Imagine biting into a tender, juicy piece of chicken coated in a delightful blend of lemon, garlic, and parmesan. The aroma wafts through your kitchen, promising a flavor explosion that will tickle your taste buds. One Pan Balsamic Chicken And Veggies That’s exactly what Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders deliver, a heavenly experience that turns any ordinary day into a culinary celebration.
I still remember the first time I made these chicken tenders for a family gathering. My cousin, always the picky eater, polished off three helpings and declared them “life-changing.” Now, every holiday gathering requires my signature dish, and I can’t complain because they are as easy to make as they are delicious!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This recipe features effortless preparation that allows you to create an impressive dish without breaking a sweat
- The zesty flavor profile combines tangy lemon with rich parmesan for a mouthwatering taste
- Visually appealing golden-brown tenders will impress your guests at any dinner party
- Perfectly versatile, these chicken tenders work well for lunch, dinner, or even as snacks!
I still chuckle when I think about how everyone swooped in like vultures the minute I set the platter down at our last family BBQ.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding.
- Fresh Garlic: Choose firm, fresh garlic cloves for the best flavor; don’t skimp on this, garlic lovers unite!
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice packs a punch; bottled juice just doesn’t cut it for this recipe.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grated parmesan adds richness; buy block cheese and grate it yourself for optimal freshness.
- Panko Breadcrumbs: These light and crispy breadcrumbs elevate texture; they give your chicken tenders that perfect crunch.
- Olive Oil: A drizzle of good-quality olive oil helps everything stick together and adds healthy fats. For more inspiration, check out this Healthy Lentil Curry recipe.
- Salt and Pepper: Simple yet essential; season generously to bring out all those amazing flavors.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup, thank me later.
Prepare the Chicken Breasts: Cut your boneless chicken breasts into strips; aim for uniformity so they cook evenly. Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac And Cheese Pat them dry with paper towels and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
Mix the Coating Ingredients: In one bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, grated parmesan cheese, minced garlic, and lemon zest. Give it a good stir, this is where magic happens!
Create the Wet Mixture: In another bowl, whisk together olive oil and fresh lemon juice until well combined. Grilled Chicken Avocado Salad Bowl This mixture is crucial for ensuring that coating sticks beautifully to your chicken.
Dip and Coat the Chicken Strips: Take each chicken strip and dip it into the wet mixture first. Let any excess drip off before rolling it in the breadcrumb mix. Place each coated strip onto your prepared baking sheet.
Bake Until Golden Brown: Pop those beauties into the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes 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) and smell heavenly!
And voilà! Your Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders are ready to serve. Try not to eat them all at once, though I won’t judge if you do! For more inspiration, check out this Chicken Spring Rolls recipe recipe.
Now you have everything you need to whip up these delightful tenders that bring smiles to everyone’s faces! Enjoy this simple yet flavorful dish that’s guaranteed to become a favorite at your table!
You Must Know
- This Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders recipe is more than just delicious; it’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner, yet impressive enough for guests
- The zesty aroma of lemon and garlic will have everyone lining up for seconds
- Plus, the crispy coating is irresistible!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating the chicken tenders in lemon, garlic, and parmesan. While they soak up those flavors, preheat your oven. Bake them until golden brown, ensuring each tender is cooked through.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the parmesan for another cheese like mozzarella or add herbs like oregano for a flavor twist. You can even toss in some crushed red pepper for a spicy kick!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F until heated through—this keeps them crispy!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly juicy chicken tenders, don’t skip marinating!
- A delicious marinade makes all the difference
- Make sure to pat dry before coating to ensure that crispy finish
- Lastly, avoid overcrowding the baking tray to allow even cooking and browning
Cooking this Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders recipe brought back fond memories of family dinners where laughter filled the air and everyone fought over the last piece. Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Casserole.
FAQ
Can I use frozen chicken tenders?
Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely before marinating.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
Aim for at least 30 minutes for optimal flavor absorption.
What can I serve with these chicken tenders?
Serve them with a side salad or your favorite dipping sauce for a complete meal.

Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders
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- Author: Jessica Harper
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4
Description
Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders are a delectable treat that transforms any meal into a gourmet experience. These crispy, juicy tenders are coated with a tangy lemon-garlic blend and rich parmesan, making them irresistible for both adults and kids alike. Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests, this recipe is simple yet delivers impressive flavor. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce or alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 3–4 breasts)
- 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cut the chicken breasts into strips and pat dry with paper towels. Season with salt and pepper.
- In one bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs, grated parmesan cheese, minced garlic, and lemon zest.
- In another bowl, whisk together olive oil and lemon juice.
- Dip each chicken strip in the wet mixture, allowing excess to drip off before coating in the breadcrumb mix.
- Place the coated strips on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F or 75°C).
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 tenders (120g)
- Calories: 305
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 470mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 29g
- Cholesterol: 80mg