Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders

Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders are an irresistible dish that combines the tangy zest of lemon with savory garlic and rich Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a variety of occasions, these tenders can be served as a main dish, tossed in wraps, or enjoyed as appetizers that will impress your guests. The crunchy coating perfectly contrasts the juicy chicken inside, making each bite a delightful experience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe can be prepared in just 35 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Explosion: The zesty lemon and savory garlic elevate the classic chicken tender to a whole new level.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy these tenders on their own, in sandwiches, or as party appetizers.
• Healthier Alternative: Baking instead of frying keeps these tenders light and crispy without excess oil.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite herbs or switch up the protein for different flavors.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes preparing Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to get started.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking dish
• Mixing bowl
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish: Ensures even cooking and crispiness of the chicken tenders.
• Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining ingredients without making a mess.
• Knife: Essential for accurately cutting chicken breasts into tender-sized strips.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Help keep your ingredient ratios precise for the best flavor.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Tenders

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound)
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Coating

• 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• Nonstick cooking spray

How to Make Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a baking dish by spraying it with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

• Slice the chicken breasts into tender-sized strips.
• Season generously with salt and pepper on both sides.

Step 3: Make the Coating Mixture

In a mixing bowl:
* Combine panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt. Mix well until evenly blended.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken Strips

Drizzle freshly squeezed lemon juice over the seasoned chicken strips.
* Ensure each piece is fully coated in lemon juice before dredging them in the breadcrumb mixture.
* Press gently to ensure they adhere well.

Step 5: Bake the Chicken Tenders

Place the coated chicken strips on the prepared baking dish:
* Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
* The internal temperature should reach at least 165°F (74°C).

Step 6: Serve with Extra Zest

Drizzle with additional lemon juice just before serving to enhance flavor. Enjoy your delicious Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders!

How to Serve Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders

Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders are versatile and can be served in various delicious ways. These suggestions will elevate your dining experience, whether you’re enjoying them as a main dish or an appetizer.

As a Main Course

• Serve with a side salad for a fresh and light meal.
• Pair with roasted vegetables for a hearty and nutritious option.

In Wraps

• Use in wraps with lettuce, tomatoes, and your favorite sauces for a tasty lunch.
• Add avocado and sliced peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.

As Appetizers

• Serve with dipping sauces like ranch or honey mustard for a crowd-pleasing starter.
• Arrange on a platter with toothpicks for easy snacking at parties.

With Pasta

• Toss with cooked pasta and olive oil for an easy weeknight dinner.
• Add cherry tomatoes and spinach for added color and nutrients.

How to Perfect Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders

Perfecting your Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders can make all the difference in taste and texture. Here are some tips to ensure they turn out great every time.

• Marinate: Consider marinating the chicken in lemon juice and garlic for one hour before coating. This enhances flavor and tenderness.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh garlic instead of pre-minced options for better aroma and taste.
• Even Coating: Ensure each chicken strip is evenly coated in the breadcrumb mixture for consistent crunchiness.
• Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check that chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
• Crispier Texture: For extra crispiness, broil the tenders during the last 2-3 minutes of baking.
• Experiment with Herbs: Add dried herbs like thyme or crushed red pepper to the breadcrumb mixture for added depth of flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders

To complement your Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders, consider these delightful side dishes that bring balance to your meal.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes infused with garlic that pair perfectly with chicken tenders.
2. Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds color and nutrition while being quick to prepare.
3. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing salad with quinoa, cucumbers, and feta cheese provides a healthy grain option.
4. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries add a hint of sweetness that contrasts nicely with savory chicken tenders.
5. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with Caesar dressing complements the flavors of the tenders well.
6. Coleslaw: A crunchy slaw brings freshness and texture that balances the meal’s richness.
7. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf seasoned with herbs makes an excellent base under the chicken tenders.
8. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter is summer’s perfect side dish that pairs well year-round.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your dish to perfection.

• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season the chicken strips adequately can lead to bland tenders. Always use salt and pepper generously for flavor.
• Not preheating the oven: Baking in a cold oven affects cooking time and texture. Ensure your oven is preheated to the correct temperature before placing the chicken inside.
• Using regular breadcrumbs instead of panko: Regular breadcrumbs don’t provide the same crispy texture. Opt for panko breadcrumbs for that perfect crunch.
• Overcrowding the baking dish: Placing too many chicken strips in one pan can cause them to steam rather than bake. Arrange them in a single layer for even cooking.
• Ignoring cooking time: Cooking them for too long will result in dry chicken. Keep an eye on them and use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach 165°F (75°C).
• Not letting them rest: Cutting into the chicken immediately after baking can let juices escape. Allow the tenders to rest for a few minutes before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders

• Place cooled tenders in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short bursts of 30 seconds until warmed, but this may soften the crispy coating.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over medium heat with a bit of oil, flipping occasionally until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders that might help you out.

Can I use turkey instead of chicken?

You can definitely substitute turkey for chicken in this recipe. The cooking time may vary slightly, so check for doneness accordingly.

What sides go well with Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders?

These tenders pair wonderfully with salads, roasted vegetables, or mashed potatoes. Feel free to get creative with your side dishes!

How do I make these tenders gluten-free?

To make gluten-free Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders, use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Can I prepare these ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the breading ahead of time and store it separately from the raw chicken until you’re ready to bake.

Final Thoughts

Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders are a delightful blend of flavors that appeal to everyone at the table. Their versatility means they can be served as a main course or as crowd-pleasing appetizers. Don’t hesitate to customize this recipe with your favorite herbs or spices for an extra twist!

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Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders

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• Author: Lara
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders are a delightful twist on a classic favorite, delivering crispy, golden goodness infused with zesty lemon and savory garlic flavors. These tender chicken strips are baked to perfection, ensuring a healthier alternative to traditional frying while still maintaining that irresistible crunch. Ideal for busy weeknights or entertaining guests, these tenders can be served solo or dressed up in wraps and salads for added flair. With just a handful of ingredients and simple preparation steps, this dish is sure to become a family favorite that impresses at any gathering.

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Ingredients

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• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 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

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
2. Slice chicken breasts into strips and season with salt and pepper.
3. In a bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, and salt.
4. Drizzle lemon juice over the chicken strips; coat each piece in the breadcrumb mixture.
5. Arrange coated strips in the baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp should reach 165°F).
6. Serve warm with extra lemon juice drizzled on top.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 3 tenders (approximately 100g)
• Calories: 270
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 23g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 23g
• Cholesterol: 70mg