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In the world of comfort food, few dishes can rival the appeal of crispy chicken tenders. These beloved strips of chicken are not only a hit with children but also a delightful indulgence for adults. When you elevate the classic chicken tender with vibrant flavors, you create an unforgettable dish that tantalizes the taste buds. Enter the Zesty Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders recipe—a perfect marriage of crispy texture and zesty flavor that transforms a familiar favorite into a culinary delight.

Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders

Discover the deliciousness of Zesty Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders! This recipe elevates the classic chicken tender with a crispy, golden coating infused with zesty lemon, savory garlic, and rich Parmesan cheese. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, these tenders are juicy on the inside and satisfyingly crunchy on the outside. Follow our preparation and cooking tips to create a dish that will impress everyone at your table. Enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and make mealtime memorable!
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Ingredients
  

1 pound chicken tenders

1/2 cup all-purpose flour

2 large eggs

1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko for extra crunch)

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 cloves garlic, minced

Zest of 1 lemon

2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

Salt and pepper to taste

1/4 cup parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Olive oil spray (or cooking oil for frying)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) if you prefer baking the tenders rather than frying.

    Prepare the Coating: In a shallow bowl, mix together the flour, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and dried oregano. In another shallow bowl, whisk the eggs until well combined. In a third shallow bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and lemon zest together.

      Coat the Chicken: Dip each chicken tender first into the flour mixture, ensuring it's well-coated. Shake off any excess flour, then dip into the egg, allowing the excess to drip off. Finally, coat the chicken in the breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture, pressing gently to adhere.

        Choose Your Cooking Method:

          - Baking: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the coated tenders on the sheet and lightly spray with olive oil. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through, flipping halfway through for even cooking.

            - Frying: In a large skillet over medium heat, add enough oil to cover the bottom. Fry the chicken tenders in batches, about 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through. Drain on paper towels.

              Add Lemon Juice: Once cooked, drizzle fresh lemon juice over the chicken tenders while they are still hot.

                Serve: Arrange the chicken tenders on a serving platter, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and serve with your favorite dipping sauce (like ranch or marinara).

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 30 minutes | 4 servings