There’s something special about making a meal at home. It creates memories that last. I remember a sunny Sunday afternoon when I made lemon garlic parmesan chicken tenders for my family.
After the first bite, my niece’s face lit up. She said, “These taste better than the ones from our favorite restaurant!” The mix of zesty lemon, aromatic garlic, and cheesy goodness is unbeatable. Ever after, these easy chicken tenders have been a favorite in my kitchen.
What Are Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders?
Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders are a tasty twist on homemade chicken tenders. They are made from chicken breast strips. These strips are marinated in lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil.
This marinade makes the chicken tender and adds a zesty taste. It makes the dish even better.
After marinating, the chicken is covered in breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese. This makes the outside crispy. The lemon, garlic, and cheese mix creates a great flavor.
Each tender cooks fast, in just 4-5 minutes. This makes them perfect for busy nights or parties. They are easy to make and delicious to eat.
These chicken tenders are great as an appetizer or main dish. They are fun to eat and can be paired with many sauces and sides. This makes them even more appealing.
Why Choose Homemade Chicken Tenders?
Making homemade chicken tenders is great. You can pick your favorite flavors. This way, you and your family can enjoy crispy chicken tenders together.
Homemade chicken is also healthier. You use fresh, good ingredients. And you bake them, not fry, to cut down on bad fats.
Cooking together is fun. Everyone can help with the chicken, marinade, or breading. It’s a way to bond and enjoy a tasty meal together.
| Benefit | Details |
|---|---|
| Customizable Flavors | Choose spices and marinades according to personal tastes. |
| Healthier Option | Oven-baking reduces fat content compared to frying. |
| Family Bonding | Involving family members in cooking strengthens relationships. |
| Convenience | Minimal mess and chaos in the kitchen streamline dinner prep. |
Essential Ingredients for Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders
Want to make a dish that tastes amazing? Knowing the key ingredients for chicken tenders is important. Lemon garlic parmesan chicken tenders mix tangy flavors with crunchy textures. They’re a hit with families. Here’s what you need for this tasty garlic chicken dish.
Chicken Tenders
Begin with 28 ounces of boneless, skinless chicken tenders. This amount is great for marinating and breading. It makes sure each tender is juicy and full of flavor. The tender texture and ability to soak up the marinade make these perfect for a yummy parmesan chicken recipe.
Marinade Ingredients
For a tasty marinade, get these ingredients:
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon cracked pepper
This marinade brings out a burst of flavor. It makes your garlic chicken tenders taste even better.
Breading Ingredients
To get that perfect crunch, mix these:
- 1 cup of Panko breadcrumbs
- ½ cup of regular breadcrumbs (garlic or Italian seasoning optional)
- ¼ cup of parmesan cheese
- Spices such as paprika and garlic powder
This mix makes your chicken tenders crunchy and irresistible. Add your favorite dipping sauce for the best meal ever!
How to Prepare the Marinade
To make a tasty citrus marinade, I mix the ingredients in a big bowl. I use one egg, ¼ cup of olive oil, lemon juice, parsley, and garlic. I add salt and pepper to finish it off.
After making the marinade, I coat the chicken tenders in it. I make sure they are all covered. Letting them sit for 30 minutes is best. But, even 5 minutes can add a lot of flavor.
Here’s a quick guide on making the marinade:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Egg | 1 |
| Olive Oil | ¼ cup |
| Lemon Juice | Juice from 1 lemon |
| Fresh Parsley | To taste |
| Minced Garlic | To taste |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon |
| Pepper | To taste |
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders
Making homemade chicken tenders is easy and fun. Each step makes sure every bite is full of flavor. Here’s how to do it:
Preparing the Chicken
Begin with 1 1/4 pounds of fresh chicken tenders. Clean them well before marinating. Let the chicken soak in the marinade for at least 30 minutes.
If you marinate longer, just cover and chill until cooking time. This makes your chicken even more delicious.
Coating the Chicken
In another bowl, mix 1 cup of panko breadcrumbs, 2/3 cup of Parmesan cheese, 3 teaspoons of garlic, 1 teaspoon of dried basil, and 1/4 teaspoon of paprika. This mix is great for coating your chicken.
Dip the marinated chicken in this mix, pressing gently. Then, place the coated tenders on a greased baking sheet. This step makes your chicken crispy.
How to Bake Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders
To make tasty baked chicken tenders, first, heat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Then, grease a baking sheet with oil or spray. This makes the chicken not stick and cook evenly.
Put the breaded chicken tenders on the sheet. Make sure they have space to breathe. Bake them for 10 minutes first.
Then, flip them over. Bake for another 5 to 10 minutes. They should be golden brown and hot inside.
If you want them crispy, broil them for 2 to 3 minutes. This adds a crunchy top. It makes the chicken tender and flavorful, without frying.
These steps make a great meal for any time. Enjoy the easy and tasty oven-fried chicken tenders. They are healthier and just as delicious.
