Description
Crispy, juicy, and packed with flavor, these Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders are a quick and easy way to elevate your weeknight dinner. Coated in a zesty marinade and a cheesy breadcrumb crust, they’re perfect for dipping or serving with your favorite sides.
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds chicken tenders (or boneless chicken strips)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian herbs
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Fresh parsley, chopped, and lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Toss the chicken tenders in the marinade, ensuring even coating. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 4 hours.
- Prepare the Coating: In one bowl, whisk eggs with water. In another bowl, mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, paprika, and garlic powder.
- Bread the Chicken: Remove chicken tenders from the marinade. Dip each tender into the egg mixture, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
- Cook the Tenders:
- Oven Method: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange tenders on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Air Fryer Method: Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Cook tenders in a single layer for 10–12 minutes, shaking halfway.
- Pan-Fry Method: Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook tenders in batches for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.
- Serve and Enjoy: Garnish with parsley and serve with lemon wedges and your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, lightly spray the tenders with cooking spray before baking or air frying.
- Ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- To make the recipe gluten-free, substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Freeze uncooked, breaded tenders for meal prep convenience and cook directly from frozen, adjusting cooking time as needed.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Main Course
- Method: Baking, Air Frying, Pan-Frying
- Cuisine: American