In the culinary universe, few things are as delightful as the aroma of Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders wafting through your kitchen. Picture this: succulent chicken tenders, perfectly seasoned and roasted to golden perfection, each bite bursting with tangy lemon zest and rich parmesan flavor. BBQ Chicken Roasted Sweet Potato Bowls It’s not just a dish; it’s an experience that makes you feel like a gourmet chef in your own home.
Now, let me take you back to a sunny Saturday afternoon when I first whipped up these tender delights for my family dinner. The kids were running around like little tornadoes, but as soon as they caught a whiff of that lemony goodness, they transformed into polite little diners—at least for a few minutes! This is the kind of recipe that’s perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in. Trust me; once you try it, you’ll be counting down the days until your next chance to make these tasty bites.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This amazing chicken marinade offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
- Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.
Ingredients for Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders
For more inspiration, check out this Air Fryer Parmesan Chicken recipe.
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts will do the job well; adjust based on your hungry crowd.
- Fresh Garlic: Opt for firm cloves to pack that punch of flavor; no one likes sad garlic!
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed is best; it adds brightness and balances the richness of the cheese.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese: Look for high-quality parmesan to elevate your dish from good to unforgettable.
- Olive Oil: A drizzle helps achieve that crispy texture while infusing flavor—think of it as chicken’s best friend.
- Panko Breadcrumbs: They add that irresistible crunch; choose plain or seasoned based on your taste buds.
- Salt and Pepper: Basic yet essential—don’t forget to season generously for maximum flavor!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While you’re at it, spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray so our chicken won’t get stuck like last week’s leftovers.
Step 2: Prepare Your Chicken
Take those beautiful boneless chicken breasts and slice them into tender-sized pieces. Season with salt and pepper because bland chicken is just sad!
Step 3: Create Your Marinade
In a bowl, mix together fresh minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and half of the grated parmesan cheese. This zesty mixture will turn dull chicken tenders into little bites of heaven.
Step 4: Coat the Chicken
Dip each piece of chicken into the marinade until they’re fully coated. Then roll them in panko breadcrumbs mixed with the remaining parmesan cheese for that crunchy crust we all crave.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden
Arrange the coated tenders on your prepared baking dish and pop them in the oven for about 20-25 minutes or until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer if you’re feeling fancy—it should read at least 165°F (74°C).
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Transfer those golden beauties onto plates and drizzle with any leftover marinade if you’ve got some left over (no judgment here!). Serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauce or even over a fresh salad for a complete meal.
And there you have it! A plate full of Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders ready to impress family or friends—or simply treat yourself after a long day! Each bite promises bursts of flavor that’ll leave everyone asking for seconds—or thirds if you’re feeling particularly generous!
You Must Know
- This amazing chicken marinade offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
- Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Sear the chicken first to lock in those delicious juices, then cook your sides while preparing the zesty lemon garlic parmesan sauce. This sequence ensures everything is ready to serve hot and fresh!
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the chicken for turkey or even beef if you’re feeling adventurous. Add some crushed red pepper flakes for a kick or toss in some spinach for an extra veggie boost.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, keeping that tender goodness intact.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh herbs instead of dried ones for a burst of flavor that truly shines.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan while searing; this ensures even cooking and a nice golden crust.
- Lastly, let the chicken rest after cooking to keep it juicy and delicious.
I remember the first time I made these Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders for a family gathering; everyone went back for seconds and thirds! The compliments still echo in my kitchen today.
FAQs :
What are the best sides to serve with Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders?
Pairing Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders with light, fresh sides enhances the meal. Consider serving them with a crisp garden salad, steamed broccoli, or garlic mashed potatoes. Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo For a refreshing touch, coleslaw or a quinoa salad also works well. These sides complement the zesty flavors of the chicken while providing balance to your plate. For more inspiration, check out this Chicken Parmesan Recipe recipe.
How long do Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders last in the fridge?
Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders can last up to three days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container. Be sure to let them cool completely before sealing to retain their texture. To reheat, simply bake or sauté until warmed through, ensuring they stay crispy on the outside for the best enjoyment.
Can I freeze Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders?
Yes, you can freeze Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders for future meals. After cooking and cooling, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last for up to two months in the freezer. Reheat directly from frozen for convenience.
Are there any substitutes for Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders?
You can easily adapt Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders by using turkey or lamb instead of chicken for different flavors. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, consider using tofu or tempeh coated with lemon and garlic seasoning. The same cooking method applies, ensuring everyone enjoys this delicious dish regardless of dietary preferences.
Conclusion for Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders :
In summary, Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders are a flavorful and versatile dish perfect for any meal. Using accessible ingredients like chicken and fresh seasonings creates an enticing flavor profile that appeals to many palates. Hawaiian Chicken With Coconut Rice With easy side pairings and storage options, this recipe is not only delicious but practical too. Enjoy this delightful dish at home and impress your family and friends!

Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders
Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders are a delectable dish that combines the bright flavor of lemon with the savory richness of parmesan cheese. These tender, juicy chicken pieces are coated in a crunchy panko breadcrumb crust, making them a perfect choice for family dinners or casual gatherings. Ready in just over 40 minutes, this recipe is both simple and satisfying, ensuring everyone at your table will be asking for seconds.
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 3/4 cup grated parmesan cheese, divided
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- Slice the chicken into tender-sized pieces and season with salt and pepper.
- In a bowl, mix minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and half of the grated parmesan cheese.
- Coat each piece of chicken in the marinade, then roll them in panko breadcrumbs mixed with the remaining parmesan.
- Arrange the coated tenders in the prepared dish and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and cooked through (165°F internal temperature).
- Serve hot with dipping sauce or over a fresh salad.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tenders (150g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 470mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 27g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: - For extra flavor, marinate chicken for at least 30 minutes before coating. - Feel free to substitute chicken with turkey or tofu for a vegetarian option. - Add crushed red pepper flakes for heat or toss in spinach for added nutrients.