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 just a few ingredients including fresh lemons and savory parmesan cheese. Save this idea for a family favorite meal that’s sure to please everyone.

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

Introduction

Imagine sinking your teeth into crispy, juicy chicken tenders, bursting with the vibrant flavors of lemon, garlic, and parmesan, all perfectly balanced on a pristine white plate, accompanied by a squeeze of fresh lemon wedges. This dish is a masterclass in simplicity and elegance, proving that with a few everyday ingredients, you can create something truly special. The beauty of lemon garlic parmesan chicken tenders lies in their ease of preparation, the accessibility of their ingredients, and the impressive results they yield with minimal effort. Whether you’re a novice in the kitchen or a seasoned chef, this recipe is sure to delight, offering a versatile and delicious meal option for any occasion.

Why This Works

• Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: The combination of lemon, garlic, and parmesan offers a harmonious balance of citrus, savory, and umami flavors that are both intriguing and comforting. Moreover, these ingredients are readily available in most supermarkets, making this dish highly accessible.
• Ease of preparation: The steps involved in preparing lemon garlic parmesan chicken tenders are straightforward and require minimal specialized cooking techniques, making it an ideal recipe for those looking for a quick and hassle-free meal option.
• Impressive results with minimal effort: Despite its simplicity, the presentation and flavor profile of this dish are impressive, making it suitable for both casual meals and special occasions. The contrast of the crispy, golden chicken against the freshness of the lemon wedges on a white plate is visually appealing and promises a delightful culinary experience.

Key Ingredients

The core ingredients for lemon garlic parmesan chicken tenders include chicken breasts, lemon zest, lemon juice, garlic, parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, eggs, salt, and pepper. For the breading, you can use either panko breadcrumbs or regular breadcrumbs, depending on your preference for a lighter or crunchier coating. The parmesan cheese can be freshly grated for the best flavor. If you’re looking for substitutions, you can use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version or almond flour for a low-carb alternative. Additionally, for those who prefer less garlic, you can reduce the amount or use garlic powder as a substitute.

Instructions

1. Step 1: Begin by preparing your ingredients. Cut the chicken breasts into tender strips, mince the garlic, grate the parmesan cheese, and zest the lemon. In a shallow dish, mix together the breadcrumbs and parmesan cheese. In another dish, beat the eggs. Season the chicken strips with salt and pepper.
2. Step 2: Dip each chicken strip into the eggs, coating it completely, then roll it in the breadcrumb mixture to coat. Place the coated chicken strips on a plate or tray. Heat about half an inch of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add a few of the chicken strips (do not overcrowd the skillet) and cook until they are golden brown and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes per side. Repeat with the remaining chicken strips.
3. Step 3: While the chicken is cooking, mix the minced garlic with some melted butter or olive oil and brush it over the chicken strips during the last minute of cooking. This will give the chicken a rich, garlicky flavor. Also, squeeze some lemon juice over the chicken for an extra burst of citrus flavor.
4. Step 4: Once the chicken is done, place the tenders on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Serve the lemon garlic parmesan chicken tenders hot on a white plate, garnished with lemon wedges and parsley if desired. You can also serve them with your favorite dipping sauce, such as marinara or a homemade aioli.

Handy Tips

• For an extra crispy coating, you can chill the breaded chicken strips in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before frying. This helps the breadcrumbs adhere better to the chicken.
• Do not overcrowd the skillet, as this can lower the oil temperature and result in greasy or undercooked chicken. Cook the chicken strips in batches if necessary.
• Always check the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it reaches a safe minimum internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to avoid foodborne illness.

Heat Control

The ideal temperature for frying the chicken tenders is between 350°F (175°C) and 375°F (190°C). If you have a thermometer, use it to monitor the oil temperature. If not, you can test the heat by dropping a small piece of breadcrumb into the oil; if it sizzles and rises to the surface, the oil is ready. The cooking time will depend on the size of your chicken strips but generally ranges from 5 to 7 minutes per side. The chicken is done when it reaches the safe internal temperature and the breading is golden brown.

