Prepare to be swept off your feet by the irresistible flavors of these Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders! Juicy chicken strips coated in a crispy, cheesy breadcrumb crust infused with tangy lemon and garlic – it’s a symphony of taste that’s sure to have your taste buds dancing with delight. Whether you’re whipping up a family-friendly meal or craving a delicious snack, these Irresistible Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders are the answer to all your cravings.
Table of Contents
Ingredients for Irresistible Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound)
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Nonstick cooking spray
How to Make Irresistible Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders
Get ready to dive into a world of tantalizing flavors with these Irresistible Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders! This easy-to-follow recipe will have you serving up a delectable dish that’s sure to impress.
Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Dish
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grab a baking dish. Spray the dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent the chicken tenders from sticking.
Step 2: Slice and Season the Chicken
Slice the chicken breasts into tender-sized strips, then season them with a pinch of salt and pepper.
Step 3: Mix the Coating
In a bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, and a sprinkle of salt. Stir everything together until well combined.
Step 4: Coat the Chicken
Drizzle the freshly squeezed lemon juice over the seasoned chicken strips, then dip and coat them in the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring each tender is evenly coated.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Arrange the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking dish and pop them in the oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and cooked through, with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once the Irresistible Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders are out of the oven, you can optionally drizzle them with a touch of additional lemon juice for an extra burst of citrusy flavor. Serve them hot and enjoy every delectable bite!

Tips for Perfect Chicken Tenders
To ensure your Irresistible Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders turn out perfectly crispy and flavorful, here are a few helpful tips:
- Marinate the Chicken: For even more flavor, try marinating the chicken strips in a mixture of lemon juice, garlic, and herbs for a few hours (or even overnight) before breading and baking.
- Adjust Baking Time: Keep a close eye on the chicken tenders during the baking process, as oven temperatures can vary. Adjust the baking time as needed to ensure they’re cooked through without burning.
- Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before removing it from the oven.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Spread the coated chicken tenders out in a single layer on the baking dish to allow for even cooking and crisping.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
These Irresistible Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders are incredibly versatile and pair well with a variety of side dishes. Here are some delicious options to consider:
- Lemon Herb Quinoa: The bright, citrusy flavors of the chicken tenders complement the nutty, fluffy quinoa beautifully.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy, garlicky mashed potatoes make a comforting and satisfying side for these chicken tenders.
- Simple Green Salad: A fresh, crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette dressing balances out the richness of the chicken tenders.
For dipping sauces, try whipping up a tangy garlic aioli, a zesty lemon herb vinaigrette, or a cool and creamy spicy ranch dressing. The possibilities are endless for pairing these Irresistible Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders with your favorite side dishes and dips.
Variations and Substitutions
While the Irresistible Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders are truly delicious as-is, feel free to get creative and experiment with different variations:
- Alternative Proteins: Swap out the chicken for tofu or shrimp for a vegetarian or seafood-based option.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers to make these tenders suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
- Cheese Alternatives: Try using mozzarella, cheddar, or a blend of cheeses in place of the Parmesan for a different flavor profile.
- Flavor Variations: Add dried herbs, spices, or a touch of hot sauce to the breadcrumb mixture to customize the flavor to your liking.
More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy
- Bacon-Wrapped Cheesy Ranch Chicken Tenders
- Crispy Chicken Bacon Loaded Cheese Stick Bombs
- Crispy Chicken Bacon Cheese Stuffed Wonton Bombs
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, you can definitely use boneless, skinless chicken thighs as an alternative to chicken breasts. Chicken thighs tend to be juicier and have a richer flavor, making them a great option for this dish. Be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through—aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
How can I make these chicken tenders spicier?
To add some heat to your Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders, consider incorporating cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes into the breadcrumb mixture. You can also marinate the chicken in a spicy sauce, like hot sauce or sriracha, for a few hours before breading. Another option is to serve the tenders with a spicy dipping sauce to complement the flavors.
Can I air fry these chicken tenders instead of baking them?
Absolutely! Air frying is a great alternative that can yield crispy chicken tenders while using less oil. Preheat your air fryer to 390°F (200°C). Place the coated chicken tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket and cook for about 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they are golden brown and cooked through. Always check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
What are some variations for a more Mediterranean flavor profile?
To give your chicken tenders a Mediterranean twist, you can add dried oregano, basil, or thyme to the breadcrumb mixture. Consider replacing the lemon juice with a splash of white wine vinegar for a different tang. Additionally, you might try topping the cooked tenders with a sprinkle of feta cheese and some chopped olives or sun-dried tomatoes before serving for an enhanced flavor experience.
Conclusion
Prepare to be dazzled by the irresistible flavors of these Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders! With their crispy, cheesy coating and tantalizing citrus-garlic notes, these chicken tenders are sure to become a new family favorite. Whether you’re serving them up as a main dish or enjoying them as a delightful snack, these Irresistible Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Get ready to wow your taste buds and savor every mouthwatering bite!
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Discover Irresistible Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders Today!
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Prepare to be swept off your feet by the irresistible flavors of these Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders! Juicy chicken strips coated in a crispy, cheesy breadcrumb crust infused with tangy lemon and garlic – it’s a symphony of taste that’s sure to have your taste buds dancing with delight. Whether you’re whipping up a family-friendly meal or craving a delicious snack, these Irresistible Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders are the answer to all your cravings.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- Nonstick cooking spray
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F and grab a baking dish. Spray the dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent the chicken tenders from sticking.
2. Slice the chicken breasts into tender-sized strips, then season them with a pinch of salt and pepper.
3. In a bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, and a sprinkle of salt. Stir everything together until well combined.
4. Drizzle the freshly squeezed lemon juice over the seasoned chicken strips, then dip and coat them in the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring each tender is evenly coated.
5. Arrange the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking dish and pop them in the oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and cooked through, with an internal temperature of 165°F.
6. Once the Irresistible Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders are out of the oven, you can optionally drizzle them with a touch of additional lemon juice for an extra burst of citrusy flavor. Serve them hot and enjoy every delectable bite!
Notes
To ensure your Irresistible Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders turn out perfectly crispy and flavorful, here are a few helpful tips:
– Marinate the Chicken: For even more flavor, try marinating the chicken strips in a mixture of lemon juice, garlic, and herbs for a few hours (or even overnight) before breading and baking.
– Adjust Baking Time: Keep a close eye on the chicken tenders during the baking process, as oven temperatures can vary. Adjust the baking time as needed to ensure they’re cooked through without burning.
– Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F before removing it from the oven.
– Avoid Overcrowding: Spread the coated chicken tenders out in a single layer on the baking dish to allow for even cooking and crisping.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg