If you’re craving a meal that’s bursting with bright flavors and irresistible crunch, this Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders Recipe is about to become your new go-to. Imagine tender, juicy chicken perfectly coated in a golden Parmesan and breadcrumb crust, then kissed with zesty lemon juice and fragrant garlic—it’s comfort food elevated to a fresh, vibrant level. Whether you’re feeding family or impressing friends, these chicken tenders strike the perfect balance of tangy, savory, and crispy in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, approachable ingredients is key to making this dish both delicious and easy. Each component plays a crucial role, bringing layers of flavor and texture that transform basic chicken tenders into a mouthwatering masterpiece.
- Chicken tenders: The star of the show, naturally juicy and quick to cook.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, salty crunch that crisps beautifully.
- Breadcrumbs: Provide that essential crunchy coating and help bind the coating to the chicken.
- Olive oil: Brings richness and helps meld the flavors of garlic and lemon.
- Garlic cloves, minced: Infuse the dish with warm, aromatic depth.
- Lemon juice: Offers a bright, tangy punch to keep each bite lively.
- Dried parsley: Adds a mild herbal note and a pop of color.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings done right to enhance all the other flavors.
How to Make Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure your chicken tenders don’t stick and cleanup is a breeze.
Step 2: Mix the Parmesan Coating
In a shallow dish, combine grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, dried parsley, salt, and pepper. This mixture will create a wonderfully crispy, flavorful crust that clings to every tender piece of chicken.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken Tenders
Dip each chicken tender into the Parmesan mixture, making sure to coat it evenly on all sides. This careful attention to coating will guarantee a deliciously crispy exterior once baked. Lay the coated tenders out on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 4: Whisk Together the Garlic Lemon Olive Oil
In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, minced garlic, and freshly squeezed lemon juice. This tangy, garlicky blend will be drizzled over the tenders to add moisture and incredible flavor.
Step 5: Drizzle the Flavor
Generously drizzle the lemon-garlic olive oil mixture over the coated chicken tenders. The olive oil helps everything crisp beautifully in the oven while infusing each bite with zesty, savory notes.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. You’re looking for a golden-brown crust with tender, fully cooked chicken inside. The aroma at this stage is simply irresistible!
Step 7: Rest and Serve
Once baked, remove the tenders and let them rest for a few minutes. This allows juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is juicy and tender.
Step 8: Enjoy!
Your Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders Recipe is ready to share and savor. Grab your favorite dipping sauce or enjoy them as is—either way, prepare for compliments!
How to Serve Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley or extra grated Parmesan on top adds a beautiful finishing touch, elevating both presentation and flavor. A few lemon wedges on the side invite everyone to squeeze on an extra pop of brightness.
Side Dishes
These chicken tenders pair wonderfully with crisp salads, roasted vegetables, or creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting yet fresh meal. For a lighter touch, serve alongside steamed asparagus or a simple arugula salad tossed with olive oil and lemon.
Creative Ways to Present
For a casual gathering, offer the Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders Recipe stacked on a platter with small bowls of dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or a spicy aioli. Alternatively, slice them up to top a hearty grain bowl or toss into a wrap for a handheld delight.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. They stay surprisingly flavorful and crisp when properly stored.
Freezing
If you want to save these for another day, freeze the tenders in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a freezer bag or container. This prevents them from sticking together and keeps the Parmesan crust nice. Freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating
Reheat frozen or refrigerated tenders in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through and crisp. Avoid microwaving, as it may make the coating soggy.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?
Absolutely! Just slice chicken breasts into strips roughly the size of tenders. The cooking time might be slightly longer, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs to keep that satisfying crunch without gluten. Check labels to ensure your Parmesan and other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
Can I bake these in an air fryer?
You sure can. Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and cook for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through. Keep an eye on them to achieve that perfect golden crust.
What dipping sauces go well with Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders Recipe?
They’re delicious with ranch, honey mustard, garlic aioli, or even a spicy buffalo sauce. The tangy and savory flavor of the tenders pairs nicely with both creamy and zesty options.
How can I make this recipe less lemony if I prefer milder flavors?
You can reduce the amount of lemon juice or add a bit more olive oil to balance the tang. The garlic and Parmesan are flavorful enough to carry the dish without overwhelming your taste buds.
Final Thoughts
This Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders Recipe is a total winner when you want something simple yet impressive. The combination of zesty lemon, savory Parmesan, and crispy coating makes every bite a delight. I can’t wait for you to try it and see how quickly it becomes a favorite in your own kitchen!
Print
Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders recipe features tender chicken coated in a flavorful mixture of Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, and herbs, then drizzled with a zesty lemon garlic olive oil. Baked to golden perfection, these chicken tenders are crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, making them a delicious and easy meal for any occasion.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 pound chicken tenders
Coating
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garlic Lemon Drizzle
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 lemons, juiced
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Prepare Coating Mixture: In a shallow dish, combine grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, dried parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create a flavorful coating for the chicken tenders.
- Coat Chicken Tenders: Dip each chicken tender into the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to ensure an even, thorough coating. Arrange the coated tenders evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
- Make Garlic Lemon Drizzle: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, and freshly squeezed lemon juice until well combined.
- Drizzle Over Chicken: Pour the garlic lemon mixture evenly over the coated chicken tenders on the baking sheet, ensuring good coverage to add flavor and moisture.
- Bake Chicken Tenders: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is crispy and golden brown.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the tenders from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes to allow juices to redistribute before serving.
- Enjoy: Serve your delicious Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders hot, perfect as a main dish or appetizer.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, you can broil the chicken tenders for an additional 1-2 minutes at the end of baking—watch carefully to prevent burning.
- If you prefer, substitute dried parsley with fresh parsley for a brighter herb flavor.
- The recipe works well with chicken breasts cut into strips if chicken tenders are unavailable.
- To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs.
- Leftover chicken tenders can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven to retain crispiness.
