There’s something magical about the comforting aroma of garlic mingling with the zest of lemon and the nutty richness of Parmesan cheese. It’s a combination that feels familiar yet exciting, simple yet elegant. This recipe for Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders is the perfect answer to weeknight dinner dilemmas, casual get-togethers, or even a wholesome snack for game day.
Imagine this: golden, crispy chicken tenders fresh out of the oven, their savory crust glistening slightly with a hint of olive oil. The first bite offers a satisfying crunch, followed by the tender juiciness of perfectly cooked chicken, complemented by the tang of lemon and the subtle heat of garlic. It’s a dish that’s as delightful to prepare as it is to eat.
Chicken tenders have long been a household favorite, loved by kids and adults alike. But these aren’t your average tenders. They’re elevated with a blend of pantry staples and fresh ingredients, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. Whether you’re preparing this dish for a family dinner or serving it as finger food at a gathering, these tenders are guaranteed to be a hit.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bursting with Flavor: The marinade, made with lemon juice, garlic, and fresh parsley, infuses the chicken with a vibrant, tangy, and aromatic profile.
- Crispy Perfection: The breadcrumb mixture, featuring Panko and Parmesan cheese, creates a crunchy, golden crust that’s irresistible.
- Kid-Friendly: These chicken tenders are mild enough for little ones while still offering enough flavor to satisfy grown-up palates.
- Healthy Alternative: Oven-baking instead of frying keeps this dish lighter without sacrificing texture or taste.
- Customizable: Swap out seasonings or breadcrumbs to suit your preferences, or add a hint of spice for an extra kick.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- For the marinade:
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (or juice of ½ a lemon)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon cracked black pepper
- For the tenders:
- 28 ounces chicken tenders
- 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
- ½ cup seasoned regular breadcrumbs (garlic, herb, or Italian)
- 1 teaspoon mild paprika (sweet, smoky, or spicy)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ cup fresh grated Parmesan cheese
How to Make Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper or lightly grease it with a thin layer of olive oil to prevent sticking. This simple step ensures even baking and easy cleanup later.
Step 2: Whisk Together the Marinade
In a large mixing bowl, combine the egg, olive oil, lemon juice, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper. Whisk until all ingredients are well blended. The marinade is key to tenderizing the chicken and infusing it with flavor. You’ll notice the tangy brightness of the lemon balancing beautifully with the robust aroma of garlic.
Step 3: Marinate the Chicken
Add the chicken tenders to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well coated. Let the chicken sit in the marinade for at least 5 minutes, but for the best flavor, cover the bowl and refrigerate for 30 minutes to an hour. While this step takes a little extra time, it’s well worth it for the enhanced flavor and texture.
Step 4: Prepare the Coating
In another bowl, mix the Panko breadcrumbs, seasoned breadcrumbs, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and Parmesan cheese. Stir well to evenly distribute the spices and cheese. This mixture is what gives the chicken tenders their signature crunch.
Step 5: Coat the Chicken
Remove each tender from the marinade, letting the excess drip off. Dredge the chicken in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating adheres. This step is where the magic happens—the breadcrumb blend creates a beautifully golden crust that’s both crunchy and flavorful.
Step 6: Arrange and Bake
Place the coated chicken tenders on your prepared baking tray, making sure they’re spaced out to allow for even cooking. Lightly spray the tops with cooking oil spray to help achieve a crispy finish. Bake for 10 minutes, then flip each tender over and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/75°C) and the coating is golden and crisp.
For an extra-crispy result, switch to the broil setting for the last 2-3 minutes. Keep a close eye to avoid burning!
Helpful Tips
- Breadcrumb Variety: While Panko provides a light, airy crunch, you can use all regular breadcrumbs if that’s what you have on hand. Just make sure they’re seasoned for the best flavor.
- Make-Ahead: Prepare the chicken up to the coating step and refrigerate on a baking tray for up to 12 hours. Bake them fresh for optimal crispiness.
- Double the Batch: These tenders freeze well. Make extra, bake, and store for quick meals or snacks later!
