Hello, food lovers! 🥰 Are you on the lookout for a simple, yet utterly delicious chicken recipe that will win the hearts of both kids and adults alike? Look no further because these Crispy Lemon Parmesan Oven-Fried Chicken Tenders are exactly what you need! 🍋💛 With a blend of zesty lemon, rich Parmesan, and perfectly crispy coating, these tenders are the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Trust me, one bite, and you’ll want to add this to your weekly rotation! 😋
Introduction: Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you’re craving something flavorful, comforting, and unbelievably easy to make, then you’re in for a treat. This Crispy Lemon Parmesan Oven-Fried Chicken Tenders recipe blends the freshness of lemon zest and juice with the deep savory notes of Parmesan, resulting in a dish that’s crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with flavor. 🌟
Inspired by classic American oven-fried chicken, this dish offers a healthier twist while keeping all the crunch and taste. And the best part? These chicken tenders bake to golden perfection in the oven, so you don’t have to worry about deep frying. Whether you’re a fan of traditional crispy chicken or love to experiment with new flavors, this recipe will definitely make its way into your family favorites. 🤩
Explore More Oven-Fried Recipes Here!
Ingredients for Crispy Lemon Parmesan Oven-Fried Chicken Tenders
To make this tasty recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1/2 cup of milk 🥛 (any type will do, but whole milk works best for richness)
- 1 large egg 🥚 (beaten)
- 3 tablespoons of lemon juice 🍋 (freshly squeezed for the best flavor)
- 1 teaspoon of lemon zest 🍋 (adds a burst of freshness)
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced 🧄
- Salt and pepper to taste 🧂
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips 🐔
- 3 tablespoons of melted coconut oil 🥥 (you can substitute with olive oil if desired)
- 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese 🧀
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs 🍞 (for that extra crunch)
- 2 tablespoons minced fresh parsley, plus more for garnishing 🌿
Optional Substitutions:
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- For dairy-free, use a plant-based milk alternative and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
Check Out Gluten-Free Cooking Tips Here!
How to Make Crispy Lemon Parmesan Oven-Fried Chicken Tenders – Step by Step
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a large bowl, whisk together the milk, beaten egg, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Once combined, place the chicken strips into the mixture, ensuring each piece is fully submerged. Tip: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 45 minutes for maximum flavor!
Step 2: Make the Coating
In a separate shallow bowl, mix the Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, minced parsley, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This breadcrumb mixture will give your chicken tenders their signature crunch!
Step 3: Bread the Chicken
Remove the marinated chicken strips and dredge each one in the breadcrumb mixture. Make sure to press gently to help the coating stick evenly to all sides.
Step 4: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C). Place the melted coconut oil on a large baking sheet and put it in the oven for about 3-4 minutes until hot.
Step 5: Bake the Chicken
Carefully place the breaded chicken strips onto the hot, oiled baking sheet. Bake for 12 minutes, then flip each piece and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 160°F).
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Remove from the oven, squeeze a bit of fresh lemon juice over the chicken, sprinkle with extra parsley, and serve hot. Enjoy your Crispy Lemon Parmesan Oven-Fried Chicken Tenders with your favorite dipping sauce or a side of roasted veggies. 🍽️
Helpful Tips for Crispy Lemon Parmesan Oven-Fried Chicken Tenders
- Use Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs give a lighter, crispier texture than regular breadcrumbs. You can find these at most grocery stores.
- Don’t Skip the Marination: Marinating the chicken in lemon and garlic helps to tenderize it and infuse more flavor.
- Flip Carefully: When flipping the tenders halfway through, use a spatula to avoid disturbing the breading.
Cooking Tips for the Best Crispy Lemon Parmesan Oven-Fried Chicken Tenders
- Oven Temperature Matters: Ensure the oven is properly preheated. A hot oven helps the coating to crisp up quickly, sealing in the juices.
- Coconut Oil vs. Olive Oil: Coconut oil has a higher smoke point and provides a richer flavor, but olive oil works well if that’s what you have.
- Keep the Breadcrumbs Crisp: If you find that the breading isn’t as crispy as you like, you can lightly spray the tenders with cooking oil before baking.