Crunch Factor

Achieving the right crunch on your lemon garlic parmesan chicken tenders is crucial for their appeal. The crunch comes from the breadcrumb coating, which should be crispy and golden. To enhance the crunch, ensure that the breadcrumbs are evenly coated on the chicken and that the oil is at the right temperature for frying. If you prefer a lighter crunch, you can use panko breadcrumbs or even try baking the chicken tenders in the oven instead of frying, although this method will yield a slightly different texture.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• For a professional touch, consider double-frying your chicken tenders. This involves frying them once at a lower temperature to cook them through, then increasing the heat to crisp the exterior. This technique ensures that the chicken is both juicy and crispy.
• Use a variety of cheeses in your breadcrumb mixture for a more complex flavor profile. Parmesan is a classic choice, but you can also experiment with mozzarella, cheddar, or even feta for different twists.
• Keep your workspace clean and organized by preparing all your ingredients before starting to cook. This will make the cooking process smoother and less stressful.

Storage Tips

• If you have leftover lemon garlic parmesan chicken tenders, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until crispy and heated through.
• For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked chicken tenders for up to 2 months. Simply place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag or container and thaw them overnight in the refrigerator when you’re ready to eat them. Reheat as instructed above.
• It’s also possible to prepare the breaded chicken strips ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to a day before frying. This can be a great time-saving strategy for busy days.

Gift Packaging Ideas

If you’re considering gifting lemon garlic parmesan chicken tenders, perhaps for a potluck or as part of a meal basket, you can package them in adorable paper cones or small cardboard boxes lined with parchment paper. Include a side of marinara sauce or a homemade dipping sauce in a small jar, and don’t forget to add a few lemon wedges on the side for a pop of color and freshness. You can tie the box or cone with a ribbon and add a gift tag with the ingredients used, making it a thoughtful and personalized gift.

Flavor Variations

• Different spices: Experiment with various spice blends like Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, or chili powder to give your chicken tenders a unique flavor.
• Creative toppings: Once the chicken is cooked, you can top it with a variety of ingredients such as diced onions, chopped parsley, crumbled bacon, or shaved parmesan cheese for added texture and flavor.
• Ingredient swaps: For a vegetarian version, you can substitute the chicken with breaded and fried portobello mushrooms or zucchini strips, offering a delicious plant-based alternative.

Troubleshooting

• Texture problems: If your breading doesn’t stick well to the chicken, try chilling the breaded strips before frying. If the chicken turns out too dry, it might be overcooked; aim for the correct internal temperature and don’t overcook.
• Ingredient replacements: If you’re out of parmesan cheese, you can substitute it with other hard cheeses like pecorino or romano. For garlic, you can use garlic powder as a substitute, though the flavor will be slightly different.
• Over/undercooking signs: Undercooked chicken will be pink and soft, while overcooked chicken will be dry and hard. Always check the internal temperature to ensure food safety.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? Yes, you can freeze both the breaded but unfried chicken strips and the cooked chicken tenders. See the storage tips section for detailed instructions.
• Is it gluten-free? The recipe can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs. Ensure that all other ingredients, including the cheese and any sauces, are also gluten-free.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can easily double or triple the recipe for a larger crowd. Just be sure to fry the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding the skillet.

Conclusion

Lemon garlic parmesan chicken tenders are a versatile and delicious meal option that can elevate any dining experience with their vibrant flavors and satisfying crunch. With their ease of preparation, accessibility of ingredients, and the impressive results they yield, this dish is perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs. Feel free to experiment with different flavors and toppings to make the recipe your own, and don’t hesitate to share your creations with friends and family. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a quick weeknight dinner, lemon garlic parmesan chicken tenders are sure to delight, offering a culinary experience that is both comforting and sophisticated.