Description
Crispy, juicy, and flavorful, Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders are a healthier, crowd-pleasing option baked or air-fried to perfection. Perfect for weeknight dinners or as an appetizer, this versatile recipe combines zesty lemon, aromatic garlic, and rich Parmesan for a gourmet twist.
Ingredients
- Chicken Tenders: 1 lb (or chicken breast cut into strips)
- Lemon Juice: 2 tbsp
- Lemon Zest: 1 tbsp
- Garlic, minced: 2 cloves
- Parmesan Cheese, grated: ½ cup
- Breadcrumbs (panko or regular): 1 cup
- All-Purpose Flour: ½ cup
- Eggs: 2, beaten
- Salt: 1 tsp, divided
- Black Pepper: ½ tsp, divided
- Italian Seasoning: 1 tsp
- Olive Oil Spray: As needed
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken:
Pat chicken tenders dry and season with ½ tsp salt, ¼ tsp pepper, and Italian seasoning. Set aside. - Set Up the Breading Station:
- Bowl 1: Combine flour with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Bowl 2: Whisk eggs with minced garlic and lemon juice.
- Bowl 3: Mix breadcrumbs with Parmesan, lemon zest, and Italian seasoning.
- Bread the Chicken:
- Dredge chicken in the flour mixture, coating evenly.
- Dip in the egg mixture, letting excess drip off.
- Coat in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to adhere.
- Prepare for Cooking:
- For Baking: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place breaded chicken on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spray lightly with olive oil.
- For Air-Frying: Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Arrange chicken in a single layer in the basket and spray lightly with olive oil.
- Cook the Chicken:
- Baking: Bake for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and cooked through.
- Air-Frying: Air fry for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway, until crispy and fully cooked.
- Serve:
Garnish with extra Parmesan and parsley, if desired. Serve hot with dipping sauce or lemon wedges.
Notes
- Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze cooked tenders on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes or air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes.
- Tips:
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Spray tenders with olive oil to maintain crispiness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Appetizer
- Method: Baking, Air-Frying
- Cuisine: American, Fusion
Keywords: Lemon Garlic Chicken Tenders Parmesan Crusted Chicken Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe Air-Fried Chicken Tenders Healthy Chicken Recipes