Zesty Lemon Butter Chicken Tenders Recipe

These chicken tenders are incredibly tender and flavorful, coated in a bright, zesty lemon butter sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a fancy appetizer.

Ingredients:

  • For the Chicken:
    • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken tenders
    • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
    • 1/2 teaspoon salt
    • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
    • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
    • 1/4 teaspoon paprika
    • 1 large egg, beaten  
    • 1/4 cup milk
    • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko preferred)
    • 1/4 cup parmesan cheese (grated)
    • 1/4 cup vegetable oil (for cooking)
  • For the Lemon Butter Sauce:
    • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
    • 2 cloves garlic, minced
    • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
    • 2 tablespoons lemon zest
    • 1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup)
    • 1/4 cup chicken broth
    • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Chicken:
    • In a shallow dish, combine the flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
    • In a separate shallow dish, whisk together the egg and milk.
    • In a third shallow dish, combine breadcrumbs and parmesan cheese.
    • Dip each chicken tender in the flour mixture, then the egg mixture, and finally the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated.
  2. Cook the Chicken:
    • Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
    • Carefully place the coated chicken tenders in the skillet, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
    • Cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
    • Remove the cooked chicken tenders from the skillet and set them aside on a plate lined with paper towels.
  3. Make the Lemon Butter Sauce:
    • In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
    • Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
    • Pour in the lemon juice, lemon zest, honey, and chicken broth.
    • Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until slightly thickened.
  4. Combine and Serve:
    • Add the cooked chicken tenders back into the skillet with the lemon butter sauce.
    • Toss the chicken tenders to coat them evenly with the sauce.
    • Garnish with fresh chopped parsley.
    • Serve immediately.

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