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:
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.