Oh my goodness, let me tell you about these *lemon garlic parmesan chicken tenders*! They’re honestly a game changer in my kitchen. Just picture this: tender, juicy chicken tossed in a zesty marinade of fresh lemon juice and minced garlic, then coated in a crunchy layer of parmesan and breadcrumbs. It’s such a simple dish, yet it bursts with flavor that feels like a fancy restaurant meal! I love how quick and easy they are to whip up on a busy weeknight, and they’re always a crowd-pleaser at family dinners. Trust me, once you try them, they’ll become a staple in your home too!
Ingredients Needed for Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders
Alright, let’s gather everything we need for these delicious *lemon garlic parmesan chicken tenders*! Here’s your shopping list to make sure you’ve got everything covered:
- 1 pound chicken tenders: Look for fresh, high-quality chicken tenders for the best flavor and texture.
- 1/4 cup lemon juice: Freshly squeezed is ideal for that bright, zesty kick!
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: More garlic means more flavor, so don’t be shy if you love it!
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese: Make sure it’s freshly grated for maximum creaminess and flavor.
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs: This adds that irresistible crunch. You can use plain or seasoned, depending on your preference.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: This helps the coating adhere and gives a lovely flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Always adjust to your liking, as this is where you can really make it your own!
Having all these ingredients prepped and ready will make the cooking process a breeze. So, take a moment to measure everything out before you dive into cooking. You’ll be so glad you did!
How to Prepare Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders
Now that we’ve got our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—preparing these *lemon garlic parmesan chicken tenders*! Follow along with these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal in no time.
Preheat the Oven
First things first, go ahead and preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This way, by the time you’re done prepping your chicken, the oven will be ready to work its magic!
Marinate the Chicken Tenders
Now, in a mixing bowl, combine that lovely 1/4 cup lemon juice, 3 cloves minced garlic, 2 tablespoons olive oil, and sprinkle in some salt and pepper to taste. Give it a good whisk to mix everything together. Once your marinade is looking good, toss in the 1 pound chicken tenders. Make sure they’re all coated nicely! Cover the bowl and let them marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. If you’ve got the time, letting them soak up that flavor for an hour or even two is just heavenly!
Prepare the Coating
While the chicken is marinating, let’s get that crispy coating ready! In a separate bowl, combine 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese and 1/4 cup breadcrumbs. Give it a good mix to combine. This mixture is what will give your chicken that delectable crunch and cheesy goodness!
Coat the Chicken Tenders
Once the chicken has marinated, take each tender and coat it in the parmesan and breadcrumb mixture. I like to really press it on there to make sure it sticks—more crunch is always a good thing! Make sure each piece is nicely covered, and don’t be afraid to get your hands a bit messy; it’s part of the fun!
Bake the Chicken Tenders
Now it’s time for baking! Place those beautifully coated chicken tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup. Pop them in the oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes. You’ll want to keep an eye on them—look for that golden brown color and make sure they’re cooked through. A quick poke with a meat thermometer should show 165°F (75°C) for safety. Once they’re done, let them cool for a minute before serving up those crispy, juicy tenders!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Oh, let me count the ways you’ll adore these *lemon garlic parmesan chicken tenders*! First off, they’re incredibly quick to prepare—perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. You can whip them up in just about 55 minutes, including marinating time!
And can we talk about flavor? The zesty lemon, fragrant garlic, and rich parmesan create a mouthwatering combination that’ll have everyone asking for seconds. Plus, it’s a healthy dish that’s gluten-free, making it a fantastic option for family meals or gatherings. You can easily serve them alongside a fresh salad or roasted veggies for a complete, nutritious dinner. Trust me, these tenders are not just another chicken dish; they’re a delightful experience that’ll leave you and your loved ones smiling with every bite!
Tips for Success with Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders
To make sure your *lemon garlic parmesan chicken tenders* turn out absolutely perfect, I’ve got a few handy tips up my sleeve! Trust me, these little nuggets of wisdom will elevate your dish to new heights.
