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Tender strips of chicken coated in a crispy, golden layer of seasoned breadcrumbs and Parmesan create a dish that's both comforting and elegant. These baked chicken tenders offer the perfect balance of lemony brightness and savory garlic, making them a go-to recipe that elevates the humble chicken tender to new heights.
Last week, I served these at my daughter's birthday dinner, and even the pickiest eaters asked for seconds. The combination of familiar comfort food with elevated flavors won over both kids and adults alike.
Essential Ingredients
- Chicken tenders: Choose fresh, evenly sized pieces for consistent cooking.
- Panko breadcrumbs: Their larger size creates the crunchiest coating.
- Fresh Parmesan: Pre-grated won't give you the same flavor or texture.
- Fresh lemon juice: Bottled juice lacks the bright flavor you need.
- Fresh garlic: Minced yourself for the strongest flavor impact.
- Quality olive oil: Helps create a golden, crispy coating.
- Fresh parsley: Adds color and fresh herb flavor.
Creating Your Perfect Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders
- Marinade Magic:
- Whisk together egg, olive oil, and fresh lemon juice until well combined. Add minced garlic, ensuring it's evenly distributed. Fresh parsley goes in last - rough chopping releases more flavor than fine cutting. Let chicken bathe in this mixture for at least 5 minutes, though 30 minutes gives even better results.
- Coating Creation:
- Mix your Panko and regular breadcrumbs in a shallow dish. The combination gives you the perfect texture - Panko for crunch, regular breadcrumbs for even coating. Add Parmesan, paprika, and seasonings, using your fingers to blend thoroughly. This prevents clumping and ensures even distribution.
- Perfect Coating Technique:
- Use one hand for wet ingredients and one for dry to avoid breading your fingers. Let excess marinade drip off each tender before coating. Press breadcrumbs gently but firmly onto each piece - this helps create an even crust that won't fall off during baking.
- Baking Process:
- Arrange tenders on your prepared baking sheet with space between each piece. A light spray of oil helps achieve golden-brown perfection. Flip halfway through cooking using tongs, not a fork - piercing lets juices escape.
- Final Touches:
- Watch carefully during the last few minutes, especially if broiling. You want golden brown, not burnt. Let rest for 3-5 minutes after baking - this helps the coating set and keeps the chicken juicy.
Growing up, my mother always said good breading is an art. She taught me to use one hand for wet and one for dry ingredients - a tip that transformed my breading game forever.
Temperature Tips
Let marinated chicken sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before coating. This helps it cook more evenly and achieve better browning.
Make-Ahead Options
Prepare the breadcrumb mixture up to two days ahead. You can also marinate the chicken overnight for deeper flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Create a DIY dipping sauce bar with ranch, honey mustard, and marinara. These tenders also make fantastic sliders on mini brioche buns.
Storage Secrets
If you need to store leftovers, place them on a wire rack in the fridge - this prevents the bottom from getting soggy.
Professional Chef Tips
- Season each layer - both the marinade and coating.
- Check temperature at the thickest part - 165°F is perfect.
- Let the sheet pan heat in the oven before adding tenders.
These chicken tenders prove that simple ingredients, handled with care, can create something truly special. They've become our family's go-to for everything from quick weeknight dinners to casual entertaining.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I make these ahead of time?
- Best served fresh, but you can prep the breading and marinade ahead. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- → How do I keep them crispy?
- Don't skip the oil spray before baking, and broil for the last few minutes. Serve immediately for maximum crispiness.
- → Can I use chicken breasts instead?
- Yes, slice chicken breasts into tender-sized strips. They may need a few extra minutes of cooking time.
- → What dipping sauces work well?
- Try marinara sauce, ranch dressing, honey mustard, or garlic aioli.
- → Can I freeze these chicken tenders?
- Yes, freeze after baking. Reheat in a 375°F oven until heated through and crispy again.