcrumb mixture until well-coated.
- Fry or Bake: For frying, heat oil in a pan over medium heat and cook the tenders until golden. If baking, line a baking sheet with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden and cooked through.
- Serve Enjoyably: Pair with your favorite dipping sauce or toss them on a fresh salad for an added crunch.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
These chicken tenders are incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. You can plate them alongside roasted vegetables, serve them with a light dip like ranch or honey mustard, or even toss them into a salad for a hearty meal. Feel free to experiment with different sides like mashed potatoes or a crisp coleslaw—whatever suits your mood!
Keeping Leftovers Fresh
To store your leftover chicken tenders, let them cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be refrigerated for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, you can reheat them in the oven to retain their crispiness.
Extra Advice for Success
Here are some tips to ensure your chicken tenders come out perfectly:
- Marinate the Chicken: If time permits, marinating the chicken in lemon juice for about 30 minutes can elevate the flavor.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and lemon zest provide an incredible aroma and taste compared to their dried counterparts.
- Mind the Temperature: Ensure the oil is hot before frying—test with a breadcrumb; it should sizzle upon contact.
Creative Twists
Want to shake things up? Here are a few variations to try:
- Herb-Infused Coating: Add chopped fresh herbs, like parsley or thyme, to the breadcrumb mixture for an aromatic boost.
- Spicy Kick: Mix in some cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to your breadcrumbs for a spicy version.
- Cheesy Upgrade: Swap some of the Parmesan cheese for shredded mozzarella or add additional types of cheese to the coating for a cheesy explosion.
Your Questions Answered
What’s the prep time for this recipe?
The prep time is approximately 15 minutes, with a cooking time of 20-25 minutes, so you can have a meal ready in under 40 minutes!
Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?
Absolutely! Just ensure to adjust the cooking time, as bigger pieces will require longer cooking.
How can I safely reheat leftovers?
Reheat leftovers in an oven at 350°F (175°C) until sufficiently warmed through. This will help maintain the crispy texture.
Feel free to experiment with this recipe, and enjoy the delicious simplicity of Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders at your next family meal!
Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken tenders Can substitute for chicken breasts, adjust cooking time accordingly.
- 1 cup breadcrumbs Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese Freshly grated for the best flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic Minced.
- 1 whole lemon Zested and juiced.
- 2 whole eggs Beaten.
- to taste Salt
- to taste Pepper
- Oil for frying Oil for frying or cooking spray for baking Use as necessary.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) if you choose to bake.
- In a bowl, blend the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
- In another bowl, whisk the eggs until well combined.
- Dip each chicken tender in the beaten eggs, ensuring it’s fully covered, then roll it in the breadcrumb mixture until well-coated.
Cooking
- For frying, heat oil in a pan over medium heat and cook the tenders until golden.
- If baking, line a baking sheet with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden and cooked through.
Serving
- Pair with your favorite dipping sauce or toss them on a fresh salad for an added crunch.