- Season to Taste: Don’t be shy with the salt and pepper! Adjusting the seasoning to your preference is key. You can also add some Italian herbs like oregano or basil for an extra flavor boost.
- Longer Marination: If you can, let those chicken tenders marinate longer than 30 minutes—up to 2 hours is fantastic! This gives the flavors more time to soak in, making each bite even tastier.
- Breadcrumb Choices: Experiment with different types of breadcrumbs! Panko breadcrumbs will give you an extra crunch, while seasoned breadcrumbs can add even more flavor. Just go with what makes your taste buds sing!
- Serving Suggestions: These tenders are super versatile! Serve them with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice on top for brightness, or pair them with a tangy dipping sauce like ranch or a zesty garlic aioli. They also make a great addition to a salad, so feel free to get creative!
- Storage Tips: If you happen to have leftovers (which I doubt because they’re so delicious!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for that crispiness to return—no one likes a soggy tender!
With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to making the most mouthwatering *lemon garlic parmesan chicken tenders* that will impress everyone at your table!
Nutritional Information
Alright, let’s talk about the nutrition behind these *lemon garlic parmesan chicken tenders*! Here’s an estimated breakdown of the typical nutritional values per serving. Keep in mind these are estimates and can vary based on specific brands and ingredients used:
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
This dish is not only packed with protein but also offers a good balance of flavors while keeping it relatively light. Just think about it—enjoying a tasty meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious! So, you can feel good about serving these tenders to your family, knowing they’re getting a wholesome dish. Yum!
FAQ Section
Got questions about these *lemon garlic parmesan chicken tenders*? No problem! Here are some common queries I hear, along with my best answers to help you out:
Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?
Absolutely! If you prefer chicken breasts, just cut them into strips to mimic the size of tenders. Make sure to adjust the cooking time as they might take a bit longer than the tenders—just ensure they reach that safe internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Can I make these chicken tenders ahead of time?
Sure thing! You can marinate the chicken tenders a day in advance and keep them in the fridge. Just coat them with the parmesan and breadcrumb mixture before baking. This way, they’re ready to pop in the oven when you need them!
What can I serve with lemon garlic parmesan chicken tenders?
These tenders are super versatile! They pair wonderfully with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or even some crispy fries. You can also serve them with a dipping sauce like ranch or a tangy lemon aioli for an extra flavor kick!
Can I freeze leftover chicken tenders?
Yes, you can! Just let them cool completely, then store them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just reheat in the oven for that crispy texture to come back!
How do I know when the chicken is done cooking?
The best way to check is to use a meat thermometer. You’re looking for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, just make sure the chicken is golden brown and the juices run clear when pierced!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Now, let’s talk about how to store those delicious *lemon garlic parmesan chicken tenders* if you happen to have any leftovers—though I doubt it! But just in case, here’s what you need to know:
First, let the chicken tenders cool completely after baking. Once they’ve cooled down, store them in an airtight container. This is super important for keeping them fresh and preventing them from drying out. You can keep them in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to label the container with the date so you know when you made them!
When it comes to reheating, I highly recommend using the oven to keep that crispy texture intact. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), then place the chicken tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again. If you’re in a hurry, the microwave is an option too, but it might make them a bit soggy—so be careful with that!
If you want to store them for longer, you can freeze the chicken tenders! Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them overnight in the fridge, then reheat in the oven as mentioned above. This way, you can savor the goodness of these tenders later on! Yum!
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Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders in 5 Easy Steps
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Lemon garlic parmesan chicken tenders are a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that combines tender chicken with zesty lemon, garlic, and parmesan cheese.
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken tenders
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, mix lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Marinate chicken tenders in the mixture for 30 minutes.
- In another bowl, combine parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs.
- Coat each chicken tender in the cheese and breadcrumb mixture.
- Place coated chicken tenders on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve hot with your choice of side.
Notes
- Adjust seasoning according to your taste.
- For extra flavor, let the chicken marinate longer.
- Serve with a fresh salad or vegetables.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: lemon garlic parmesan chicken tenders
