Description
Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders are a crispy, juicy dish with a tangy lemon garlic butter sauce and rich Parmesan flavor. Quick to make, these tender chicken pieces are perfect for a family dinner, appetizer, or meal prep.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb chicken tenders (or boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips)
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (for extra crunch)
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (freshly grated)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 eggs (for dredging)
- 1/2 cup flour (for dredging)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil (for frying)
- 1 fresh lemon (zest and juice)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
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Prepare the Chicken:
- Season chicken tenders with salt and pepper. If using chicken breasts, cut them into strips about 1 inch wide.
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Set Up the Breading Station:
- In one bowl, place flour. In a second bowl, whisk eggs. In a third bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
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Bread the Chicken:
- Dredge chicken tenders in flour, then dip in eggs, and coat with the panko Parmesan mixture. Press gently to ensure the breadcrumbs adhere.
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Cook the Chicken:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken tenders for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy, with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Remove from skillet and drain on paper towels.
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Make the Lemon Garlic Parmesan Sauce:
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds. Add lemon juice and zest, stirring to combine.
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Toss the Chicken in the Sauce:
- Return the chicken tenders to the skillet and toss in the lemon garlic sauce for 1-2 minutes.
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Serve:
- Transfer to a plate, garnish with parsley and additional Parmesan if desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Storage: Store leftover tenders in an airtight container for up to 2-3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.
- Customizations: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for a spicy version. You can also bake the tenders at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes instead of frying.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Frying, Sautéing
- Cuisine: American , Italian
Keywords: Lemon Garlic Chicken Tenders Crispy Chicken Tenders Parmesan Chicken Quick Chicken Recipe Easy Appetizer