What makes the perfect weeknight dinner? For me, it’s all about quick and easy homemade meals like these tender and juicy lemon garlic parmesan chicken tenders, made with freshly squeezed lemon juice and crispy parmesan cheese. Save this idea for a stress-free family favorite meal to enjoy any night of the week, perfect for a busy weeknight dinner. Try it soon and enjoy with your loved ones, Pin for later

lemon garlic parmesan chicken tenders on a white plate with lemon wedges

Introduction

Imagine sinking your teeth into tender, juicy chicken tenders, coated in a rich, aromatic blend of lemon, garlic, and parmesan, all perfectly balanced to delight your senses. This dish is not just about flavor; it’s about ease, creativity, and the joy of cooking with everyday ingredients. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, lemon garlic parmesan chicken tenders are a recipe that promises impressive results with minimal effort. The best part? It’s incredibly versatile, allowing you to experiment with different flavors and textures to make it your own. So, let’s dive into the world of culinary delight and explore how to make these mouthwatering chicken tenders.

Why This Works

• Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: The combination of lemon, garlic, and parmesan creates a harmony of flavors that are both familiar and exciting. Plus, these ingredients are easily found in most grocery stores, making this dish accessible to anyone.
• Ease of preparation: By using chicken tenders, the preparation time is significantly reduced, and the cooking process is straightforward, making it perfect for a quick dinner or a party appetizer.
• Impressive results with minimal effort: Despite its simplicity, the presentation and taste of lemon garlic parmesan chicken tenders are impressive, sure to delight both family and friends.

Key Ingredients

The magic of this dish lies in its simple yet potent ingredients. You’ll need chicken tenders as the base, olive oil for a healthy and flavorful start, minced garlic for that unmistakable aroma, freshly squeezed lemon juice for a burst of citrus, parmesan cheese for a salty, nutty flavor, and breadcrumbs for a crispy exterior. For added depth, you can also use dried or fresh herbs like parsley or thyme. Practical substitutions can include using chicken breasts cut into strips if tenders are not available, and for those looking for a lighter option, panko breadcrumbs can be used for an extra crispy coating.

Instructions

1. Step 1: Begin by prepping your ingredients. Chop the garlic, squeeze the lemon juice, grate the parmesan cheese, and prepare your breadcrumbs. This step is crucial as it sets the stage for a smooth and efficient cooking process.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, mix together the garlic, lemon juice, a pinch of salt, and a few grinds of pepper. Add the chicken tenders and marinate for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat. Meanwhile, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Step 3: Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Dip each tender into the beaten eggs and then coat in the breadcrumb mixture mixed with parmesan cheese, pressing gently to adhere. Place the coated tenders in the skillet and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side.
4. Step 4: Once cooked, place the chicken tenders on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Serve hot on a white plate with lemon wedges on the side. You can garnish with parsley or thyme for added freshness and color.

Handy Tips

• For an extra crispy coating, chill the breaded chicken tenders in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before cooking. This helps the breadcrumbs adhere better to the chicken.
• Don’t overcrowd the skillet. Cook the chicken tenders in batches if necessary, to ensure they have enough room to cook evenly.
• If you find your breadcrumbs are not sticking well, try dipping the chicken in a little bit of olive oil before coating with breadcrumbs.

Heat Control

Heat control is crucial when cooking the chicken tenders. Ideally, you want to cook them over medium heat to prevent the breadcrumbs from burning before the chicken is cooked through. A good sign of doneness is when the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Also, pay attention to the color; the chicken should be golden brown and firm to the touch.

Crunch Factor

Achieving the perfect crunch on your chicken tenders can elevate the dish significantly. To ensure your tenders are crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, make sure not to overcook them. The breadcrumb coating should be golden and crunchy, which can be enhanced by using panko breadcrumbs or adding a little bit of grated parmesan to the breadcrumb mix for extra flavor and texture.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• For a lighter version, you can bake the chicken tenders instead of frying them. Simply place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
• To add an extra layer of flavor, sprinkle some dried herbs like thyme or oregano over the chicken tenders before baking or frying.
• Experiment with different types of cheese. While parmesan is classic, you can also try using mozzarella, cheddar, or even feta for a unique twist.

Storage Tips

• Leftover chicken tenders can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
• When reheating, make sure the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure food safety.

Gift Packaging Ideas

If you’re looking to give lemon garlic parmesan chicken tenders as a gift, consider packaging them in a decorative tin or airtight container. You can serve them cold, perfect for a picnic or outdoor gathering, and pair them with a side of marinara sauce or a fresh green salad. Add a personal touch with a ribbon or a handwritten note, and you have a thoughtful and delicious gift.

Flavor Variations

• Different spices: Try adding some cayenne pepper for a spicy kick or smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
• Creative toppings: Serve your chicken tenders with a variety of toppings such as marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or a homemade slaw made with red cabbage and carrots.
• Ingredient swaps: For a vegan version, you can use tofu or tempeh instead of chicken, and vegan breadcrumbs and cheese alternatives.

Troubleshooting

• Texture problems: If your chicken tenders are not crispy, try chilling them in the fridge before cooking or using a higher ratio of panko to regular breadcrumbs.
• Ingredient replacements: If you don’t have parmesan, you can substitute it with other hard cheeses like pecorino or romano.
• Over/undercooking signs: Make sure to check the internal temperature of the chicken and the color of the breadcrumbs. Undercooked chicken will be soft and pink inside, while overcooked chicken will be dry and hard.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? Yes, you can freeze both cooked and uncooked chicken tenders. For uncooked, prepare them up to the breadcrumb stage, then freeze. For cooked, let them cool completely before freezing.
• Is it gluten-free? Depending on the breadcrumbs used, this dish can be gluten-free. Look for gluten-free breadcrumbs or use gluten-free flours like almond or coconut flour to make your own breadcrumbs.
• Can I double the recipe? Absolutely. Simply double all the ingredients and cook in batches if necessary to prevent overcrowding the skillet.

Conclusion

Making lemon garlic parmesan chicken tenders is a journey of discovery, where the simplicity of the ingredients meets the complexity of the flavors. It’s a dish that encourages experimentation and creativity, whether you’re a novice cook or a seasoned pro. So, don’t be afraid to try new things, to add your own twist, and to share this delightful recipe with others. Remember, the joy of cooking lies not just in the eating, but in the sharing and the love that goes into every dish. Happy cooking, and bon appétit!