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.
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.
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.
Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels. Set aside.
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.
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.
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).
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.
Servings 5
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
These values are approximate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients and brands used. Always check your ingredient labels for precise nutrition details.