Name: Irresistible Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken tenders; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 lemon, juiced and zested; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 2 eggs, beaten; Oil for frying (optional)

Lemon garlic parmesan chicken tenders garnished with herbs on a plate.

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Why Make This Recipe

Irresistible Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders are a delightful dish that everyone will love. They are crispy, flavorful, and easy to make. The combination of tangy lemon, savory garlic, and rich Parmesan cheese makes these chicken tenders a perfect choice for dinner or a snack. Plus, they can be baked or fried, giving you the flexibility to prepare them according to your preferences.

How to Make Irresistible Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders

Ingredients:

1 lb chicken tenders
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup breadcrumbs
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 lemon, juiced and zested
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 eggs, beaten
Oil for frying (optional)

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) or heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
In a bowl, mix together Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
Dip each chicken tender first into the beaten eggs, then coat in the Parmesan mixture.
If baking, place the coated tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and cooked through. If frying, cook in oil for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
Serve with lemon wedges and your favorite dip.

How to Serve Irresistible Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders

Serve these chicken tenders fresh out of the oven or frying pan. They go well with a squeeze of lemon juice on top. You can also pair them with a dipping sauce like ranch, honey mustard, or a spicy mayo for extra flavor. Add a side of vegetables or a salad for a complete meal.

How to Store Irresistible Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for about 2-3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to regain their crispiness.

Tips to Make Irresistible Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders

For extra crunch, try using panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs.
Let the chicken sit for a few minutes after baking or frying to allow the juices to settle before serving.
Don’t skip the lemon zest, as it adds great flavor to the dish.

Variation

You can spice up the chicken tenders by adding some dried herbs like oregano or thyme to the breadcrumb mixture. You can also use different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or cheddar, for a different taste.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken tenders?
Yes, you can cut chicken breasts into strips if you don’t have chicken tenders. Just make sure they are evenly sized for even cooking.

Can I bake these chicken tenders without oil?
Yes, baking them without oil is fine. They will still be tasty, but using oil will give them a crispier texture.

How long do these chicken tenders take to cook?
When baked, they usually take about 20-25 minutes at 400°F. If frying, they take around 3-4 minutes on each side. Always check that the chicken is cooked through before serving.