Serving Suggestions for Crispy Lemon Parmesan Oven-Fried Chicken Tenders
Pair these chicken tenders with a fresh garden salad, creamy coleslaw, or even classic mashed potatoes. 🍗🥗 They also go great with a side of lemon aioli or a tangy honey mustard dipping sauce.
For beverages, a light lemonade or iced tea perfectly complements the zesty flavors of the chicken. 🍋🧊
Explore More Serving Ideas Here!
Nutritional Information
Healthy Crispy Lemon Parmesan Chicken Tenders:
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Protein: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and depend on specific ingredients used.
Storage and Leftovers for Crispy Lemon Parmesan Oven-Fried Chicken Tenders
If you have leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake in a 350°F oven for 10-12 minutes until crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as it will make the coating soggy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Crispy Lemon Parmesan Chicken Tenders
- Can I make this recipe gluten-free? Yes, simply swap the panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Absolutely! Just adjust the baking time as thighs take a bit longer to cook through.
- How can I add more flavor? Add some Italian seasoning or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture.
- What dipping sauces go best with this? Try lemon aioli, honey mustard, or a classic marinara sauce!
Related Recipes for Chicken Lovers
Check out these recipes from Optimal Recipes:
- Ultimate Cowboy Casserole Cornbread: A hearty and satisfying dish perfect for weeknight dinners.
- Chicken Jerusalem Recipe: A gourmet twist on a classic chicken dish.
Conclusion
There you have it—a simple, tasty, and oh-so-crispy recipe for Crispy Lemon Parmesan Oven-Fried Chicken Tenders that’s perfect for any occasion. 🍗 Give it a try, and don’t forget to let us know how it turned out in the comments below. Happy cooking! 😍
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Crispy Lemon Parmesan Chicken Tenders – Easy Oven Recipe
Description
Hello, food lovers! 🥰 Are you on the lookout for a simple, yet utterly delicious chicken recipe that will win the hearts of both kids and adults alike? Look no further because these Crispy Lemon Parmesan Oven-Fried Chicken Tenders are exactly what you need! 🍋💛 With a blend of zesty lemon, rich Parmesan, and perfectly crispy coating, these tenders are the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Trust me, one bite, and you’ll want to add this to your weekly rotation! 😋
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup of milk 🥛 (any type will do, but whole milk works best for richness)
- 1 large egg 🥚 (beaten)
- 3 tablespoons of lemon juice 🍋 (freshly squeezed for the best flavor)
- 1 teaspoon of lemon zest 🍋 (adds a burst of freshness)
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced 🧄
- Salt and pepper to taste 🧂
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips 🐔
- 3 tablespoons of melted coconut oil 🥥 (you can substitute with olive oil if desired)
- 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese 🧀
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs 🍞 (for that extra crunch)
- 2 tablespoons minced fresh parsley, plus more for garnishing 🌿
Optional Substitutions:
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- For dairy-free, use a plant-based milk alternative and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a large bowl, whisk together the milk, beaten egg, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Once combined, place the chicken strips into the mixture, ensuring each piece is fully submerged. Tip: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 45 minutes for maximum flavor!
Step 2: Make the Coating
In a separate shallow bowl, mix the Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, minced parsley, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This breadcrumb mixture will give your chicken tenders their signature crunch!
Step 3: Bread the Chicken
Remove the marinated chicken strips and dredge each one in the breadcrumb mixture. Make sure to press gently to help the coating stick evenly to all sides.
Step 4: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C). Place the melted coconut oil on a large baking sheet and put it in the oven for about 3-4 minutes until hot.
Step 5: Bake the Chicken
Carefully place the breaded chicken strips onto the hot, oiled baking sheet. Bake for 12 minutes, then flip each piece and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 160°F).
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Remove from the oven, squeeze a bit of fresh lemon juice over the chicken, sprinkle with extra parsley, and serve hot. Enjoy your Crispy Lemon Parmesan Oven-Fried Chicken Tenders with your favorite dipping sauce or a side of roasted veggies. 🍽️
Equipment
2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
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Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
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- Use Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs give a lighter, crispier texture than regular breadcrumbs. You can find these at most grocery stores.
- Don’t Skip the Marination: Marinating the chicken in lemon and garlic helps to tenderize it and infuse more flavor.
- Flip Carefully: When flipping the tenders halfway through, use a spatula to avoid disturbing the breading.
