Description
Crispy, juicy, and packed with flavor, these Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders are a game-changer! They’re coated in a delicious mix of parmesan cheese, garlic, and zesty lemon, then baked or air-fried to golden perfection. Whether you serve them as an appetizer, snack, or main dish, they’re guaranteed to be a hit with the whole family!
Subscribe to our newsletter for more easy and tasty recipes!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb chicken tenders (or boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into strips)
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (for extra crispiness)
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- 2 eggs (for coating)
- 1 tablespoon milk
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter (for brushing or spraying)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
- For baking: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- For air frying: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: Set Up the Breading Station
- In one bowl, whisk together eggs and milk.
- In a second bowl, mix flour, salt, black pepper, and paprika.
- In a third bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and lemon zest.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
- Dredge each chicken tender in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
- Dip into the egg mixture, making sure it’s fully coated.
- Press into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring an even coat.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
-
For baking:
- Place chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet.
- Lightly brush or spray with olive oil or melted butter.
- Bake for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
-
For air frying:
- Arrange chicken in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- Lightly spray with olive oil.
- Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway, until crispy and cooked through.
Step 5: Add the Lemon Garlic Finishing Touch
- Toss the cooked tenders with lemon juice and fresh parsley.
- Sprinkle with extra parmesan cheese, if desired.
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!
- Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or marinara.
- Pair with fries, coleslaw, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Notes
Use Panko Breadcrumbs – They give the crispiest coating!
Don’t Skip the Lemon Zest – It adds a bright, fresh flavor.
Air Fry for Extra Crispiness – The air fryer makes them extra crunchy without extra oil.
Let Them Rest for a Minute – This helps keep them crispy before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Cuisine: American