Let me tell you about a dish that never fails to impress: lemon garlic parmesan chicken tenders! These tenders are not just any chicken strips; they’re juicy, flavorful bites that are coated in a zesty lemon-garlic mixture and baked to perfection. The moment they come out of the oven, your kitchen will be filled with this incredible aroma that just pulls you in. I love making these for weeknight dinners because they’re super quick to whip up but taste like a five-star meal. Plus, they’re gluten-free, which makes them an ideal choice for everyone at the table. Trust me, once you try them, they’ll become a go-to recipe in your house, too!
Ingredients List
- 1 lb chicken tenders
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
How to Prepare Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders
Alright, let’s dive into making these delicious lemon garlic parmesan chicken tenders! I promise, it’s super straightforward and oh-so-rewarding. First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is crucial because you want those tenders to bake beautifully and get that perfect golden brown color.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a medium-sized bowl, combine the freshly juiced lemon, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Give it a good stir to make sure everything’s well mixed. This zesty mixture is what brings out the incredible flavors in the chicken!
- Next, take your chicken tenders and coat them in the lemon-garlic mixture. Don’t be shy here—make sure each piece is fully covered! You want that flavor to seep into every bite.
- Now, sprinkle the grated parmesan cheese generously over the chicken. I like to really pile it on, because who can resist that cheesy goodness?
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup (trust me, it helps!). Then, place your coated chicken tenders on the sheet, making sure they’re spaced out so they bake evenly.
- It’s time to bake! Pop them in the oven and let them bake for about 20-25 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when they’re golden brown and cooked through. The scent will be absolutely irresistible!
- Once they’re done, serve them warm and watch your family dig in!
And there you have it! Easy, flavorful, and oh-so-satisfying lemon garlic parmesan chicken tenders, ready to be enjoyed!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you’re looking for a delicious meal that checks all the boxes, these lemon garlic parmesan chicken tenders are just the ticket! Here’s why they’re a favorite in my kitchen:
- Quick and easy to prepare—perfect for busy weeknights!
- Packed with flavor from the zesty lemon and garlic, making every bite a delight.
- Gluten-free, so everyone can enjoy without worry.
- Healthy and wholesome, with lean chicken and minimal added fats.
- Bakes up beautifully, giving you that crispy exterior while keeping the inside juicy.
- Versatile—pair them with your favorite sides or toss them in a salad for a light meal.
Honestly, what’s not to love? These tenders are sure to become a staple in your home, just like they have in mine!
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure you nail these lemon garlic parmesan chicken tenders! Here are some pro tips to help you achieve the best results:
- Marinate for Extra Flavor: If you have a little extra time, let the chicken marinate in that lemon-garlic mixture for at least 30 minutes before baking. This will really amp up the flavor!
- Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Sheet: Give those tenders some space! If they’re too close together, they won’t get that nice crispy texture.
- Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety and juiciness.
- Customize the Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the salt and pepper to your liking. You can even add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick!
- Let Them Rest: After baking, let the chicken sit for a couple of minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, giving you even juicier bites.
With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating the most mouthwatering chicken tenders ever!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk about the nutrition side of things! These lemon garlic parmesan chicken tenders not only taste amazing, but they’re also a great option if you’re keeping an eye on your dietary needs. Here’s an estimated breakdown per serving:
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 0g
- Protein: 35g
Keep in mind, these values can vary based on the specific brands of ingredients you use and any adjustments you make to the recipe. But overall, I’d say you’re looking at a hearty meal that’s both satisfying and guilt-free! Enjoy knowing you’re indulging in something that’s not only delicious but nutritious, too!
FAQ Section
Got questions about these lemon garlic parmesan chicken tenders? I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries I hear:
Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts work just as well, but you may want to cut them into strips to ensure they cook evenly and stay juicy.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the chicken in advance! Just coat them in the lemon-garlic mixture and store them in the fridge for up to a day before baking. Just remember to let them come to room temperature before popping them in the oven.
What can I serve with lemon garlic parmesan chicken tenders?
These tenders are versatile! Pair them with a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or even some fluffy rice for a complete meal. They also taste fantastic in wraps or on top of pasta!
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze them! Just let them cool completely, then store in an airtight container. They’ll keep well for about 2-3 months. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.
Are these chicken tenders spicy?
Not at all! They’re more about zesty and savory flavors from the lemon and garlic. If you’re looking for a bit of heat, feel free to add some red pepper flakes to the mix!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve got these delicious lemon garlic parmesan chicken tenders ready to go, let’s talk about what to serve alongside them! I love pairing these tenders with a crisp, refreshing salad. A simple arugula salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette complements the flavors beautifully. If you’re in the mood for something heartier, roasted vegetables like asparagus or zucchini drizzled with olive oil and a sprinkle of salt make a fantastic side dish.
Another great option is serving them with fluffy quinoa or a side of garlic mashed potatoes to soak up all that zesty goodness. And if you want to keep it light, a side of steamed broccoli or sautéed green beans adds a lovely fresh touch to your plate. Trust me, you can’t go wrong with any of these pairings!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Alright, let’s talk about how to keep those delicious lemon garlic parmesan chicken tenders fresh for later! Once you’ve enjoyed your meal, make sure to let any leftovers cool down completely. Then, transfer them to an airtight container and pop them in the fridge. They’ll stay good for about 3-4 days—perfect for lunch or a quick dinner later in the week!
When you’re ready to enjoy them again, the best way to reheat is in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), place the tenders on a baking sheet, and heat them for about 10-15 minutes, or until they’re warmed through. This method keeps that crispy texture intact. If you’re in a hurry, you can use the microwave, but be careful—microwave heating can make them a bit soggy. So, for the ultimate experience, stick with the oven when you can! Enjoy your tasty leftovers!
Imprimer
Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders: 5 Flavorful Facts
- Temps Total: 35 minutes
- Rendement: 4 servings 1x
- Alimentation: Sans Gluten
Description
Lemon garlic parmesan chicken tenders are juicy and flavorful. They are coated in a zesty lemon-garlic mixture and baked to perfection.
Ingrédients
- 1 lb chicken tenders
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, mix lemon juice, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Coat the chicken tenders in the lemon-garlic mixture.
- Sprinkle parmesan cheese over the chicken.
- Place the chicken on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
- Serve warm.
Notes
- Adjust seasoning according to your taste.
- Serve with a side of vegetables or salad.
- Temps De Préparation: 10 minutes
- Temps De Cuisson: 25 minutes
- Catégorie: Main Dish
- Méthode: Baking
- Cuisine: American
La Nutrition
- Taille D'Une Portion: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sucre: 0g
- De Sodium: 300mg
- La graisse: 10g
- Graisses Saturées: 3g
- Les Graisses Insaturées: 7g
- Les Gras Trans: 0g
- Les hydrates de carbone: 2g
- La fibre: 0g
- La protéine: 35g
- Le taux de cholestérol: 90mg
Mots-clés: lemon garlic parmesan chicken tenders
