What makes a perfect weeknight dinner? For me, it’s all about quick and easy homemade recipes like these tender and juicy lemon garlic parmesan chicken tenders, made with fresh lemon and garlic. Save this idea for a delicious family favorite meal to try soon

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

Introduction

Imagine sinking your teeth into crispy, juicy, and aromatic chicken tenders, smothered in a zesty lemon garlic parmesan sauce, served on a pristine white plate with a side of refreshing lemon wedges. This dish is not only a delightful treat for the taste buds but also a testament to the magic that happens when everyday ingredients come together in perfect harmony. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, requiring minimal effort while yielding impressive results that are sure to impress both family and friends. Whether you’re a culinary novice or a seasoned chef, this lemon garlic parmesan chicken tenders recipe is a must-try, promising a flavorful adventure that will leave you craving for more.

Why This Works

• Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: The combination of lemon, garlic, and parmesan creates a symphony of flavors that are both bold and balanced. Moreover, these ingredients are readily available in most kitchens, making this dish highly accessible.
• Ease of preparation: The recipe is straightforward and simple to follow, requiring no special cooking techniques or equipment, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend meal.
• Impressive results with minimal effort: Despite its simplicity, the dish presents beautifully and tastes sophisticated, making it an excellent choice for entertaining guests or special occasions.

Key Ingredients

The success of this dish hinges on the quality and freshness of its key ingredients. You will need boneless, skinless chicken breasts, which you can cut into tenders yourself for uniformity and to ensure they cook evenly. Fresh lemons are essential for both their juice and zest, providing a bright, citrusy flavor. Garlic, preferably fresh and minced, adds a depth of flavor. Parmesan cheese, with its nutty, slightly salty taste, is the perfect complement to the lemon and garlic. For the breading, you’ll need all-purpose flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs, preferably Panko for their light, airy texture. Olive oil is used for frying, and salt and pepper are necessary for seasoning. Practical substitutions include using chicken tenderloins if whole breasts are not available, and substituting parmesan with other hard cheeses like pecorino or romano for a slightly different flavor profile.

Instructions

1. Step 1: Begin by preparing your ingredients. Cut the chicken breasts into tenders, mince the garlic, zest the lemon, and squeeze its juice. In a shallow dish, mix together the flour, a pinch of salt, and a few grinds of pepper. In another dish, beat the eggs until they’re well mixed, and in a third, place the breadcrumbs.
2. Step 2: Cook the chicken tenders. Dip each tender first in the flour, coating it lightly, then in the eggs, making sure they’re fully coated, and finally in the breadcrumbs, pressing the crumbs gently onto the chicken to ensure they stick. Heat about half an inch of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Fry the breaded chicken tenders until they’re golden brown and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes per side. Repeat with the remaining tenders.
3. Step 3: Layer the flavors. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the oil and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Cook for about 1 minute, until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Then, squeeze in the lemon juice and sprinkle the parmesan cheese into the skillet. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. Add the cooked chicken tenders back into the skillet and toss them in the lemon garlic parmesan sauce until they’re well coated.
4. Step 4: Final touches and plating. Serve the lemon garlic parmesan chicken tenders hot on a white plate. Garnish with additional parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of parsley if desired. Serve with lemon wedges on the side, allowing each person to squeeze a bit of fresh lemon juice over their chicken tenders.

Handy Tips

• To ensure the breadcrumbs stick well to the chicken, make sure the eggs are well beaten and the breadcrumbs are fresh. Also, gently pressing the breadcrumbs onto the chicken helps.
• For an extra crispy coating, you can chill the breaded chicken tenders in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before frying.
• Be careful not to overcook the chicken. It should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to be safe to eat.

Heat Control

Heat control is crucial in this recipe, especially when frying the chicken tenders. The ideal temperature for frying is between 350°F (175°C) and 375°F (190°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, you can test the heat by dropping a small piece of breadcrumb into the oil; it should sizzle and rise to the surface quickly. The chicken is done when it reaches a golden brown color and the internal temperature is 165°F (74°C). Always use a food thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to a safe temperature.

Crunch Factor

Achieving the right crunch factor is key to the success of this dish. The Panko breadcrumbs provide a light, airy crunch that complements the tender chicken perfectly. To enhance the crunch, ensure that the breadcrumbs are fresh and that you don’t overmix them with the eggs or flour. Also, frying the chicken at the right temperature helps in achieving a crispy exterior. For an extra crunchy coating, you can also try chilling the breaded chicken tenders before frying, as the cold temperature helps the breadcrumbs adhere better to the chicken.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• For better browning, pat the chicken dry with paper towels before breading. This helps the breadcrumbs adhere better and promotes even browning.
• Use a thermometer to ensure the oil reaches the ideal frying temperature. This prevents the oil from being too hot or too cold, which can affect the texture and taste of the chicken.
• Don’t overcrowd the skillet. Fry the chicken tenders in batches if necessary, to ensure they have enough room to cook evenly. Overcrowding can lower the oil temperature, leading to greasy or undercooked chicken.

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 at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

Gift Packaging Ideas

If you’re considering gifting these delicious chicken tenders, presentation is key. Place the cooled chicken tenders in a decorative tin or airtight container. You can wrap the container in a colorful ribbon or twine and add a gift tag with the recipe or a personal message. For a more rustic look, place the tenders in a paper cone or a wooden basket, lined with parchment paper or a paper towel, and tie the top with a ribbon. Don’t forget to include a side of lemon wedges and a small jar of homemade lemon garlic sauce for dipping.

Flavor Variations

• Different spices: Try adding a pinch of paprika for a smoky flavor, dried herbs like thyme or rosemary for an earthy taste, or a bit of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
• Creative toppings: In addition to parmesan cheese, you can top your chicken tenders with diced onions, chopped fresh parsley, or grated carrots for added flavor and texture.
• Ingredient swaps: For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs. You can also substitute the chicken with turkey or pork tenders for a different twist.

Troubleshooting

• Texture problems: If your chicken tenders turn out too greasy, it might be because the oil wasn’t hot enough. If they’re too dry, you might have overcooked them.
• Ingredient replacements: If you don’t have lemons, you can use limes or even oranges for a different citrus flavor. For garlic, you can substitute with shallots or onions, though the flavor will be slightly different.
• Over/undercooking signs: Always check the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it’s cooked to a safe 165°F (74°C). Undercooked chicken will feel soft and squishy, while overcooked chicken will be hard and dry.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? Yes, 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 reheat in the oven when you’re ready.
• Is it gluten-free? The recipe can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs. Always check the ingredients of the breadcrumbs and any store-bought items like sauces to ensure they are gluten-free.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can easily double or even triple the recipe if you’re serving a larger crowd. Just remember to fry the chicken tenders in batches to prevent overcrowding the skillet.

Conclusion

This lemon garlic parmesan chicken tenders recipe is a versatile and delicious addition to any meal, whether it’s a quick dinner, a special occasion, or even a gift for someone special. The combination of crispy exterior, tender interior, and the burst of lemon garlic parmesan flavor is sure to delight. Feel free to experiment with the recipe, adding your own favorite spices or toppings to make it truly yours. The key to success lies in the balance of flavors and the care in preparation, so don’t be afraid to get creative and enjoy the process. Happy cooking, and I hope you and your loved ones savor every bite of these delectable chicken tenders!