Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders are a delicious twist on a classic favorite. These tenders feature a zesty coating made from garlic, Parmesan cheese, and lemon juice that provides a crunchy texture to the juicy chicken inside. Perfect for busy weeknight dinners or entertaining friends, this dish is simple to prepare and incredibly satisfying. Enjoy them as a main course, in wraps, or as appetizers sure to impress your guests.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have these flavorful chicken tenders ready in no time.
- Flavorful Coating: The combination of garlic, lemon, and Parmesan creates a mouthwatering taste that will keep everyone coming back for more.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve them as a main dish, in salads, or as party appetizers—perfect for any occasion!
- Healthy Option: This recipe uses lean chicken breasts and is baked rather than fried, making it a healthier choice without sacrificing flavor.
- Kid-Friendly: Kids love the crispy texture and delicious taste, making this dish a great choice for family meals.
Tools and Preparation
To make Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders successfully, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment will streamline your cooking process and ensure perfect results.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking dish
- Mixing bowl
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking dish: Ensures even cooking and provides enough space to arrange the chicken tenders without crowding.
- Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients thoroughly so every piece of chicken gets coated evenly.
- Knife: A sharp knife helps slice the chicken breasts into tender-sized strips effortlessly.
- Cutting board: Provides a safe and clean surface to prepare your ingredients.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Tenders
- 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
How to Make Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare your baking dish by spraying it with nonstick cooking spray.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
- Slice chicken breasts into tender-sized strips.
- Season them generously with salt and pepper.
Step 3: Make the Coating
In a mixing bowl:
* Combine panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt.
Step 4: Coat the Chicken
- Drizzle lemon juice over the seasoned chicken strips.
- Coat each piece thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture until evenly covered.
Step 5: Bake the Tenders
Place the coated chicken strips on your prepared baking dish:
* Bake for 20-25 minutes until they are golden brown and cooked through.
Step 6: Serve with Extra Flavor
Drizzle with additional lemon juice before serving to enhance flavor. Enjoy your Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders!
How to Serve Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders
Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders can be enjoyed in various ways, making them a versatile option for any meal. Whether as a main dish, in a wrap, or served as appetizers, these tenders are sure to impress.
As a Main Dish
- Serve with a side salad for a light and healthy meal.
- Pair with mashed potatoes for a comfort food experience.
In Wraps
- Use whole wheat tortillas to create flavorful wraps filled with fresh vegetables and creamy dressing.
- Add avocado slices for added creaminess and nutrition.
As Appetizers
- Offer them with a zesty dipping sauce like lemon aioli or marinara.
- Skewer the tenders on toothpicks for easy serving at parties.
With Pasta
- Toss the tenders over a bed of pasta tossed in olive oil and garlic for an Italian-inspired dish.
- Add sautéed spinach or cherry tomatoes for extra flavor and color.
How to Perfect Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders
To achieve the perfect Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders, consider these helpful tips that enhance flavor and texture.
- Marinate the chicken – Letting the chicken strips sit in lemon juice and garlic for one hour adds depth of flavor.
- Use fresh ingredients – Fresh garlic and real Parmesan cheese will elevate the taste significantly.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking dish – Ensure enough space between each tender to maintain crispiness while baking.
- Experiment with herbs – Adding thyme or crushed red pepper can provide an exciting flavor boost.
- Adjust cooking time – Keep an eye on your tenders; cooking times can vary based on your oven’s accuracy.
Best Side Dishes for Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders
Complement your Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders with these delicious side dishes that enhance the overall meal experience.
- Caesar Salad – A classic pairing with crisp romaine, crunchy croutons, and creamy dressing.
- Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal veggies roasted with olive oil enhance flavors and add color to your plate.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic create a comforting side.
- Quinoa Salad – A protein-packed salad mixed with cucumbers, tomatoes, and a light lemon vinaigrette.
- Steamed Broccoli – Simple yet nutritious, steamed broccoli adds vibrant color and health benefits.
- Sweet Potato Fries – Crispy sweet potato fries serve as a delightful contrast to savory chicken tenders.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
It’s easy to make small errors when preparing Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Using regular breadcrumbs: Regular breadcrumbs can result in a less crunchy texture. Stick with panko breadcrumbs for that perfect crunch.
- Not seasoning the chicken properly: Skipping the seasoning can lead to bland chicken. Ensure you season the chicken strips well with salt and pepper before coating them.
- Overcrowding the baking dish: Crowding can cause the chicken to steam instead of bake, leading to a soggy texture. Give each piece space on the baking sheet for even cooking.
- Ignoring the oven temperature: Baking at too low of a temperature can prevent proper browning. Always preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) for optimal crispiness.
- Skipping lemon juice drizzle: Failing to drizzle lemon juice before serving can diminish flavor. Always add extra lemon juice right before serving for that fresh zesty kick.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- They will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the fridge.
Freezing Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders
- Place 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 to 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 1-2 minutes, but this may reduce crispiness.
- Stovetop: Sauté in a nonstick skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through and crispy.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have questions about making Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.
Can I use turkey instead of chicken?
Yes, turkey is a great alternative! Just ensure it’s cooked through like chicken.
What can I serve with Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders?
These tenders pair well with salads, rice, or as a filling in wraps and sandwiches.
How do I make the tenders spicier?
Add crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy kick.
Can I prepare these tenders ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can coat the chicken ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake.
What is the best way to store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze them for longer storage.
Final Thoughts
Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders are not only delicious but also versatile. Whether served as a main course or in wraps, they promise satisfaction. Feel free to customize by adding herbs or substituting proteins like turkey or tofu. Enjoy crafting this delightful dish!
Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders
Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders are a delightful twist on a beloved classic, offering a zesty and crunchy coating that perfectly complements juicy chicken. These baked tenders are simple to prepare, making them an ideal choice for busy weeknight dinners or entertaining guests. As versatile as they are delicious, they can be served as a main dish, in wraps, or as appetizers that will impress your friends and family. With their quick preparation time and kid-friendly appeal, these chicken tenders will become a family favorite in no time.
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
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
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- Slice the chicken breasts into tender-sized strips and season with salt and pepper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt.
- Drizzle lemon juice over the chicken strips and coat each piece thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture.
- Arrange the coated tenders in the prepared baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve hot with additional lemon juice drizzled on top for enhanced flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tender (approximately 75g)
- Calories: 218
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 348mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: For added flavor depth, marinate the chicken strips in lemon juice and garlic for about an hour before coating. Fresh ingredients yield the best results; opt for fresh garlic and real Parmesan cheese. To achieve maximum crispiness, avoid overcrowding the baking dish while baking.