Crispy Lemon Pepper Chicken Tenders
Hey there, friend! Let’s talk about something that’ll make your taste buds do a happy dance: Crispy Lemon Pepper Chicken Tenders .
Whether you’re feeding picky kids or hosting game night with friends, this dish is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
The combo of tangy lemon zest, bold black pepper, and a golden-crisp coating?
Pure magic. Plus, it’s so easy to whip up that you’ll feel like a kitchen rockstar even on your busiest weeknights.
How to Make It
Note: This is an overview. See recipe card below this post for ingredient quantities and full instructions.
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients because, trust me, no one likes scrambling mid-cook! Pat those chicken tenders dry with paper towels—it’s the secret to getting them extra crispy. Then, zest and juice a fresh lemon; its bright citrus notes will shine through every bite.
Step 2: Season and Coat
In one bowl, mix flour with lemon zest, cracked black pepper, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt. In another, whisk together eggs for dipping. Finally, set out some panko breadcrumbs for that irresistible crunch. Dip each tender into the flour mixture, then the egg wash, and finally coat generously with panko. Pro tip: Press the crumbs onto the chicken firmly to help them stick better during frying.
Step 3: Fry Until Golden
Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat until shimmering—not smoking! Gently lay the coated tenders in the pan, leaving space between each piece so they crisp evenly. Cook for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Keep an eye on them; we want golden perfection, not burnt bits!
Step 4: Serve with Style
Once done, transfer the tenders to a plate lined with paper towels to soak up any excess oil. Sprinkle a little more lemon zest and freshly ground pepper for good measure (because why not?). Serve hot alongside a creamy dipping sauce or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for that final zing.
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Lemon Zest: Bottled lemon juice just doesn’t cut it here—fresh zest adds unmatched brightness.
- Don’t Skip the Panko: Regular breadcrumbs won’t give you the same level of crunch. Trust me on this one.
- Double Fry for Extra Crispiness: If you’re feeling fancy, fry once, let cool slightly, then fry again for restaurant-quality texture.
- Make Ahead: You can prep and coat the tenders ahead of time, then store them in the fridge until ready to cook.
- Air Fry Option: For a lighter version, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes to retain crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it makes them soggy.
- Freeze unbaked tenders on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Bake straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Crispy Lemon Pepper Chicken Tenders
Description
These Crispy Lemon Pepper Chicken Tenders are bursting with bold flavors and have a satisfying crunch that’ll keep you coming back for more. Perfectly seasoned with lemon zest and cracked pepper, these tenders are quick, easy, and oh-so-delicious.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Prep the Chicken:
Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels. Set aside.
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Prepare Coating Stations:
In a shallow bowl, combine flour, garlic powder, lemon zest, black pepper, and salt. In a second bowl, beat the eggs. Place the panko breadcrumbs in a third bowl.
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Coat the Tenders:
Dredge each chicken tender in the flour mixture, shaking off excess. Dip into the beaten eggs, ensuring full coverage. Finally, press into the panko crumbs, making sure they adhere well.
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Fry the Tenders:
Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the coated tenders in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C).
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Finish and Serve:
Remove the tenders from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Garnish with additional lemon zest and black pepper if desired. Serve immediately with lemon wedges and your favorite dipping sauce.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 5
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 320kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 12g19%
- Total Carbohydrate 28g10%
- Dietary Fiber 1g4%
- Sugars 2g
- Protein 24g48%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- Use fresh lemon zest for the best flavor.
- Adjust black pepper to taste depending on how spicy you like it.
- Double the batch and freeze unbaked tenders for future meals.
These values are approximate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients and brands used. Always check your ingredient labels for precise nutrition details.