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Oven-Baked
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low-fat, High-protein
Notes
- Serve with your favorite dipping sauces—ranch, honey mustard, or even a zesty marinara are excellent choices.
- Pair with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fat: 14g
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken breast instead of tenders? Absolutely! Slice chicken breasts into strips to mimic the shape and size of tenders. The cooking time may vary slightly, so check for doneness.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free? Yes, substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs for both the Panko and regular breadcrumbs. Ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
What’s the best way to store leftovers? Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 375°F oven for 5-7 minutes to maintain crispiness.
Storage Instructions
For freezing, place fully baked chicken tenders on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Reheat directly from frozen at 375°F for 10-12 minutes.
Related Recipes
If you loved this recipe, try these other crispy, cheesy delights:
Conclusion
These Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders are more than just a meal—they’re a culinary hug that brings everyone to the table. With their crispy coating, tangy flavor, and tender meat, they’re bound to become a household favorite. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this recipe will make you look forward to dinnertime. Give it a try and prepare to fall in love!
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Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders
Description
There’s something magical about the comforting aroma of garlic mingling with the zest of lemon and the nutty richness of Parmesan cheese. It’s a combination that feels familiar yet exciting, simple yet elegant. This recipe for Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders is the perfect answer to weeknight dinner dilemmas, casual get-togethers, or even a wholesome snack for game day.
Imagine this: golden, crispy chicken tenders fresh out of the oven, their savory crust glistening slightly with a hint of olive oil. The first bite offers a satisfying crunch, followed by the tender juiciness of perfectly cooked chicken, complemented by the tang of lemon and the subtle heat of garlic. It’s a dish that’s as delightful to prepare as it is to eat.
Chicken tenders have long been a household favorite, loved by kids and adults alike. But these aren’t your average tenders. They’re elevated with a blend of pantry staples and fresh ingredients, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. Whether you’re preparing this dish for a family dinner or serving it as finger food at a gathering, these tenders are guaranteed to be a hit.
Ingredients
- For the marinade:
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (or juice of ½ a lemon)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon cracked black pepper
- For the tenders:
- 28 ounces chicken tenders
- 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
- ½ cup seasoned regular breadcrumbs (garlic, herb, or Italian)
- 1 teaspoon mild paprika (sweet, smoky, or spicy)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ cup fresh grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper or lightly grease it with a thin layer of olive oil to prevent sticking. This simple step ensures even baking and easy cleanup later.
Step 2: Whisk Together the Marinade
In a large mixing bowl, combine the egg, olive oil, lemon juice, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper. Whisk until all ingredients are well blended. The marinade is key to tenderizing the chicken and infusing it with flavor. You’ll notice the tangy brightness of the lemon balancing beautifully with the robust aroma of garlic.
Step 3: Marinate the Chicken
Add the chicken tenders to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well coated. Let the chicken sit in the marinade for at least 5 minutes, but for the best flavor, cover the bowl and refrigerate for 30 minutes to an hour. While this step takes a little extra time, it’s well worth it for the enhanced flavor and texture.
Step 4: Prepare the Coating
In another bowl, mix the Panko breadcrumbs, seasoned breadcrumbs, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and Parmesan cheese. Stir well to evenly distribute the spices and cheese. This mixture is what gives the chicken tenders their signature crunch.
Step 5: Coat the Chicken
Remove each tender from the marinade, letting the excess drip off. Dredge the chicken in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating adheres. This step is where the magic happens—the breadcrumb blend creates a beautifully golden crust that’s both crunchy and flavorful.
Step 6: Arrange and Bake
Place the coated chicken tenders on your prepared baking tray, making sure they’re spaced out to allow for even cooking. Lightly spray the tops with cooking oil spray to help achieve a crispy finish. Bake for 10 minutes, then flip each tender over and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/75°C) and the coating is golden and crisp.
For an extra-crispy result, switch to the broil setting for the last 2-3 minutes. Keep a close eye to avoid burning!
Notes
- Serve with your favorite dipping sauces—ranch, honey mustard, or even a zesty marinara are excellent choices.
- Pair with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
