Description
Irresistible Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders are a delightful dish that will make your taste buds sing. These tenders are infused with an incredible blend of lemon, garlic, and Parmesan cheese, creating a symphony of flavors. Each bite offers a satisfying crunch followed by the juicy goodness of chicken. This recipe is simple, quick, healthy, kid-friendly, and versatile, making it perfect for family dinners or weeknight meals.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound chicken tenders
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (preferably Panko for extra crunch)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels.
- In a shallow bowl, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and Italian herbs if using. Mix well.
- In another bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, and lemon zest.
- Dip each chicken tender into the marinade, then dredge in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
- Place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and coating is golden brown.
- Check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Remove from oven and sprinkle with fresh parsley for garnish.
Notes
- Use fresh lemon juice and garlic for the best flavor.
- Marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes enhances flavor and juiciness.
- Experiment with other spices like paprika or cumin for added flavor.
- For a spicy version, add cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture.
- Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary into the breadcrumb mix.
- Add shredded mozzarella cheese to the breadcrumbs for a gooey texture.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freeze cooked tenders in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven.
- You can substitute chicken breasts sliced into strips if tenders are unavailable.
- These tenders pair well with coleslaw, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables.
- You can grill these chicken tenders; marinate as directed and grill on medium heat.
- To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Sugar: N/A
- Sodium: N/A
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: N/A
- Unsaturated Fat: N/A
- Trans Fat: N/A
- Carbohydrates: N/A
- Fiber: N/A
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: N/A