Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders That Will Wow You

Oh my goodness, let me tell you about these Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders! They’re crispy, they’re full of flavor, and they’re super easy to whip up, making them the perfect choice for busy weeknights or when you’re just craving something delicious. Trust me, the combination of zesty lemon, savory garlic, and rich parmesan cheese creates a taste explosion that’ll have everyone asking for seconds. My family absolutely loves these tenders! I can’t count how many times I’ve made them for dinner, and they never disappoint. Plus, they’re baked, not fried, so you can indulge a little guilt-free. You’re going to want to try these!

Ingredients List

To make these delightful Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders, you’ll need the following fresh ingredients:

• 1 pound chicken tenders: Tender, juicy pieces of chicken that cook quickly and soak up all that delicious flavor.
• 1 cup breadcrumbs: This is what gives your tenders that irresistible crunch. I love using panko for extra crispiness!
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese: Adds a rich, nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the lemon and garlic.
• 1 lemon, juiced and zested: The star of the show! Fresh lemon juice brightens the dish, while the zest adds an aromatic punch.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: The more garlic, the better! It brings a wonderful depth of flavor.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for bringing all the flavors together.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: A little kick to enhance the taste.
• 2 large eggs, beaten: This helps the breadcrumbs stick to the chicken, creating that lovely coating.
• 1/4 cup olive oil: Drizzled on top to keep everything moist and add more flavor as it bakes.

How to Prepare Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders

Alright, let’s dive into making these scrumptious Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders! It’s a simple process that yields deliciously crispy results. First things first, go ahead and preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is crucial because you want that oven nice and hot when it’s time to bake the tenders!

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of breadcrumbs, 1/2 cup of grated parmesan cheese, the lemon zest from your juicy lemon, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Stir it all together until well mixed—this will be your flavorful coating.
2. In another bowl, whisk together 2 beaten eggs and the juice of that lemon. This mixture helps the breadcrumbs stick to the chicken, so it’s important to get it nice and combined.
3. Next, take each chicken tender and dip it into the egg mixture, letting any excess drip off. Then, coat it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure it sticks well.
4. Place the coated chicken tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased. This makes cleanup a breeze!
5. Once all the tenders are on the sheet, drizzle 1/4 cup of olive oil over them. This adds moisture and helps them get that golden brown color.
6. Now, it’s time to bake! Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven and let them cook for about 20-25 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and cooked through. You’ll know they’re ready when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
7. And voila! Once they’re done, serve them up with some lemon wedges for that extra zing. Enjoy every crunchy, juicy bite!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick look at the estimated nutritional values for these delightful Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders. Keep in mind, these are approximate values and can vary based on your specific ingredients and portion sizes:

• Calories: 350
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 1g
• Protein: 30g
• Sodium: 500mg
• Cholesterol: 90mg

These tenders are not only delicious but also packed with protein, making them a great choice for a satisfying meal. Enjoy guilt-free indulgence with each crunchy bite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: These Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders can be whipped up in just about 40 minutes, making them a fantastic choice for busy weeknights!
• Flavor Explosion: The zesty lemon, aromatic garlic, and rich parmesan create a mouthwatering flavor combination that’s sure to impress your family and friends.
• Healthier Option: Baked instead of fried, these tenders are a lighter yet satisfying alternative, perfect for anyone looking to indulge without the guilt.
• Gluten-Free: With simple ingredients that are naturally gluten-free, everyone can enjoy these delicious tenders, regardless of dietary needs.
• Versatile: Serve them as a main dish, in wraps, or as a party appetizer; they’re perfect for any occasion!
• Kid-Friendly: Kids adore these yummy tenders, making them a surefire hit at the dinner table!

Tips for Success

To make your Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders absolutely perfect, here are some of my favorite pro tips! First, consider marinating the chicken in a mixture of lemon juice, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt for about 30 minutes before baking. This infuses the chicken with incredible flavor and keeps it juicy! Also, don’t skip the olive oil drizzle—it’s key for achieving that golden brown crust. If you want an extra crunch, try using panko breadcrumbs instead of regular ones. And remember, let the tenders rest for a couple of minutes after baking; this helps them retain their juices. Finally, always check that your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe and delicious results. Happy cooking!

Variations

If you’re feeling adventurous or just want to switch things up, there are plenty of fun variations to try with these Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders! Here are some of my favorites:

• Herb-Infused: Add fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or parsley to the breadcrumb mixture for a fragrant twist. Fresh herbs really elevate the flavor!
• Spicy Kick: If you love a little heat, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes into the breadcrumb mix or add a dash of hot sauce to the egg wash.
• Cheesy Goodness: Mix in some shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese with the parmesan for an extra cheesy layer of flavor. Yum!
• Veggie Boost: Toss in some finely chopped spinach or kale with the breadcrumbs for a sneaky way to add greens to your meal.
• Citrus Twist: Try using lime or orange juice and zest instead of lemon for a different citrusy flavor profile that’s equally refreshing.
• Nutty Crunch: For a delightful crunch, mix in some finely chopped nuts, like almonds or walnuts, into the breadcrumb coating.

Feel free to mix and match these ideas to create your own unique version of these delicious tenders. The sky’s the limit! Enjoy experimenting!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing your leftover Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders is super easy! Just place any uneaten tenders in an airtight container and pop them in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for about 3-4 days, which is great for those busy evenings when you want a quick meal!

When it comes to reheating, I recommend using the oven to maintain that delicious crunch. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), then arrange the chicken tenders on a baking sheet. Bake them for about 10-15 minutes, or until they’re heated through and crispy again. You can also use an air fryer if you have one—just set it to about 375°F (190°C) and cook for around 5-8 minutes. Just keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking!

If you’re in a rush, you can use the microwave, but I have to warn you, they might lose some of that lovely crunch. Just pop them on a microwave-safe plate and heat for about 30 seconds to a minute, checking them often to ensure they don’t get rubbery. Enjoy those tasty tenders again!

Serving Suggestions

These Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders are so versatile and can be enjoyed in so many delicious ways! Here are a few of my favorite serving suggestions that will complement their crispy, flavorful goodness:

• Fresh Salad: Serve them over a bed of mixed greens with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing and healthy meal.
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes pair perfectly with the zesty tenders for a comforting dish.
• Roasted Vegetables: A side of seasonal roasted veggies adds color and nutrition to your plate while enhancing the overall meal.
• Dips: Try serving these tenders with a side of tangy ranch dressing, garlic aioli, or a zesty lemon dip for extra flavor.
• Wrap It Up: Use them in a wrap with fresh veggies and a spread of your choice for a quick and tasty lunch option.
• Pasta: Toss them with your favorite pasta and a light lemon-garlic sauce for a delightful and hearty dinner.

Whichever way you choose to serve them, these tenders are sure to be a hit at your table! Enjoy!

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