Description
This Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders recipe features tender chicken breast strips marinated in a zesty lemon and garlic mixture, coated with a crunchy blend of Parmesan cheese and panko breadcrumbs, then baked to golden perfection. It’s a flavorful, crispy, and easy-to-make dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Marinade
- 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Coating
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
Finishing
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Prepare the chicken strips: Cut the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into strips about one inch wide to create uniform chicken tenders that cook evenly.
- Marinate the chicken: In a bowl, mix salt, pepper, and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Toss the chicken strips in this mixture to coat well, allowing the flavors to penetrate the meat.
- Prepare the coating mixture: In another bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and minced fresh garlic. This mixture provides the flavorful and crispy crust for the chicken.
- Coat the chicken strips: Dip each marinated chicken strip into the breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture until fully coated, pressing gently so the coating adheres well.
- Arrange and drizzle with oil: Place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Drizzle them lightly with extra virgin olive oil to help achieve a golden, crispy texture while baking.
- Bake the tenders: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden brown and crispy. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken breasts with chicken tenders for convenience.
- For extra crispiness, flip the chicken strips halfway through baking.
- Add paprika or Italian seasoning to the breadcrumb mixture for more flavor.
- Serve with a side of lemon wedges or your favorite dipping sauce.
- Use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free.