Cooking Tips for Perfectly Crispy Chicken Tenders
To get the best crispy chicken tenders, start with a few key tips. Spray the coated chicken tenders with cooking spray before baking. This helps them get a golden-brown color without frying.
It’s also important to space the tenders on the baking sheet. This lets hot air get around each piece. This way, they cook evenly and get crispy.
Here’s a quick overview of some critical cooking tips:
- Use a convection oven if possible to reduce cooking time by about 5-10 minutes.
- Always ensure the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Consider double-breading the chicken for extra crunch, using a layer of flour, followed by eggs and breadcrumbs.
Easy chicken tenders can be prepped ahead for a busy week. Cooked tenders can be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days or frozen uncooked for up to a month. Baking from frozen is quick and keeps the taste and texture good.
| Cook Time | Storage Time | Baking Temperature |
|---|---|---|
| 30 minutes at 400°F | 3-4 days in the fridge or 1 month in the freezer | 425°F for frozen tenders, 20-25 minutes |
Serving Suggestions for Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders
When you make these tasty chicken tenders, adding the right sides makes the meal better. Here are some ideas for dips and sides that go well with the lemon garlic parmesan taste.
Pairing Sauces
Adding dipping sauces can make the chicken tenders even tastier. Try these:
- Honey Mustard Sauce: Mix whole egg mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and honey for a creamy, tangy dip.
- Lemon-Garlic Sauce: Use the leftover marinade for more flavor.
- Ranch Dressing: A favorite among kids.
- BBQ Sauce: Sweet and smoky, it’s a great match.
Side Dishes
Adding yummy sides to lemon garlic parmesan chicken tenders makes the meal complete. Here are some kid-friendly choices:
- Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: A healthier option than regular fries.
- Fresh Vegetable Sticks: Carrots, celery, or bell peppers add crunch and nutrients.
- Mixed Green Salad: Adds freshness and can be dressed lightly for more flavor.
With these ideas, your lemon garlic parmesan chicken tenders will be a hit. Enjoy mixing flavors that everyone will love!
Nutritional Information for Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders
Nutritional information is key when I cook chicken tenders. A serving of Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders has about 474 calories. It also has 14 grams of fat and 40 grams of carbs. With 45 grams of protein, these tenders are a great choice for those who want to enjoy food without giving up on their diet.
This dish is also packed with vitamins and minerals. Each serving has 1101 IU of Vitamin A and 11 mg of Vitamin C. The sodium is 1106 mg, which is important for staying healthy.
The following table sums up the essential components of the nutritional information:
| Nutritional Component | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 474 kcal |
| Protein | 45 g |
| Fat | 14 g |
| Carbohydrates | 40 g |
| Cholesterol | 199 mg |
| Sodium | 1106 mg |
| Vitamin A | 1101 IU |
| Vitamin C | 11 mg |
Knowing about chicken tenders nutrition helps me make better choices. This dish is perfect for a balanced meal. It tastes great with different sides and sauces, and it’s good for you too.
Variations to Try with Chicken Tenders
Trying new chicken tenders variations is fun. I like to add special seasonings like smoked paprika for extra flavor. Herbs like thyme or rosemary make the dish smell and taste amazing.
For a spicy twist, I add crushed red pepper flakes to the breadcrumbs. This makes the chicken tenders exciting and tasty. You can also use this method for fish or pork. This way, everyone gets to enjoy a tasty meal.
Here are some ideas to inspire your next cooking adventure:
- Change the base coating to include whole wheat panko for a healthier twist.
- Try a gluten-free breadcrumb option if dietary restrictions are a concern.
- Mix in parmesan with different cheeses like cheddar or mozzarella for a unique taste.
- Experiment with citrus flavors by adding lime or orange zest to the marinade.
Remember, the most important thing is to have fun. Try new things and make chicken tenders your own. You’ll discover new flavors and enjoy every bite!
| Variation | Main Change | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Smoked Paprika Chicken Tenders | Incorporate smoked paprika | Adds a smoky flavor that compliments the chicken. |
| Spicy Pepper Chicken Tenders | Add crushed red pepper flakes | Perfect for those who enjoy a kick. |
| Herb Infused Chicken Tenders | Add thyme or rosemary | Brings aromatic qualities to the dish. |
| Cheesy Tenders | Mix in different cheeses | Creates a rich and indulgent coating. |
Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Tenders
Many of us wonder about chicken tenders. One big question is how to get them crispy. The answer is the double-dredging method.
This method coats the chicken in flour, then in milk, and again in flour. It makes the chicken crunchy and tasty.
People also ask about storing and reheating chicken tenders. I store them in a sealed container in the fridge for 3-4 days. You can freeze them for up to 6 months.
To reheat, I use the oven. It keeps them crispy. The microwave can make them soggy.
Cooking chicken tenders safely is key. Make sure they reach 165°F. This way, they stay juicy and tender.
