Description

Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders are crispy, flavorful, and easy to make. Baked or air-fried for a healthier option, these tenders combine zesty lemon, garlic, and Parmesan for an irresistible taste. Perfect as an appetizer or main dish!

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken: 1 lb chicken tenders
Breading:
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Wet Ingredients:
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon milk
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
For Baking/Air Frying:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter

Garnish:
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Fresh parsley (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven or Air Fryer

Oven: Preheat to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Air Fryer: Preheat to 375°F (190°C).

Step 2: Prepare the Breading

In a shallow bowl, combine panko, Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
In another bowl, whisk together egg, milk, lemon juice, and lemon zest.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Dip each chicken tender into the egg mixture, ensuring full coverage.
Press into the breadcrumb mixture, coating both sides well.

Step 4: Bake or Air Fry

Oven: Place tenders on a baking sheet, drizzle or brush with oil/butter, and bake for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown (internal temp 165°F/74°C).
Air Fryer: Arrange in a single layer, lightly spray with oil, and air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway.

Step 5: Serve

Sprinkle with minced garlic and parsley.
Serve with dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or marinara.

Notes

Spicy: Add ½ teaspoon cayenne or red pepper flakes.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free panko.
Dairy-Free: Omit Parmesan or use a dairy-free alternative.

Extra Crispy: Double coat tenders with the egg and breadcrumb process.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 18-20 minutes (oven) / 10-12 minutes (air fryer)
Category: Main Course, Appetizer
Method: Baking, Air-Frying
Cuisine: American

Keywords: Lemon Garlic Chicken, Parmesan Chicken Tenders, Crispy Chicken, Air Fryer Chicken, Healthy Chicken Recipe