There’s something undeniably satisfying about biting into a perfectly crispy, flavorful chicken tender. With this Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders Recipe, you’ll experience juicy chicken coated in a golden breadcrumb crust infused with zesty lemon, garlic, and Parmesan. These chicken tenders aren’t just for kids—they’re a hit with everyone, making them perfect for weeknight dinners, party platters, or even meal prepping.
Imagine serving these alongside a fresh salad, roasted veggies, or your favorite dipping sauce. They’re easy to make, full of flavor, and sure to disappear quickly from the plate.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe takes classic chicken tenders to a whole new level with the addition of lemon, garlic, and Parmesan. Here’s why it’ll become a go-to in your kitchen:
- Bursting with Flavor: The marinade infuses the chicken with tangy, garlicky goodness, while the Parmesan adds a savory kick.
- Easy to Make: Simple steps and basic ingredients make this recipe a breeze.
- Baked, Not Fried: You’ll get all the crispiness without the extra oil.
- Customizable: Adjust the spices, breadcrumbs, or sides to fit your preferences.
Ingredients for Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders
Here’s everything you need to create these delicious chicken tenders.
Marinade Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Egg | 1 large |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Lemon juice | 2 tablespoons (or juice of 1/2 a lemon) |
| Fresh parsley (chopped) | 1 tablespoon |
| Garlic (minced) | 2 teaspoons |
| Salt | 3/4 teaspoon |
| Cracked black pepper | 1/4 teaspoon |
Chicken
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chicken tenders | 28 ounces (about 8-10 pieces) |
Breadcrumb Coating
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Panko breadcrumbs | 1 cup |
| Regular breadcrumbs (seasoned or unseasoned) | 1/2 cup |
| Paprika (mild, smoky, or sweet) | 1 teaspoon |
| Garlic powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Onion powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Parmesan cheese (freshly grated) | 1/4 cup |
Step-by-Step Instructions for Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders
1. Preheat and Prepare Your Baking Tray
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Lightly grease a baking tray or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Make the Egg Mixture
- In a large bowl, whisk together:
- Egg
- Olive oil
- Lemon juice
- Parsley
- Garlic
- Salt and black pepper
3. Marinate the Chicken
- Dip the chicken tenders into the egg mixture, ensuring they’re fully coated.
- Let the chicken sit in the marinade for at least 5 minutes while you prepare the breadcrumb mixture.
- For maximum flavor, cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to an hour if time allows.
4. Prepare the Breadcrumb Mixture
- In another bowl, combine:
- Panko breadcrumbs
- Regular breadcrumbs
- Paprika
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Parmesan cheese
5. Coat the Chicken
- Dredge the marinated chicken tenders in the breadcrumb mixture.
- Press gently to ensure the coating adheres evenly.
6. Arrange on the Baking Tray
- Place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking tray.
- Lightly spray them with cooking oil spray for extra crispiness.
7. Bake to Perfection
- Bake the tenders in the preheated oven for 10 minutes.
- Flip them over and bake for another 5–10 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
- For an extra crispy finish, broil the tenders for the last 2–3 minutes.
8. Serve and Enjoy
- Serve your Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders warm with your favorite sides or dipping sauces, such as ranch, honey mustard, or marinara.
Tips for the Best Chicken Tenders
1. Use Fresh Ingredients
Fresh garlic, lemon juice, and Parmesan make all the difference in flavor.
2. Don’t Skip the Marination
Marinating the chicken allows the flavors to penetrate and keeps the tenders juicy.
3. Customize the Coating
Add crushed nuts, seeds, or spices like cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture for extra texture and flavor.
4. Check for Doneness
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 |
| Protein | 28 g |
| Carbohydrates | 12 g |
| Fat | 16 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
Creative Serving Ideas
1. Classic Pairings
- Serve with fries, coleslaw, or a simple green salad.
2. Pasta Night
- Pair with spaghetti or penne pasta tossed in marinara sauce for an Italian-inspired meal.
3. Sandwich-Style
- Add the tenders to a sandwich or wrap with lettuce, tomatoes, and a drizzle of ranch dressing.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?
Yes! Simply cut the chicken breasts into strips of similar size for even cooking.
2. Can I make these tenders in an air fryer?
Absolutely! Cook the tenders at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
3. Can I freeze these chicken tenders?
Yes! Freeze the uncooked, breaded tenders on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
4. What dipping sauces go well with this recipe?
Try ranch, honey mustard, barbecue sauce, garlic aioli, or even tzatziki for a refreshing twist.
5. How do I store leftovers?
Store cooked chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best results.
6. Can I use gluten-free breadcrumbs?
Yes! Substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives to make this recipe gluten-free.
A Final Note: Elevate Your Chicken Tender Game
These Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders are more than just a meal—they’re a delicious experience that combines crispy textures with vibrant, zesty flavors. Whether you’re cooking for your family, hosting friends, or simply treating yourself, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.
Ready to Make This Recipe?
Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and let the magic happen. Once you taste these golden tenders, you’ll be adding them to your regular recipe rotation!