Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders are the kind of dish that makes your taste buds do a happy dance. Imagine tender chicken, lovingly coated in a zesty lemon-garlic marinade, baked to golden perfection, and finished with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese that melts into pure deliciousness. The aroma wafts through your kitchen, wrapping you in a warm embrace, making it hard to resist sneaking a bite before they even hit the table.
This recipe isn’t just about food; it’s about creating memories. Picture this: a cozy family dinner where laughter fills the air as everyone digs into these scrumptious chicken tenders. They’re perfect for any occasion—be it a casual weeknight meal or an impromptu gathering with friends. Trust me; every bite is a flavor explosion that’ll leave you craving more.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders are incredibly easy to prepare, so you can whip them up even on your busiest days
- Bursting with bright flavors and crispy textures, they will impress anyone at your dinner table
- Their beautiful golden color and cheesy topping make them visually appealing and drool-worthy
- Plus, they’re versatile enough to pair with salads, pasta, or just about any side dish you love
Ingredients for Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: You’ll need about 3-4 chicken breasts; adjust based on how many hungry mouths you’re feeding.
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Fresh Garlic: Choose firm garlic cloves for the best flavor; nothing beats fresh when it comes to cooking.
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Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice adds brightness; bottled juice just won’t cut it in this recipe.
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Olive Oil: A good quality olive oil helps create that crispy coating while adding richness.
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Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan will melt beautifully over the chicken and add that irresistible cheesy goodness.
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Panko Breadcrumbs: These give the tenders an extra crunch; regular breadcrumbs just won’t achieve the same effect.
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Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; don’t skimp on these basics!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grab a baking dish and spray it with nonstick cooking spray so your tenders won’t stick like that one friend who never wants to leave.
Step 2: Prepare the Marinade
In a mixing bowl, combine minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Whisk until everything blends into a liquid gold of flavor.
Step 3: Marinate the Chicken
Slice your chicken breasts into tenders (or buy pre-cut ones if you’re feeling lazy) and toss them into the marinade. Let them soak up all that zesty goodness for at least 30 minutes—longer if you can wait!
Step 4: Coat with Panko
Take your marinated chicken out and let any excess marinade drip off. Now dip each tender into panko breadcrumbs mixed with grated Parmesan cheese. Make sure they’re thoroughly coated like they’ve been rolling around in cheesy cloud nine.
Step 5: Bake
Place the coated chicken tenders on your prepared baking dish and bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes. You want them golden brown and cooked through—no one likes chewy chicken!
Step 6: Serve
Transfer those crispy delights onto plates and drizzle with any leftover marinade for an extra zing! Serve hot with some fresh greens or dipping sauce of your choice.
Now that you’ve got these Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders ready, gather everyone around the table and watch as they disappear faster than you can say “seconds!” Enjoy!
You Must Know
- This delicious Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders recipe is not just a culinary delight; it’s a lifesaver for busy weeknights
- With its delightful flavors and crispy texture, it’s sure to be a family favorite
- Perfect for dipping or as a main dish, this recipe never disappoints!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating the chicken tenders in lemon juice and garlic for at least 30 minutes. While they soak up that flavor, preheat your oven and prepare your baking sheet with parchment paper. Then, bread those tenders and pop them in the oven for perfectly crispy results.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap the Parmesan cheese for cheddar or add some spicy paprika for an extra kick. You can also toss in herbs like thyme or rosemary for a fragrant twist. The possibilities are endless, so go wild!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to regain that crispy texture, avoiding the microwave if you can.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always use fresh garlic for the best flavor in your marinade
- Make sure your chicken is patted dry before breading to help the coating stick better
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet; give each tender room to breathe for even cooking
It was one of those nights when I had absolutely no plan for dinner, and my kids were threatening to revolt if I served them yet another bowl of cereal! I whipped up these Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders on a whim, and they disappeared faster than a magician’s rabbit!
FAQs:
What are Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders?
Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders are a delicious and easy-to-make dish featuring tender chicken strips coated in a flavorful mixture of lemon juice, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. The combination of these ingredients creates a zesty and savory profile that elevates the humble chicken tender to new heights. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as an appetizer for gatherings. The crispy exterior and juicy interior make them a family favorite.
How can I make Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders healthier?
To make Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders healthier, consider baking instead of frying. You can use whole wheat breadcrumbs or almond flour for the coating to increase fiber content. Additionally, reducing the amount of cheese or using a lower-fat cheese option can cut down on calories while maintaining flavor. Pair these tenders with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal that won’t compromise on taste.
Can I prep Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders in advance?
Yes, you can prep Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders in advance! To do this, marinate the chicken strips in the lemon-garlic mixture and coat them with breadcrumbs beforehand. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. This not only saves time on busy days but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making your chicken tenders even more delicious when cooked. For more inspiration, check out this cooking tips recipe.
What should I serve with Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders?
Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders pair well with various sides. Consider serving them with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a light salad for a complete meal. Dipping sauces like ranch or honey mustard complement their flavors perfectly. For a fresh twist, serve them alongside quinoa or brown rice tossed with herbs, which balances the dish’s richness while adding nutritional value.
Conclusion for Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders:
In summary, Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders offer a delightful combination of flavors that are sure to please everyone at your table. By using simple ingredients like lemon, garlic, and Parmesan cheese, you create an easy yet impressive dish suitable for any occasion. Whether you choose to bake or fry them, these tenders remain juicy on the inside with a crispy exterior. Don’t hesitate to experiment with sides and sauces to customize your meal experience further! For more inspiration, check out this main dish recipes recipe.
Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4 (8 tenders) 1x
Description
Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders are a flavorful twist on classic chicken tenders. Marinated in zesty lemon and garlic, then coated with crispy panko and melted Parmesan, these baked delights are perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings. They promise a satisfying crunch and juicy interior, making them a family favorite. Serve them hot with your choice of dipping sauce or alongside a fresh salad for a delicious meal everyone will adore.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking dish with nonstick spray.
- In a bowl, whisk together minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Slice chicken breasts into tenders and marinate in the mixture for at least 30 minutes.
- Coat each tender in panko breadcrumbs mixed with grated Parmesan cheese.
- Place the coated tenders on the baking dish and bake for about 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
- Serve hot with your choice of dipping sauce or fresh greens.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 chicken tenders (150g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 460mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 21g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
